The Healthy Communities Partnership: Lanark, Leeds and Grenville has identified two recommended actions, for our communities, in each of the priority areas:
Rural Recreation Association Executive Committee
The main purpose of the Rural Recreation Association Executive Committee is to develop the structure for a non-profit recreation and physical activity association that serves Lanark, Leeds and Grenville and surrounding region. This association will work to facilitate planning, professional development, communication, and the sharing of resources between individuals and organizations involved in physical activity and recreation. The executive committee is also responsible for planning the annual Recreation Summit.
Economic Benefits of Rural Recreation and Leisure Services Report Release
The report 'Economic Benefits of Rural Recreation and Leisure Services' was commissioned by the Rural Recreation Association as a resource and advocacy tool for champions to communicate with municipalities, individuals, organizations and decision makers about the ‘grounded-in-research’ economic benefits of recreation. The report explores: capital infrastructure, human resource capacity, programs and services, as well as outdoor leisure recreation.
Almost 70% of Ontario’s municipalities have a population of 10,000 people or less. Local governments face growing pressure with respect to encouraging or maintaining quality of life, addressing social issues and ensuring recreation and leisure services and supports remain a fundamental service for all residents, businesses and visitors.
In Ontario (2008), 98% of survey respondents believe that recreation and parks are essential services that benefit the whole community. - Harper
Decision Makers are encouraged to review the document for more detailed information and research as well as a listing of good practices and direct quotes from locals related to the economic benefits of recreation and leisure services.
The number of Ontario residents who put leisure before work has risen 24% since 1996. Local parks are essential to the good life, and Ontario residents are clueing in. - Harper
Just as infrastructure and taxes hold a competitive advantage for industrial development, quality of place and lifestyle amenities are competitive advantages to encourage local economic development.
Who should use this report?
Recreation Staff, non-profit organizations who offer recreation services, anyone who wishes to advance the importance and services of recreation. The report can be used as a resource and advocacy tool for champions to communicate with municipalities, individuals, organizations and decision makers about the ‘grounded-in-research’ economic benefits of rural recreation.
YouTube videos of participants in the report process
Dr. Paula Stewart
Dr. Paula Stewart, Medical Officer of Health for the Leeds Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit speaks to us about health, economy and the environment.
Alan Medcalf
Alan Medcalf, City of Brockville Cycling Committee speaks to us about Brockville’s Rotary Park, community park services for leisure and recreation, the paved pump track, and attracting and retaining families.
Tom Baumgartner
Tom Baumgartner, Rural Recreation Association Executive member from Perth, Ontario speaks to us about Conlon Farm Recreation Complex, recreation importance to the people and the community, and cost sharing agreements.
Kim Goodman
Kim Goodman, Recreation Coordinator for the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands, Rural Recreation Association Executive member speaks to us about Landon Bay Pool and service agreements.
Don Ross
Don Ross, Vice-chair Frontenac Arch Biosphere Network speaks to us about Landon Bay Park, Lookout Trail, sustainable communities and environment, covering fifteen municipalities, trails, experiences of the landscape, and requiring municipal involvement.
Glenn Arthur
Glenn Arthur, Director of Recreation Services for the Town of Arnprior speaks to us about special events, tournaments, and economic benefits to the community as a whole.
Kevin Lee
Kevin Lee, Professor of the Recreation and Leisure Services program at Algonquin College speaks to us about the college and programs.
Mark Guy
Mark Guy, Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture for the Municipality of North Grenville, Rural Recreation Association Executive member speaks to us about Settlers’ Trail, trail strategy, connecting community by trails, and the growth of the community.
Barb Tobin
Barb Tobin, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of North Grenville speaks to us about trails, building community to attract families, economic development, volunteers, green and growing.
Sue Dunfield
Sue Dunfield, Manager of Community and Leisure Services for the Township of Rideau Lakes, and Rural Recreation Association Executive member speaks to us about the economic benefits of Recreation and Leisure Services Report summary, waterways, the Rideau Canal, and youth friendly designation.
Niki McKernan
Niki McKernan, Senior Planner for the Town of Smiths Falls speaks to us about why recreation is considered in all plans, valuing unstructured play and interaction with nature, cost sharing facilities and programs with neighbouring municipalities.
RRA Events
See what is up and coming and also view presentations from past events.
