The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the California Park and Recreation Society (CPRS), both commemorate the month of July as National Parks and Recreation Month. Since 1985, this annual designation has been an opportunity for agencies and community organizations to emphasize the importance and benefits of parks and recreation and how it has become woven into the fabric of our everyday lives. Parks and recreation touches more than 300 million people in this country. From the largest cities to the most rural communities, public parks and recreation agencies around the country are united in their mission to improve health and well-being, provide safe and enjoyable recreation opportunities, better the environment, and provide their respective communities with a higher quality of living.
The City of Rocklin has been enriched and made stronger through countless hours of dedication by volunteers, service groups, staff, organizations and members of the community in support of Rocklin Parks.
The combined efforts of each of these individuals and organizations have helped to establish the value that parks and recreation brings in making the Rocklin community a safe and enjoyable place to live, work and play. The City of Rocklin has made a substantial investment to support recreation programs and to create quality parks and open space areas for the Rocklin community. Through the Parks & Recreation Department, the City has provided a comprehensive parks and recreation system, with both passive and active features that address the needs of all residents, as well as income generating tourism elements for visitors. Each year, Parks & Recreation staff provide hours of organized recreation programming, while our extensive system of parks and open spaces facilities provide space for public to engage in self-directed recreational activities, such as walking, biking, and personal exercise.
During “Parks and Recreation Month”, Parks & Recreation Staff would like to highlight the economic, health and conservation benefits of the parks within our community. The importance of these benefits have been at the forefront of our community during this difficult pandemic and will continue to provide a safe and healthy step forward as our community continues to navigate these difficult times.
The proposed Resolution supports the notion that:
- The City should continue to maintain and provide adequate parks and recreation facilities to assure the high quality character and livability of the Rocklin Community;
- Passive open spaces remain a valuable component of a livable city;
- Youth programs are a major part of life for many families. Parks and recreation facilities and programs provide a safe refuge and a place to play, which helps reduce at-risk behaviors. Youth participation in parks and recreation programs has been proven repeatedly to reduce the likelihood of youth becoming victims of violent crime, smoking, drinking alcohol, or using illegal substances/drugs;
- Excellent parks and recreation programs promote healthy lifestyles and social interactivity for all ages, which help to maintain community cohesion and pride;
- The City should continue to promote recreation and sport destination activities in Rocklin;
- The City should continue to promote and provide recreational and social opportunities to all populations.