Parks and recreation is an essential part of a healthy community. It positively impacts health, crime prevention, the environment, the economy, and the quality of life. A benefit is anything that is for the good of a person or thing. There are many well-researched and quantifiable benefits of having parks and recreation in our community.

This information is a compilation of benefits statements and research information from the National Recreation and Parks Association, Illinois Association of Park Districts, Illinois Parks and Recreation Association, and the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association.

Personal Benefits

• Physical recreation and fitness activities contribute to a full and meaningful life
• Balance between work and play
• Life satisfaction
• Quality of life
• Personal development and growth
• Physical activity reduces the risk of stress-related disease and helps a person live longer

Social Benefits

• Connected families. Recreating together builds strong families, the foundation of a stronger community
• Supports youth, provides outlets for conflict resolution
• Reduces crime and delinquency. Recreation - or incarceration? We want kids in our courts - the basketball court, tennis court, volleyball court - not in the juvenile court system!
• Meaningful recreation activities help reduce the high cost of vandalism and criminal activity. It gives kids a safe place to go and channel their energy in positive directions.
• Integrated and accessible recreational services and facilities are critical to the quality of life for people with a disability and disadvantaged individuals.
• Recreational opportunities, facilities and beauty of the local environment are an essential foundation of community pride.
• Community recreation enhances ethnic and cultural understanding, harmony and tolerance.

Economic Benefits

• Pay now, or pay more later! Investment in parks and recreation as a preventative health service makes sense.
• Reduced health care costs and productive workforce
• Recreation, sports and fitness improves work performance, increases productivity, and decreases absenteeism and staff turnover.
• Parks and recreation services help motivate relocation and expansion in our community.
• Parks and recreation facilities are catalysts for tourism.
• Enhanced land and property values

Environmental Benefits

• Clean water, clean air
• Preserves wildlife
• Reduces pollution
• Protection of the eco system
• Provides places to enjoy nature's beauty
• Source of community pride
• Preservation of open space

These are just some of the ways the Rockford Park District benefits you, the community, and your neighbors.