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Recreating Recreation
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Say “recreation” and most of today’s adults envision basketballs bouncing, shouts echoing in the gym, kids in camp, aerobics in a studio and other snapshots from their memories. In our center, I constantly hear remarks such as, “I didn’t know you did all this … I thought you just had sports here” or “I thought you were just a senior center.” Some people consider recreation departments a municipal entity that exists only for a specific segment of the population, such as low-income families or those living near a center.
This tunnel vision of parks and recreation is causing many to miss out on some of the best bargains and opportunities available.In reality, facilities can provide programs for a wide range of participants. As society changes and grows, so must recreation centers. The world is moving faster leading people to expect a high value in exchange for their time and money. People also want instant gratification. Being healthy and active is important to the mind as well as the body and programs that have multiple benefits are a better bargain, too. Accommodating all ages is another benefit so that mom can attend a class while the kids are in another activity and grandma is in her program.
Continuing education courses are often available at the local rec. Computers, art, and photography frequently draw the attention of older adults as well as those that want to expand their minds. Dance classes are great for the kids with traditional jazz, tap and ballet; however adults are learning line dancing, ballroom dance and taking shag lessons. Yoga, Pilates Tai Chi and belly dancing are also holding strong leads in merging fun and fitness. Some locations are able to provide culinary classes, woodworking, ceramics and pottery making.The bonus with parks and recreation is the dollars saved. Going to gyms, fitness centers and other outlets for physical activities are going to cost a great deal more than your local rec center. The majority of these for-profit facilities require a membership application fee in addition to being locked into a monthly fee for a year or two minimum. Public parks and recreation departments are non-profit and their budgets are a matter of public record. If you can’t see where your money is going, then it’s probably going to someone’s pocket.
Finding classes and traveling from studio to studio for various activities or classes costs a lot in gas, time and energy when everything you need may be available under one roof. Joining a neighborhood ball team or independent sports association costs more because equipment purchases may be up to individuals. Your recreation centers usually have equipment to loan and it meets required safety standards. Also, question independent associations about their insurance and qualifications required of their staff or volunteers. Recreation departments should, and generally do, depend on their participants to help define what programs are offered. People visiting a center should make suggestions and ask for what they want if it’s not already provided. At our center, we keep a list of requests and those interested. After a few people make a request, we make every effort to set up the program and publicize it. In an unstable economy, recreation can be a great way to relieve stress, and centers remove much of the burden of expense. Saving dollars is definitely high-scoring regardless of a person’s income level.
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