Parks and recreation organizations do a lot for the communities that they’re in. They not only build and establish facilities, amenities and improve quality of life, they maintain and develop them. Most people go to their local parks, community centers, and the like without knowing anything about their parks and recreation organizations.

"Your local parks and recreation groups can have a major impact on your city."( Image by Mike Cattell, used under CC.)

Here are just a few of the many reasons why you should get to know your local parks and recreation organizations:

Have Your Say

By knowing and staying up to date with your local parks and rec organizations, you’ll know when you can give your input on what they’re doing. Do you think a facility could improve, with some adjustments? Want additional courses or resources? If you get to know your local organization, you could have a better chance of being heard, along with knowing when voting or other initiatives take place.

Community

Community is starting to become a buzzword for a reason. We’ve talked about the benefits of creating community for your organization or business. Getting to know the people behind the things you enjoy is a huge opportunity to create that community: something that is beneficial on many levels. Just as a chef should know where his food comes from, a city’s citizens should get to know who’s behind all of their amenities.

Be the First to Know

Being connected with your local parks and rec organizations ensures you’re the first to know about all of their developments. With the health benefits of being active, especially outdoors, knowing the best spots for you to go can be very valuable. Keeping your activities fresh will keep you engaged and interested in your active lifestyle.

Insider Knowledge

That hard to find hiking spot that’s the best kept secret in your city? You could be the one to know about it. There are so many great amenities in many cities and the most popular ones aren’t always the best. Your local parks and recreation organizations know the lay of land (quite literally). Use their insider knowledge to help craft a more unique, deeper connection with your city, parks, facilities and other amenities.

Get Involved

Volunteer or work at your local parks and recreation group, to help improve your city. Going to a park or recreation facility where you know you had something to do with its creation and/or development is a great feeling. Plus, it’s a great story to tell your friends or guests visiting the city.

What’s your favorite thing about your local parks and recreation groups? Let us know on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Google+ to stay up to date with all of your Xplor Recreation news.