Hey friends!
Parks and recreation centers are too important to our health for them to be shut down. They provide safe places for the physical activity we need. Whether your local parks are in trouble or not, you can help ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable and fun places to play.
Every single voice counts.
Here are 3 easy ways you can make a difference today!
- Contact your state Park and Recreation Department to find out if there are any local groups working to save your parks and rec centers. Click "Read More" to see a sample script.
- Write letters to your elected officials and tell them your parks are important. Click "Read More" to see a sample letter.
- Write letters to the editor of your newspaper to inspire others to raise their voices too. Click "Read More" to see a sample letter.
Thanks!
Kayla
Member of the empowerME Movement
SCRIPT
Sometimes there is nothing better than a phone call when you’re trying to bring attention to an issue. Here is how you can start the conversation with your Parks and Recreation Department. (Psst…this also works if you want to call your congressman, senator or even the President! And elected officials track all calls placed to them.)
“Hello, my name is [your name]. I’m calling because I believe that public parks and recreation centers are important to our community’s health, particularly in fighting the startling rates of childhood obesity. I know that this is a tough time for budgets, but I urge you to save and support our parks.”
Optional: Provide an example of your favorite local park, pool or recreation center and how it helps you stay healthy.
Be sure to say “Thank You”. They might ask for your phone number, address or e-mail address to follow-up with you.
LETTER TO ELECTED OFFICIAL
Dear [Name of Elected Official]
July is National Recreation and Parks month, and I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate it than by asking you to make sure our parks and recreation centers stay open. I know budgets are tight right now, but this issue is too important to ignore. State and local parks and recreation facilities make communities desirable places to live, work, play and visit, thereby contributing to the ongoing economic vitality of communities throughout our country.
- Nearly 1 in 3 of my peers is overweight or obese, and is looking at a future filled with chronic illness like diabetes and heart disease. Programming provided through park and recreation agencies combats the national obesity epidemic through the development of healthy lifestyles, strong minds and fit bodies.
- Park and recreation activities also help to deter crime and help youth develop into contributing members of our communities.
- Parks, greenways and open spaces are critical components to protecting and preserving our natural environment.
- Optional: Provide an example of your favorite local park, pool or recreation center and how it helps you stay healthy.
LETTER TO EDITOR
Park and recreation activities also help to deter crime and help youth develop into contributing members of our community.
[Your Name]
