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PARKS AND RECREATION . .. • The Benefits are Endless . . .TM The Pursuit of Happiness . . . ""'O" . A i ) . . . an Inalienable Right. ‘1,),, M0' No one really thinks it's a bad thing to have fun,do they? In fact most people agree that fun, however one defines it, is essential to happiness.And happiness,as proclaimed right up front in the Declaration of Independence, is one of our basic inalienable rights. Over two hundred years ago when our forefathers guaranteed our"right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness"those words gave every citizen a new expectation that happiness was for everyone, not just the rich, famous, or privileged class. Historical Perspective Historically, public parks and recreation programs have been a critical part of our heritage locally, regionally, nationally and even globally. Born out of need, park and recreation programs constantly evolved due to changing cultural, societal and demographic demands and desires. Why then, are park and recreation budgets, staff and programs the first to be cut? Beyond Fun and Games Often people are unaware of how vital recreation and leisure are to the quality of their lives. While fun, happiness and play are vital to growth and development, the expanded role of public parks and recreation is more critical than ever. Whether we know it or not, programs, services, events and opportunities offered by local, state and national park and recreation agencies positively impact many areas of our lives and society as a whole. Four Major Benefit Areas III American and Canadian organizations have identified four major Benefit Categories: •Individual •Economic •Community •Environmental Within each category are dozens of specific benefits which are substantiated by facts, field studies, testimonials and research findings. Here are some of the few ways that parks and recreation works for you,your neighbors,your kids and your communities . . . Individual Benefits Community Benefits • • Improves Academic Performance • • •. ■ Reduces Adult and Juvenile Crime Ilir • Better Health in Later Years ■Keeps Kids Off The Streets • Immediate Stress Reduction •Builds Strong Communities • Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence ■Connects Families• • Reduces Stress f I Environmental Economic Benefits • Preserves Plant and Animal Wildlife • Increases Property Values •Controls Air,Water and Soil Quality •Reduces Health Care and Insurance Costs •Provides Accessible Places to Enjoy Nature •Reduces Employee Absenteeism ft • Increases Productivity • Boosts Tourism Everyone Benefits Everyone in the world has somehow benefited by public park and recreation programs at some time in their lives—directly or indirectly. The time has come to make the connection between past experiences and today's success, yesterday's activities and 0 tomorrow's physical and mental wellness and today's taxpayer support and safe communities for our children and grandchildren. So, whether an avid participant or occasional observer, enjoy the benefits. It's everyone's right! To find out more about how you and your community can pursue happiness and experience the benefits of parks and recre- ation, contact your local Park and Recreation Department or the National Recreation and Park Association at (703) 820-4940.