During the transition from one year to the next, or one decade to the next, we are constantly reminded of the past, and what we can look forward to in the future. We often think to ourselves, “How will this year be better than the last?” We make New Year’s  resolutions as a means to “start-over”, but soon realize by mid-February that going to the gym every day, taking a walk each morning, or spending more time with our families may just need to be put off until next year. Or better yet, sometime in the “near” future. We don't always know how, but what we do today may impact each day of the future.

As we spend each end of the day, year, or decade looking back on the past, we realize that we do “know how”. Some of us have taken steps forward to make a positive impact, while others have taken steps backwards. There are still others who struggle to take any steps, wondering, “What can I do today that will impact the future?”

As park and recreation professionals, many of us have put countless hours into supporting the movement. Whether it is by planning programs, writing grants, or developing ways to increase participation, our late nights and long weekends do not go unnoticed. However, in thirty years from now, will you want to have been known solely for your love of the outdoors and affinity to nature? Do you only want to leave behind memories of kindness, generosity, and neighborly advice? What else can you do today that will impact the future?”

The National Recreation and Park Foundation’s primary focus is to provide long term funding in support of the park and recreation movement’s effort to improve people’s quality of life. More specifically, the Foundation will support research and public awareness of the economic, social and physical value of parks and recreation in creating healthy families and communities for all populations to include educating and reaching the underserved through the building of an endowment fund.

Since its inception over 2 years ago, the Foundation continues to raise endowment money to ensure the longevity of the movement but has also allocated a small percentage of resources for specific current year projects through grants to NRPA. It is through these grants that supporters will see their donations put to use. The Foundation has made commitments to initiatives that fit its purpose by supporting the National Summit on Environmental Stewardship, the Summit on the Value of Play and the current Parks Build Community initiative, which is to design, implement, and evaluate programs that promote health related to the recently renovated Marvin Gaye Park.

The opportunity to do something today that will impact your children, grand-children, and great grand-children tomorrow is here. Whether you are participating in the Foundation’s planned giving program, Corporate Donating opportunities, or other Individual Donating opportunities, all gift sizes are important as we seek to secure the highest level of participation possible. Please consider making a contribution to the National Recreational and Park Foundation. What is Your Park and Recreation Legacy?