October 17, 2014 - The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department has achieved reaccreditation by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). This notable accomplishment was announced at the Best of the Best Ceremony in Charlotte, North Carolina at the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) 2014 Congress and Exposition.
“The continued commitment to investing in our Parks is making a meaningful difference for residents and neighborhoods,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “To be recognized as a national leader in providing excellent Parks services is a tremendous honor. I’m encouraged by the unprecedented momentum we’re seeing in Fort Wayne, and I salute our entire Parks team for their efforts to enhance the quality of life that we enjoy in our City.”
The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department is one of only 135 park and recreation agencies in the country to currently hold national accreditation, and one of only 41 that have been accredited for 10 years or more. Fort Wayne is also the largest organization accredited in Indiana, with Bloomington, South Bend and Carmel achieving the distinction as well.
“The process of reaccreditation is extensive and the standards are ever changing, which is reflected in the low number of agencies that attain such a distinguished level of achievement,” said Parks and Recreation Director, Al Moll. “All of the Department’s employees should be proud of this accomplishment and commended for their continuous degree of excellence. And, as always, we’re extremely grateful for the support of the Mayor and the Park Board. ”
Every five years, an accredited agency must be thoroughly reviewed to ensure continued compliance with the accreditation standards that have been established by the Commission. These standards represent all areas of operation for park and recreation departments. National accreditation requires park and recreation agencies to respond to over 150 standards representing elements of effective and efficient operations.
If you would like more information about the accreditation process or CAPRA, visit www.nrpa.org/capra/.