Program Contact:
Tara L. Fitzpatrick-Navarro, CTRS, CPRP, AFO
National Recreation and Park Association
(703) 858-2147
tfitzpatrick@nrpa.org

Greensboro Parks & Recreation Department Earns National Accreditation

Greensboro, NC (October 17, 2006) – On October 11, the Greensboro Parks & Recreation Department became one of only sixty-six agencies in the country to have received national accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). This distinguished accomplishment was announced in Seattle, WA at the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Annual Congress.

The process of accreditation is extensive and took several years to accomplish. After the initial application, the agency completed a detailed self-assessment report, followed by a visit to the City of Greensboro by a team of experienced park and recreation professionals. Finally, a review was conducted by CAPRA and accreditation was formally conferred by the Commission on October 11.

National accreditation requires park and recreation agencies to respond to 155 standards, representing elements of effective and efficient park and recreation operations. To become accredited, agencies must demonstrate their ability to meet 36 fundamental standards and 85 percent of all other standards.

Director Bonnie Kuester attended the Commission hearing on the Greensboro Parks & Recreation Department and was notified that the Department had received accreditation. The Commission is comprised of representatives from the National Recreation and Park Association, the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials, the International City/County Managers Association, the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation, the Armed Forces Recreation Society, and the Council of State Executive Directors.

For further information on the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies, contact:
Tara L. Fitzpatrick-Navarro, CTRS, CPRP, AFO
National Recreation and Park Association
22377 Belmont Ridge Road
Ashburn, VA 20148
Phone: (703) 858-2147
Fax: (703) 858-0794
Email: tfitzpatrick@nrpa.org