Advancing Parks and Recreation Through Research and Advocacy
Your voice, amplified. At PRO, we're committed to ensuring that parks and recreation remain a priority for provincial decision-makers. Through policy responses and stakeholder partnerships, we highlight the essential role that parks and recreation plays in advancing community well-being. Driven by our members' passion, we work together to advocate for a future where every Ontarian has access to vibrant communities, sustainable environments, and personal health.
Rooted in the Past, Reaching for the Future:
2026 Ontario Pre-Budget Submission
This plan lays the foundation for the future of Ontario's parks and recreation sector. Our recommendations include:
Investing in Critical Community Infrastructure
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Annual continuance of the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund of $1 billion annually for 10 years.
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Expand Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) Grant, and the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant, with a dedicated stream for parks and recreation.
Empowering Sport and Recreation Participation
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Invest in the Inclusive Grassroots Recreation Program to improve recreation access and affordability in rural, remote, and northern communities.
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Implement quality assurance measures in recreation programming administered by provincial entities.
Transforming Education
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Review parks and recreation education curriculum and standards at high school and post-secondary levels.
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Develop career discovery and early-career education pathways.
Beyond the Boundaries:
The Untold Value of Parks & Recreation Infrastructure
Beyond the Boundaries is a two part series that explores the untold value of parks and recreation infrastructure. Part 1: Infrastructure for Community Wellness examines why investment in parks and recreation infrastructure is prudent economic, health, and social policy. Part 2: Infrastructure for Community Resilience illustrates how parks and recreation infrastructure supports communities during times of need, especially in relation to public health services, extreme weather events, and crisis response.
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Ministry Engagement Priorities
We collaborate with government through a multi-ministerial approach, reflecting the dynamic and interdisciplinary nature of our sector. Read below to learn about our advocacy priorities with each ministry.
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Media Releases
We speak up on the issues that matter most. Explore our public statements on key topics affecting parks and recreation.
Research and Resources
We've developed and complied tools and research that will elevate your advocacy game. Browse the resources below.
Legislation Library
We've made it easier to stay current by compiling government regulations and legislation affecting the parks and recreation sector. Learn more about current legislation and how it applies to your organization.
June is Recreation and Parks Month
June is Recreation and Parks Month (JRPM) is a movement that promotes the benefits of recreation and parks for physical, social, and environmental health. Communities across Ontario have embraced JRPM as a way to promote local programs and events, parks and facilities that are available for all citizens to enjoy.
Access to park and recreation is a fundamental human need that helps foster personal health, strong communities, and social inclusion. JRPM celebrates Ontario’s spectacular parks and recreation services and raises awareness for the role they play as a pathway to individual, community, and environmental well-being.
Members receive a JRPM toolkit to help celebrate in their communities. The toolkit is available in early May.