Program Description

  Countywide Programs

Countywide Programs offers essential and universally accessible recreation and leisure services to all residents across the region -- an indicator of a healthy, affordable, and welcoming community. Program staff generate partnerships with local small businesses and nonprofit organizations to activate key public and private spaces and to offer culturally responsive programs, activities, and services -- such as classes, performing arts, camps, sports, workshops, therapeutic recreation, inclusion services, and special events which provide a wide range of economic, health, and social benefits. Additionally, community outreach such as events and festivals provide a wide platform to bridge diverse groups of people, generate social networks, and create community cohesion. Countywide programs promote positive social capital through the provision of equal access to programs, which cultivates community ties through participating in programs and services. The benefits include public enjoyment and engagement; improved perception of community performance; economic well-being; quality recreation time with family and friends; strengthening social and familial bonds; improvement of mental and physical health thus reducing the impacts of chronic diseases; and measurable decreases in rates of crime and other detrimental activities thus making our communities safer.