How to do more with less

In this time of budget cuts and decreased finding for recreation, some community facilities are struggling. In this month's issue, we hope to give examples of how park and recreation departments can not only improve facilities, but also save a few dollars in the process.

For many communities, nothing makes more money than the area aquatic facility. But what happens when it stops being profitable and needs updating? Two writers discuss how to turn a low-performing pool from community crisis to community builder. Not only do the authors provide tips on how to turn a troubled pool around, but they've accomplished it themselves.

This issue is packed with stories of people doing more with less: read about how any park and recreation department can create a specialized volunteer coaching program, or how to start an inline hockey league for youth that will save families money.

Readers can also take a look at different ways to maximize facilities that may be having problems or showing its age. For example, should agencies pay a staff member to supervise a skatepark, or should those who play there be responsible for supervising themselves? Take a look at the article to help decide what policy your department should implement. If a department is looking for an economical and safe way to update a multi-level playground, staff members might want to read "Not Just Child's Play" to find some examples of what others did.

It's all here--articles that show how to do more with less, while still providing quality recreational opportunities for all.

Rachel Roberts

Editor, Parks & Recreation

COPYRIGHT 2004 National Recreation and Park Association
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group