Who We Are

Who We Are

The Alberta Recreation & Parks Association (ARPA) is a recognized leader of the recreation and parks sector. Established in 1950, we have continued to support our members by providing opportunities that enhance skills, knowledge and capacity in order to support the delivery of recreation and parks services. We do this by: 

  • Delivering a variety of programs that enhance the quality of life of Albertans
  • Providing education and professional development opportunities
  • Hosting key sector events
  • Sharing sector-based research, information, and tools to foster the growth of the recreation and parks sector

Recreation and parks are our passion. Our board members are trail blazers in the recreation and parks sector, our staff are passionate about enhancing the quality of life of Albertans, and our members are dedicated to offering recreation and parks services. Together, we are committed to ensuring Albertans use recreation and parks as essential resources for enhancing the well-being of individuals, communities and our natural and built environments. And most importantly, we have fun while doing it!

Our Purpose

To collaboratively support our members and partners to (re) create healthy citizens, communities and environments, enhancing the wellbeing of all Albertans.

Our Vision

Albertans recognize recreation and parks as essential for enhancing the wellbeing of individuals, communities and our natural and built environments.

Our Approach

We believe the community development approach is foundational to achieving the full benefits of recreation and parks. This long–term value based process aims to create sustainable change by engaging community members and local governments, collaborating with other organizations and sectors, building upon existing community resources and strengths, and focusing on creating sustainable change founded on social justice, equality and inclusion.

The Alberta Recreation & Parks Association would like to acknowledge the First Nations, the Métis, and all of the people across Alberta who share a history and a deep connection with this land. We dedicate ourselves to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.