The vocational competencies for recreation and parks practitioners are somewhat unique.

Rather than having the specialization of a brain surgeon, the recreation and parks practitioner should instead be likened to a family doctor who has an extensive but broader base of general knowledge and skills.

Consequently, by building on work done by others in the profession and tapping into the diverse experience of the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association's Professional Development and Education Committee, this page includes what is viewed as the core vocational competencies required for today’s recreation and parks practitioner.

For more information on this initiative, please contact Deb Comfort, Chair of APRA's Professional Development and Education Committee.

Core Competencies for Recreation and Parks Practitioners

Ideally, recreation and parks practitioners will be able to reliably demonstrate the ability to deliver the following core competencies:

1. Leisure Education

Educate individuals and community stakeholders regarding the value and benefits of recreation and parks

2. Programs and Events

Plan, implement, and evaluate programs and events that maximize the impact of the benefits of recreation and parks

3. Community Development

Apply community development strategies for developing relationships and engaging citizens

4. Individual and Group Development

Facilitate growth and development among individuals and groups within a recreation and parks setting

5. Diversity

Apply the concept of diversity to the design and delivery of programs, special events, services, and facilities

6. Staff and Volunteer Supervision

Contribute to the effective management and development of staff and volunteers

7. Research and Planning

Contribute to the design and implementation of appropriate research and planning strategies

8. Resource Development

Generate revenue and resources for programs, special events, services, and facilities

9. Administration

Apply appropriate business administrative skills

10. Marketing and Communication

Analyze, organize, and implement marketing and communication strategies

11. Recreation Facilities, Parks and Open Spaces

Contribute to the safe and effective management of recreation and parks venues

12. Personal and Professional Growth

Apply practices for ongoing personal and professional growth & development

Advanced Competencies for Recreation and Parks Practitioners Serving in a Community Leadership Capacity

Ideally, recreation and parks practitioners serving in a mid or senior management position will be able to reliably demonstrate the ability to deliver the following core competencies:

1. Agent of Change

Understands, demonstrates and exerts influence by building trusting relationships

2. Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Practices ongoing personal and professional growth and development

3. Big Picture Thinking

Utilizes a proactive system thinking/holistic approach

4. Catalyst for Citizen Responsibility

Places a priority on engaging and cultivating community ownership and responsibility

5. Quality of Life Advocacy

Has the ability to work proactively to promote recreation, parks, sports, arts, culture and heritage as services that deliver essential benefits

6. Community Development Planning

Applies community development planning strategies