Framework Questions and Answers
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+ What is it?
The Framework is the guiding document for public recreation providers in Canada.
The Framework for Recreation in Canada was jointly developed by the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) and the Interprovincial Sport and Recreation Council (IRSC); it presents a renewed definition and vision of recreation as well as confirms common values, principles, and goals. The Framework was endorsed in February 2015 by Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation, and is supported by the Government of Canada.
+ Who is it for?
Although the Framework is primarily written for and by the recreation and parks practitioners, its implementation requires collaboration across a broad range of stakeholders. Key partners for recreation include departments and not-for-profit organizations at all levels, and the private sector. These include stakeholders in sport, physical activity, health, urban planning, Aboriginal affairs, infrastructure development, rural development, natural resources and conservation, arts and culture, social development, tourism, justice, heritage, child development and active aging.
Four particular areas of recreation providers are already using the Framework to advance recreation in Canada: municipalities, provincial and territorial governments, provincial and territorial parks and recreation associations, and post-secondary institutions.
Municipalities are utilizing the Framework to ensure their recreation programs, facilities, spaces, and community associations are aligning with the five goals.
Provincial and Territorial Governments
Provincial and Territorial Governments are utilizing the Framework to ensure their programs, grants and policies are using the Framework as a lens to align with the five goals.
Provincial and Territorial Parks and Recreation Associations
Provincial and Territorial Parks and Recreation Associations are utilizing the Framework to ensure their members are aligning with the five goals.
Post-Secondary Institutions are utilizing the Framework to ensure that the sector’s future leaders are aware of, and strive to align with the five goals.
+ How is it being used?
The Framework is being used to guide and advance efforts put forth by recreation providers.
With a philosophical foundation that is rooted in public good, inclusion and equity, and sustainability, recreation providers are utilizing the Framework to guide programming decisions, support public investment, educate future leaders, and much more. The document itself is supplemented with communication and implementation tools to encourage the Framework’s use.
+ How do I get it?
+ Who is overseeing implementation?
The Implementation and Monitoring Working Group (IMWG) has been established to track and monitor implementation of the Framework across Canada, to provide advice on tools and supports for the sector to assist with implementation and alignment, and to provide national leadership with support on a broad range of issues.
The IMWG is comprised of members from CPRA, ISRC, provincial and territorial governments, provincial and territorial parks and recreation associations, municipalities, post-secondary institutions, Aboriginal leaders, and aligned sector representatives.
+ What is recreation?
A Renewed Definition of Recreation
Recreation is the experience that results from freely chosen participation in physical, social, intellectual, creative and spiritual pursuits that enhance individual and community wellbeing.
The recreation field includes stakeholders and providers from the not-for-profit, private and public sectors; including volunteers, paid staff, community groups, educators, researchers, organizations and governments that work collectively to enhance individual and community wellbeing through recreation.
+ What is the Framework's vision?
We envision a Canada in which everyone is engaged in meaningful, accessible recreation experiences that foster: individual wellbeing, community wellbeing, and the wellbeing of our natural and built environments.
The values that guide the Framework are: public good, inclusion and equity, sustainability, and lifelong participation.
Principles of Operation
The principals of operation underlying the Framework are: outcome-driven, quality and relevance, evidence-based, partnerships, and innovation.
+ What are the Framework's goals?
Goal 1: Active Living
- Foster active living through physical recreation.
- Recreation participation throughout the life course
- Physical literacy
- Reduce sedentary behaviours
Goal 2: Inclusion & Access
Increase access to recreation for populations that face constraints to participation.
- Equitable participation for all regardless of differences such as: socioeconomic status, age, culture, race, Aboriginal status, gender, ability, sexual orientation, or geographic location.
Goal 3: Connecting People & Nature
Help people connect to nature through recreation.
- Natural spaces and places are provided
- Comprehensive systems of parks are accessible
- Public awareness and education are promoted
- Negative impacts to the natural environment are minimized
Goal 4: Supportive Environments
Ensure the provision of supportive physical and social environments that encourage participation in recreation and help to build strong, caring communities.
- Essential spaces and places are provided
- Existing structures and spaces are being used for a variety of purposes
- Aging infrastructure is being renewed
- Active transportation is prevalent
- Partnerships are maximized
- Recreation education campaigns are established
- Assessment tools used to ensure accountability
- Community initiatives are aligned
Goal 5: Recreation Capacity
Ensure the continued growth and sustainability of the recreation field.
- Increase collaborative efforts among all levels of the recreation field
- Career development to attract and educate new leaders
- Support advanced education in recreation
- Provide development opportunities for organizations and individuals (professional and volunteer)
- Develop community leadership strategies
- Rejuvenate and update volunteer strategies
- Support knowledge development to increase research efforts, data availability, support materials, and the development of new/enhanced post-secondary program