1. Using the Benefits of Recreation to Create Effective Community Programs Presentation to Parks and Recreation Ontario March 2007 Brenda Librecz General Manager Toronto Parks, Forestry & Recreation

2. Agenda 1.Process Overview 2.Strategic Planning 3.A Living Document 4.Informs decision- making and service delivery 5.Questions & Answers

3. Benefits of Recreation Strategic Plan Pillars Staff, Stakeholders Public Politicians Community & Corporate Leaders Our Common Grounds 1.Environmental Stewardship 2.Child & Youth Development 3.Lifelong Active Living Decision-Making Service Delivery Process Overview Engagement

4. A Plan Takes Shape 15-year strategic plan 53 recommendations Identifies key targets in three strategic areas: Environmental Stewardship Child & Youth Development Lifelong Active Living

5. A Living Document Stay loyal in planning, budget and focus… and ensure shared ownership.

6. Report on progress Show the difference …

7. Deliver the goods that the public notice first.

8. Use it as a mechanism for public engagement and public ownership.

9. Connect into Council priorities & corporate objectives Community Safety

10. “We are responsible for our common grounds – the urban forest that enfolds us, the parks and public spaces that enliven us, the activities and skills that give our children their first thrills and triumphs.” Develop consistent messaging… Use it everyday

11. Decision-Making & Service Delivery A framework for decision-making & service delivery Ensures ownership of partners: staff, Council, community

12. Questions & Answers