To influence policy and persuade Members of Congress to act, advocates must present compelling information about the immense value of parks and recreation to local communities. Use the resources below to learn about our issues and communicate effectively with elected officials.

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)

• LWCF Overview 
• Sample OP-ED 
• Sample Letter for Locally Elected Officials to contact Senators 
• Sample Resolution for Local Governments 

Urban Parks and Livable Communities

• Urban Revitalization and Livable Communities Act Fact Sheet 
• Urban Park Summit Summary Report and White Paper 

Transportation

• Parks and Recreation: Essential Partners in Active Transportation 
• Federal Transportation Funding Fact Sheet 
• Report: How Federal Transportation Funding Benefits Parks and Recreation 

Children and Nature

• Children and Nature Fact Sheet 

Health, Wellness, and Physical Activity

• Healthy Communities Program Fact Sheet 

NRPA Official Comments and Written Testimony

• Testimony- FY2012 Interior Appropriations (House) 
• Official Comments on the Sustainable Planning Grants 
• Official Comments to the Task Force on Childhood Obesity 
• Testimony - FY2011 Labor, HHS, and Education Appropriations (Senate) 
• Testimony - FY2011 Labor, HHS, and Education Appropriations (House) 

Other Resources

• Funding Opportunities for Parks and Recreation 
• Analysis of President's FY12 Budget  
• Why Parks and Recreation are Essential Public Services 
• NRPA Position Statement on Inclusion 
• Park Advocate Handbook 
• Advocacy Training Module