Park and recreation agencies nationwide provide virtual health resources to communities during COVID-19 pandemic
Ashburn, Va. (May 28, 2020) — In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, a large majority (82 percent) of adults find virtual health resources valuable, according to a newly released National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) poll. Local park and recreation agencies are among the nation’s top providers of virtual health resources — offering a variety of remote activities that include:
- Physical Activity Classes
- Health and Safety Courses (First Aid/CPR)
- Health Literacy Classes (Healthy Cooking, Chronic Disease Prevention/Management)
- Academic Classes (STEM, Reading, Writing and Digital Learning)
Virtual health resources are most popular among parents and young adults, according to the recent poll. Ninety percent of Gen Z adults find these resources valuable, compared to only 75 percent of baby boomers. Eighty-nine percent of parents find virtual health resources valuable — especially those that relate to physical activity, health and safety, academics, arts and crafts, and leadership and workforce development (e.g., mentoring, career exploration and resume writing).
“People of all ages and abilities have had to find new and innovative ways to address their overall health and wellness during the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Kevin Roth, NRPA’s vice president of research, evaluation and technology. “One of the best ways to stay health conscious at any time is through local parks and recreation where there are countless, affordable options available in-person and online throughout the year.”
Park and recreation professionals nationwide are helping address many of the shortfalls people are experiencing as a result of the pandemic. This includes finding unique ways to deliver the lifesaving health and wellness benefits they provide. Many park and recreation facilities have had to temporarily shutter their doors in response to the outbreak, however, most parks and open spaces remain open. NRPA recognizes the positive impact these spaces have on people’s mental and physical health, and encourages the public to use them safely and responsibly, as outlined in this joint statement.
To view the interactive charts with the survey results, click here.
To view the full-size infographic, click here.
To learn more about NRPA, visit www.nrpa.org.
###
About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all people have access to parks and recreation for health, conservation and social equity. Through its network of 60,000 recreation and park professionals and advocates, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.