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Office of Recreation and Park Resources University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Helping Build Healthy Communities

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3 combined images of kids swimming, kids playing soccer, and Joe Bannon kids on merry-go-round Two young girls running on sidewalk Brookside Bayou Park

three combined images of kids swimming, kids playing soccer, and Joe Bannon

Support the Joseph J. Bannon Directorship in Recreation and Park Resources

To commemorate his life-long commitment to expanding the importance of recreation and park administration, we are proud to share that the Joseph J. Bannon Directorship in Recreation and Park Resources fund has been established in the College of Applied Health Sciences.

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kids on merry-go-round

Office of Recreation & Park Resources

ORPR is the public engagement arm of the Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism at the University of Illinois. Our service goals are to:

  • Provide on-site consultation regarding community park and recreation issues.
  • Conduct applied research, community surveys and studies in public parks and recreation.
  • Provide education and training for practitioners, elected officials and residents.
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Two young girls running on sidewalk

Illinois Youth Sport Initiative

In September, youth sport providers from across the state participated in a two-day policy summit to discuss current trends in youth sport. The initiative is an ongoing effort to assist practitioners in learning about and developing the skills and resources needed to increase the diversity, attractiveness, and effectiveness of youth sport options in the state.

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Brookside Bayou Park

Brookside Bayou Park - Frankfort Square Park District

In the past, this wetland area was the unauthorized dumping ground for tires, pallets and more. Now this space is home to a restored wetland, walking path, community garden and outdoor exercise equipment.

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Support the Joseph J. Bannon Directorship in Recreation and Park Resources

To commemorate his life-long commitment to expanding the importance of recreation and park administration, we are proud to share that the Joseph J. Bannon Directorship in Recreation and Park Resources fund has been established in the College of Applied Health Sciences. Read more.

Leadership Academy

ORPR is proud to collaborate with the Illinois Park and Recreation Association in the establishment of a Leadership Academy. A certificate of completion will be presented to participants from the Recreation, Sport & Tourism Department of the University of Ilinois. Learn more.

Read more about the impact ORPR has had on parks and recreation in Illinois.