Vision, Goals, Values

Vision

ORPR serves individuals, communities and organizations in the State of Illinois with education opportunities, services, and applied research concerning community parks and recreation.

ORPR together with Extension and other departments and components of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and partners from outside the University will evolve into an office that will be a national leader in the field of community parks and recreation.

Goals

1. ORPR conducts workshops and education programs for those interested in the planning, development, management and evaluation of parks and recreation.
2. ORPR will provide direct service and consultation to communities and organizations as resources allow.
3. ORPR will conduct statewide, regional and community surveys for a negotiated fee.
4. ORPR provides information and reports concerning parks and recreation.
5. ORPR conducts applied research and studies in the area of community parks and recreation.
6. ORPR will assist in translating research findings into professional practice, implications and recommendations.

Values

1. ORPR believes parks and recreation are essential elements of healthy communities and provide an improved quality of life for all individuals. Parks and recreation contribute to the physical, mental, social, environmental and economic health of people and communities.
2. ORPR believes all Illinois residents should have access to recreation and park services.
3. ORPR is committed to citizen service that is researched-based. ORPR translates research into practice to those engaged in providing community park and recreation services.
4. ORPR believes innovation is at the heart of a leading organization. We encourage new ideas and concepts and strive for unique and better ways to serve the public.
5. ORPR is committed to involving students as active participants in all aspects of our operation.
6. ORPR believes honesty is the best policy and we should treat people the way we would expect to be treated.
7. ORPR believes open and candid communication is a basic component of a successful and leading operation.
8. ORPR is committed to excellence in all aspects of what we do.
9. ORPR believes teamwork, cooperation, collaboration and partnerships are necessary for a successful unit. Therefore, we are committed to such efforts within UIUC at all levels and also externally with individuals and agencies in the public, private and non-profit sectors.