About Us

The Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) is a national organization dedicated to realizing the full potential of recreation and parks as a major contributor to community health and vibrancy.

Our members include the 13 provincial and territorial recreation and parks associations and their extensive networks of service providers in over 90% of Canadian communities.

Download the full 2025 Pre-budget Submission (English)

CPRA is a VOICE

We are the national voice for parks and recreation, advancing the collective interests of our members through leadership in advocacy, policy and research.

CPRA is a COMMUNITY

We are a national network dedicated to the wellbeing of people, communities and the natural and built environments.

CPRA is a RESOURCE

We are a contributor of knowledge and opportunities that enhance and grow the sector.

Our Mission

CPRA exists to build healthy communities and enhance the quality of life and environments for all Canadians through collaboration with our members and partners.

To this end, we will:

  • Be a national voice for recreation and parks
  • Build and nurture partnerships
  • Advocate for recreation and parks as essential to individual, family and community health and well-being
  • Communicate and promote the values and benefits of parks and recreation
  • Respond to the diverse and changing needs of members
  • Provide educational opportunities

Our Vision

CPRA is an alliance of all provincial and territorial recreation and parks associations across Canada. Collectively we envision a Canada in which everyone is engaged in meaningful, accessible recreation experiences that foster:

  • Individual wellbeing
  • Community wellbeing
  • The wellbeing of our natural and built environments

We work with a variety of other national organizations to further the recreation and parks agenda across Canada and around the world.

Our Values

Recreation and parks are a public good and an essential service; the benefits of recreation are numerous and cannot be escaped.

Inclusion and equity are integral; recreation benefits all and should be accessible to all.

Sustainability is necessary, including sustainability from a financial and governance perspective.

Lifelong participation; recreation and parks are relevant to people of all ages.

Our Strategic Outlook

Our Strategic Outlook outlines the strategic foundations of the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA). These foundations are rooted in the Framework for Recreation In Canada. Strategic actions are organized under three overarching intentions of the organization.

Learn More