What is the Forward Together Summit?
The Forward Together Summit brings the recreation and parks sector together to chart the course of our future. It is the national moment where a distributed sector becomes one voice, and where alignment turns into coordinated action.
The Summit is a key moment in the evolution of the Framework for Recreation and Parks in Canada, the guiding strategy and shared agenda for our sector. Phase 1 (2024) was dedicated to consultation, research, and development, engaging more than 2,500 recreation and parks professionals and aligned partners across every province and territory. Phase 2 is focused on putting the Framework into action through the development of a shared agenda and exploration of how to apply the Collective Impact model to advance it.
Central to Phase 2 is the Forward Together Summit, which includes plenary sessions, discussion groups, networking opportunities, and sessions aligned to key themes that have emerged in the discussions around the renewal of the Framework for Recreation and Parks including infrastructure, workforce development, belonging, and crisis preparedness and response.
Together, we will reinforce a shared identity, elevate the sector's voice with federal policy makers, and spotlight the vital role of recreation and parks in advancing public health, climate resilience, equity, inclusion, and Reconciliation, all while creating meaningful opportunities for networking and professional development.
Register for the Forward Together Summit
The Forward Together Summit is hosted by the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) and dozens of partners across Canada.
Pre-Summit Briefing
A detailed agenda will be shared with all registered delegates ahead of the virtual Pre-Summit Briefing on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at noon ET. We encourage everyone to join. This is an opportunity to get informed, ask any questions you may have, and feel comfortable and prepared before arriving in Ottawa.
Partner With Us
Interested in becoming a partner for the Forward Together Summit? Check out the resource below.
Discussion Groups
All registered delegates will receive an invitation to register for discussion groups. Stay tuned.
Pre-Summit Reading
We want you to get the most out of the Summit. That’s why we’ve prepared a Pre-Summit Reading List for you to review in advance. It includes the topics we’ll be covering and provides a foundation for the discussions and sessions ahead. We strongly encourage you to explore these resources before attending to ensure the best possible Summit experience.
Collective Impact at a Glance Collective Impact Principles of Practice
Read our 2025-2028 Strategic Outlook
Read Our 2026 Pre-Budget Submission
What to Bring
We want to ensure you are prepared for this event. We know it can be a lot, and it’s easy to overlook the little things. To help, we’ve put together a packing checklist for your convenience:
The Essentials:
- Business casual and/or association-branded attire: For all official proceedings.
- Government-issued photo ID: Required to enter events in Parliament.
- Business cards: For meetings and networking.
- Refillable water bottle: To reduce waste, those who are able may want to bring a refillable water bottle.
If you have any questions, please be in touch anytime. We look forward to seeing you.
Dinner Recommendations
Wondering where to head for dinner? You can find the best restaurants in our capital city, suggested by our supporting partner, Ottawa Tourism, here.
Si nécessaire en français, veuillez contacter.
