Framework for Recreation in Canada

A guiding document for public recreation providers in Canada, updated to reflect Canada in 2024.

Are you a recreation and parks professional?

We want to hear from you.

Have Your Say in the Renewal of the Framework for Recreation in Canada

If you are a recreation and parks professional, we want to hear from you. The renewal of the Framework for Recreation in Canada is underway, and we need your voice. This important document will shape the future of recreation and parks in Canada, and now is your chance to contribute. Consultations are now underway and whether you prefer to participate in an in-person or virtual consultation, or simply fill out a survey, we want to hear from you in whatever way works best for your region. 

Your insights are critical in ensuring the Framework reflects the needs and aspirations of those working in recreation. If you are interested in having your voice heard, make sure we have your email so you can be part of this essential conversation.

This is your opportunity to contribute to a framework that reflects the needs and aspirations of the recreation community.

 

About the Framework

The Framework for Recreation in Canada, updated for 2024, is the guiding document for public recreation providers in Canada.

The Framework emphasizes the vital role of the recreation and parks sector in enhancing the health, wellbeing, and resilience of Canadians and their communities.

By providing accessible recreation activities, conserving natural environments, and fostering spaces for physical and social interactions, the sector significantly contributes to the quality of life across the country.

The updated Framework addresses current challenges, including climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and demographic shifts, while highlighting the need for inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement. It offers guidelines and strategies to help practitioners navigate contemporary complexities and promote growth within the sector, ensuring recreation and parks remain integral to the fabric of Canadian life.

Click here to download the 2024 Framework Update, or continue below to learn more.
Click here to download the 2024 Framework Update, or continue below to learn more.

 

Background

The first edition of the Framework, “Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing,” was a collaborative effort of the provincial and territorial governments (except Quebec), the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA), and the provincial/territorial recreation and parks associations (including l’Association québécoise du loisir municipal). This first edition was endorsed by provincial and territorial ministers and supported by the Government of Canada in February 2015 to provide guidance and galvanize the recreation and parks sector.

Significant change has occurred since the Framework was first published in 2015. To reflect and address these changes, and after consultation with sector representatives across the country, a 2024 Framework Update was developed by the recreation and parks sector for the sector in partnership with CPRA and under the guidance of the Framework Leadership Team.

The 2024 Framework Update is not meant to replace the original edition, but instead to highlight current context and provide new information that impacts the sector and the development of recreation and parks strategies and action plans.

Click here to download the Contextual Analysis for the Framework. 

Vision, Values, & Principles

The Vision of the Framework is a Canada in which everyone is engaged in meaningful, accessible recreation experiences that foster individual wellbeing, the wellbeing of natural and built environments, and community wellbeing.

The Values that guide the Framework are: public good, inclusion and equity, sustainability, and lifelong participation.

The Principles of operation underlying the Framework are: outcome-driven, quality and relevance, evidence-based, partnerships, and innovation.

 

Goals, Priorities, & Application

The Framework describes five goals and priorities for action under each goal.

The five goals presented in the updated Framework remain consistent with those established in the 2015. However, their descriptions have been revised to reflect current perspectives and insights. The Priorities for each goal have also been updated based on what was heard through the consultation process involved in the Framework Update.

Click below to learn more about the Framework goals and priorities, as well as actionable strategies for recreation and parks professionals to advance these priorities, covering both operational and strategic dimensions.

Goal 1: Active Living

Goal 1: Active Living

Foster active living through physical recreation. Focus on getting the inactive, active, rather than the active, more active.

Goal 2: Inclusion and Access

Goal 2: Inclusion and Access

Increase inclusion and access to recreation for populations that face constraints
or barriers to participation.

Goal 4: Supportive Environments

Goal 4: Supportive Environments

Ensure the provision of supportive physical and social environments that encourage participation in recreation and help to build strong, caring communities.

More Framework News & Resources

10 Ways to Use the Framework

10 Ways to Use the Framework

Whether you are revising your master plan, presenting to your Municipal Council or interested in sharing a success story, this document provides great ideas and options for how the Framework...
Framework and Quebec Recreation Policy

Framework and Quebec Recreation Policy

In 2015, A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing (The Framework) was released, designed to “guide and stimulate coordinated policies and practices in recreation and related jurisdictions...
Framework Alignment Tool

Framework Alignment Tool

The Framework Alignment Tool was created to allow local governments and organizations to assess their current situation with respect to implementing the goals and priorities of the Framework for Recreation...
Framework One-Page Summary

Framework One-Page Summary

Looking to explain the Framework but don’t have time to read the full document? Download and print this one-page document (p. 17) which outlines the Vision, Values, Principles and Goals...