The City of Atlanta is celebrating National Parks and Recreation month during the month of July and encouraging all residents to attend an outdoor event with family, visit a park and friends or participate in an activity at a recreational facility. The Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs will receive a proclamation from the Atlanta City Council on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at the City Council Chambers.
Each July, recreation facilities and parks across the country kick-off summer programs, promote outdoor physical activities and work with community volunteers to make their outdoor spaces a better place for all. Parks and Recreation Month will also recognize the contributions of employees and volunteers throughout the city who assist in maintaining public parks and recreation facilities. These are dedicated supporters who keep the public parks clean and safe for visitors, organize youth activities, provide educational programming on health, and fundraise for local improvements. One of the city’s partners, Park Pride will be hosting monthly park cleanups throughout July.
Due to the economic downturn, many residents and visitors are spending their time at the city parks and looking for event with minimum costs. Studies have shown going to a park and being active can reduce stress, improve health and help ward off obesity.
From July 12 through July 18, during National Therapeutic Recreation week, the City of Atlanta will be hosting a Carnival Day on July 13 at Camp Best Friends’ therapeutic camp located at Coan Park. The purpose of National Therapeutic Recreation Week is to enhance public awareness of therapeutic recreation programs and services, and expand recreation and leisure opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
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The City of Atlanta Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs is a national accredited agency by the National Recreation and Parks Association.
Park Pride, founded in 1989, is the only organization that works with communities all over Atlanta to improve their parks.