Following the 2008 economic downturn, America’s parks faced a funding crisis. Although the economy has bounced back and consumers are spending a bit more freely, parks haven’t seen the light at the end of this particular tunnel yet. Columbia, Mo., … Continue reading →
The face of prejudice changes with time; the perspective and identity of both the judger and the judgee change, morphing into different identities and forms in different generations. Throughout generations and around the country, traditional racial profiling training programs have … Continue reading →
Following a major disaster, volunteers arrive on the scene, ready to lend a hand. For the most part, communities in crisis mode find volunteer help invaluable; however, if not managed properly, even good volunteers can become a liability. Kevin Peters … Continue reading →
As budgets get stretched tighter and tighter, everyone is looking for innovative ways to complete civic projects. Civic crowdfunding is an avenue that has met with some success. Crowdfunding is defined as the practice of obtaining needed services, ideas or … Continue reading →
Your mother always told you: If you can’t say something nice about someone, don’t say anything at all. It turns out that cities and towns could use some of Mom’s wisdom, at least where being considerate of others is concerned. … Continue reading →
A popular mantra among the environmentally conscious during the past few decades has been a call for increased attention to renewable energy. At the same time, technological advancements in wind, solar, geothermal and hydroelectric energy, among other sustainable sources, has … Continue reading →
The bad news is, Americans generate trash. Lots of it. Now, the good news: An increasing number of municipalities are finding ways to turn that refuse into fuel, reusable material and revenue. The problem Amid the convenience of disposability and … Continue reading →
With shivering memories of last year’s arctic cold, heavy snow and other miserable weather, public works is bracing itself in case this winter is a copycat of the last one. So far, indications are that it will be. Bloomington, Minn., … Continue reading →
A strong volunteer network, government support and a commitment to asset management are bringing the Canterbury region of New Zealand back from the extensive destruction it suffered three years ago. That’s what Amanda Millirons discovered when the Florida public works … Continue reading →
Do you need a great idea to jump start participation in your parks and recreation programs? “Great Ideas Start Here” is the theme of the 2014 National Recreation and Parks Association conference, happening Oct. 14–16 in Charlotte, N.C. Whether you’d … Continue reading →
Combining education with the thrill of drag racing, police officers and other emergency personnel are curbing illegal street racing by bringing racers to the track. The goal of one organization called Beat the Heat is to educate young people about … Continue reading →
