Accreditation means we're doing it right for you
By Jerry Jones
President, THPRD Board of Directors
On Sept. 25, we were informed by the National Recreation & Park Association that we have successfully achieved accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA).
That’s a big deal. Fewer than 2% of park and recreation agencies nationally are CAPRA accredited.
We sought this accreditation more than a year ago to improve our processes and to effectively demonstrate the work we do to improve the quality of life for Beaverton-area residents.
We were required to demonstrate compliance with 151 standards that the commission deems indicative of excellent management. We achieved all 151.
A large percentage of these standards were already in place -- definable goals and objectives, a strategic plan, emergency management planning, just to name a few. Other standards required hard work to develop, including a new grant strategy, a historic buildings plan and an update of our Programs Functional Plan.
A work team of 20-plus THPRD employees was assembled to provide evidence of compliance and, when necessary, to satisfy any unmet standards. These teams included both longtime employees and the next generation of THPRD leaders.
Together, this group created, updated, formalized and organized the plans and procedures that will guide the district’s foreseeable future. This process was educational, providing great cross-training on a number of subjects for THPRD’s emerging leaders. Additionally, the assembly of so much information helps ensure the transfer of institutional knowledge among our employees.
Already a successful endeavor, we expect this accreditation to yield many more dividends. It was a big undertaking. Even more significant, we hope it demonstrates how committed our agency is to be outstanding in every way for you and to continually improve the health, wellness and happiness of the communities we serve. Thank you.
Learn more about THPRD's CAPRA accreditation at http://www.thprd.org/connect/CAPRA.