Fair to say, we no longer live in Mr. Roger's neighborhood. Building "community" in a community has become a lot more challenging, especially with when many people are spending more time finding their communities online and communicating via email, text or through social media.

 

One thing that hasn't changed is that Parks and Recreation Departments are still  "opt-in"  communities.

Individuals and families that particpate in the benefits and resources offered are doing so because they want to not because they have to.  Therefore, community-building created through Parks and Recreation Departments can greatly influence the well-being of the community as a whole. 

 

Trying to protect the well-being of community members is of great importance.  One of the greatest threats facing our young people is the desire to "fit in" and,therefore, not always share their authentic selves or contributing their gifts for fear of being bullied. Young people are in crisis and so are communities.

 

Here are some startling facts:

• Bullying behaviors begin as early as 3 years old

• Verbal harassment is the most common form of bullying

• 3.2 million kids are bullied each year

• 71% of kids believe that bullying is a problem at their school

• 90% of 4th to 8th graders have been bullied

• Cyberbullying is a silent but deadly threat

• Suicide is the third leading cause of death in young people, ages 10 to 24 years old

 

You might be thinking:

This is the parents responsibility.

This is the schools responsibility. 

This is the churches responsibility.

 

And you are right, but there is a GAP -- a widening gap and that's where you, as Parks and Recreation leaders, can help.  YOU have GREAT power and INFLUENCE because you are not the parent or the teacher, school administrator, or church leader. YOU are offer participants something that they want, that they enjoy--it's not a "do this, don't do that" culture.  Therefore, they would naturally be more open to hearing what you have to say. And so much can change with conversation, communication and helping to mind this GAP.

 

This is where our MISFIT STRONG program  in partnership with Parks and Recreation Departments could prove beneficial on many levels.