The Division of Recreation and Youth Development consists of five specialized key businesses: Aquatics, Adult Leisure, Athletics, Outdoor Education, and Youth Development. Within each key business there are several business activities made up of a wide variety of recreational and leisure programs that are planned and offered throughout the year to residents of the City of Roanoke and communities throughout the Roanoke Valley.
It is our sincere hope that you will take a moment to check out the latest issue of PLAY Magazine, our quarterly guide to recreational programs and services, or view our programs and register online at www.roanokeva.gov/playonline With more than 1,200 programs offered annually, there's no doubt we've got something just for you! For more information about our programs and service, please contact the administrative office at 540-853-2236 or parksrec@roanokeva.gov.
The Importance of Community-Based Recreation
Recreation at one time was viewed as something nice to do when we had the time. This perception has undergone significant change as individuals and communities have realized the broad-reaching benefits of recreation and active living. Research has and continues to demonstrate these benefits. Recreation is essential to personal health and balanced human development. It is critical to the quality of life and livability of a community, reducing self-destructive and anti-social behavior while building strong families and healthy neighborhoods. The costs of social issues like health care, social service, and public safety are all reduced as a result of recreation. Recreation has also proven to be a significant economic generator for local jurisdictions.
Structured recreation facilitates social interactions that are critical to maintaining community cohesion and pride. Programs provide a meeting place where community members can develop social ties and where healthy behavior is modeled and admired. Leisure activities improve moods, reduce stress, and enhance a sense of wellness. In an increasingly complex world, more and more people are placing a high value on achieving the feelings of relaxation and peacefulness that recreation and exposure to natural open spaces bring.
Recreational programs provide organized, structured, and enjoyable activities for all ages. The diverse range of programs offered by Roanoke Parks and Recreation allows everyone the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to successfully and confidently engage in sports, dance, crafts, and other social activities. Our athletic leagues and classes offer seniors, adults, and children alike the opportunity to interact with coaches and instructors who often turn into lifetime mentors and role models. Quality recreational programs facilitate safety, good sportsmanship, and community participation. Recreational programs led by trained leaders offer children healthy role models and valuable life lessons to help steer youth to a future of promise and opportunity for success.