top of page

Advancing Parks and Recreation Through Advocacy 

Your voice, amplified. At PRO, we're committed to ensuring that parks and recreation remain a priority for provincial decision-makers. Through policy responses and stakeholder partnerships, we highlight the essential role that parks and recreation plays in advancing community well-being. Driven by our members' passion, we work together to advocate for a future where every Ontarian has access to vibrant communities, sustainable environments, and personal health.

Parliament building at Queens Park

2025 Federal Election Guide

On March 23, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a snap federal election. Election day is April 28, 2025. Check out the resources we compiled to support your advocacy efforts during election season!

Foundations for the Future:
2025 Ontario Pre-Budget Submission

This plan lays foundations for the future of Ontario's parks and recreation sector. Our recommendations include:

  • $1B/year for critical recreation infrastructure

  • $9M/year to remove barriers to participation

  • Workforce empowerment initiatives for future leaders

​​

​These investments will help build healthier communities, vibrant infrastructure, and an empowered workforce for all Ontarians. Together, we're shaping a future of inclusion, sustainability, and connection.  

Pre Budget Submission

Policy Responses

We closely monitor proposed provincial legislative and policy changes that effect the parks and recreation sector. We review and analyze proposed changes and provide recommendations informed by the latest parks and recreation research and member feedback.  

Policy Responses

Media Releases

We speak up on the issues that matter most. Explore our public statements on key topics affecting parks and recreation.

6 year old soccer player kicking ball on soccer field

June 13, 2024

PRO Welcomes Provincial Funding Increase to Support Active Living for Seniors

6 year old soccer player kicking ball on soccer field

March 26, 2024

Provincial Budget Earmarks Funding to Support Recreation Infrastructure

6 year old soccer player kicking ball on soccer field

October 10, 2023

PRO Commends Provincial Funding Increase to Ontario’s After School Program

Research & Resources

Research and Resources

We've developed and complied tools and research that will elevate your advocacy game. Browse the resources below. 

A guiding document for public recreation providers in Canada, developed collaboratively by the provincial/territorial governments and the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA).

An action plan for Canada’s parks community, initiated and supported through a partnership between the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) and the Canadian Parks Council (CPC).

A national policy document developed by a steering committee on behalf of the federal, provincial and territorial Ministers responsible for sport, physical activity and recreation in Canada.

Legislation Library

Legislation Library

We've made it easier to stay current by compiling government regulations and legislation affecting the parks and recreation sector. Learn more about current legislation and how it applies to your organization.

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 

Health Protection and Promotion Act, R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 565: Public Pools

Garret's Legacy Act (Requirements for Movable Soccer Goals), 2024

Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006

Safer Municipalities Act,
2024

Child Care and Early Years Act,
2014

Combative Sports Act,
2019

More Homes Built Faster Act,
2022

Rowan's Law (Concussion Safety),
2018

Senior Active Living Centres Act,
2017

June is Recreation & Parks Month

June is Recreation and Parks Month

June is Recreation and Parks Month (JRPM) is a movement that promotes the benefits of recreation and parks for physical, social, and environmental health. Communities across Ontario have embraced JRPM as a way to promote local programs and events, parks and facilities that are available for all citizens to enjoy. 
 

Access to park and recreation is a fundamental human need that helps foster personal health, strong communities, and social inclusion. JRPM celebrates Ontario’s spectacular parks and recreation services and raises awareness for the role they play as a pathway to individual, community, and environmental well-being.

Members receive a JRPM toolkit to help celebrate in their communities. The toolkit is available in early May. 

Interested in accessing more advocacy resources?

bottom of page