Advancing the Profession

Advancing the profession means making sure the value of parks and recreation is seen, heard, and supported. Through statewide advocacy, the Parks Make Life Better!® campaign, the Parks Impact Calculator, and the California Action Plan, we help professionals tell powerful stories and shape public policy. We’re here to elevate your voice, strengthen your impact, and ensure parks are not just appreciated—but prioritized. Because when parks thrive, everyone benefits.

The Star Report
Legislative Updates

CPRS Watch List

Follow CPRS legislative activity using our monthly Watch List.

Advocacy Community

Ready to get more involved? Join our online, members only, Advocacy Community!

CPRS Legislative Calendar

Actionable steps YOU can take TODAY to be a better advocate for parks and recreation!

Advocacy: Championing Parks and Recreation for All Californians

At the California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS), we believe parks and recreation are not just amenities — they are vital services that shape healthy, resilient, and thriving communities. From cleaner air and safer neighborhoods to mental wellness and economic vitality, public investment in parks, open space, and recreation transforms lives and landscapes across California.

What Advocacy Means at CPRS

CPRS leads the charge to:

Champion parks and recreation as vital public services
We lead with pride and clarity, ensuring the value of parks and recreation is recognized and respected in every policy conversation, community plan, and public investment.
Protect public access and public spaces
We advocate for strong, publicly funded systems that preserve access to parks, programs, and open spaces for every Californian.
Advance the profession and build advocacy skills
Through trainings, resources, and tools, we help professionals grow as advocates — amplifying your voice and the collective impact of our field.
Support local advocacy and grassroots action
We equip our members to be powerful advocates at the local level, offering resources to help you inform, influence, and engage decision-makers in your own community.
Monitor legislation that matters
CPRS tracks key state and federal legislation and policies that affect parks and recreation — from funding to environmental issues to public health — keeping you informed and engaged.