Overview:
The Inclusion Award celebrates the forward-thinking efforts of communities, organizations, or individuals in Alberta who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to championing inclusion initiatives, change, or practices within the recreation and parks sector.
Inclusion is the practice of providing everyone with equitable access to opportunities and resources that help enhance and respect the equity and diversity of all individuals. These strategies are vital to reducing inequities and ensuring the benefits of recreation are universal. Inclusive actions foster a sense of belonging and make recreation and parks spaces a safer, more welcoming, and respectful environment for all.
Eligibility
- Alberta based initiative, change, or practice.
- Communities or Organizations include:
- Municipalities
- Not for Profit Organizations
- Businesses
- Schools
- Health Care Facilities
- Individuals or Groups
- Alberta Recreation & Parks Association membership is encouraged and may be prioritized in the selection process
The initiative must:
- Demonstrate the creation, implementation, or facilitation of a social justice, equity, diversity and/or inclusion initiative for the recreation and parks sector
- Have been instrumental in the creation, implementation, or facilitation of initiatives or programs that promote social justice, equity, diversity, and/or inclusion within the recreation and parks sector. These initiatives may include but are not limited to;
- Have utilized innovative and creative approaches in addressing barriers to inclusion and promoting diversity within the recreation and parks sector.
After you apply: The ARPA Awards and Scholarships Committee with representation from all aspects of the recreation and parks sector and across the province will select the award recipient. The committee will evaluate the nominations by rating:
- Demonstrated Commitment to Inclusion: Nominees must have demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering inclusion within the recreation and parks sector, actively promoting equity, diversity, and social justice principles in their initiatives, policies, and practices.
- Creation, Implementation, or Facilitation of Initiatives: Successful nominees will have been instrumental in the creation, implementation, or facilitation of initiatives or programs that promote social justice, equity, diversity, and/or inclusion within the recreation and parks sector. These initiatives may include but are not limited to, accessibility improvements, diversity training, inclusive programming, or community engagement efforts.
- Impact and Reach: The nominated initiative should have a significant and measurable impact on promoting inclusion and creating more equitable and accessible recreational opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds and abilities within the community. Nominees should provide evidence of the initiative's reach and effectiveness in fostering inclusion and diversity.
- Promotion of Social Justice and Equity: The nominated initiative should actively promote social justice, equity, and fairness within the recreation and parks sector, advocating for the rights and needs of marginalized and underrepresented groups. Nominees should demonstrate a commitment to addressing systemic barriers and promoting a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
- Long-term Sustainability: Nominees should outline plans for the long-term sustainability and impact of their inclusion initiatives, including strategies for ongoing evaluation, improvement, and expansion. The initiative should leave a lasting legacy of inclusion and diversity within the recreation and parks sector.
The Alberta Recreation & Parks Association presents the award during the ARPA Conference & Energize Workshop. Award recipients will receive:
- Recognition at the ARPA Conference President’s Award Dinner
- Two tickets to the President’s Award Dinner, option to purchase additional tickets available
- Mileage reimbursement and 1 night hotel accommodations to attend the President’s Award Dinner
- A keepsake to display in their facilities
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