Empowering youth. Strengthening neighborhoods. Providing life-enriching programs for a beautiful, livable community. Parks and recreation centers are more than amenities. They serve as leaders in community wellbeing.

While pressure from the pandemic wanes, we are experiencing high mental and physical illness associated with long-term health conditions, unhealthy lifestyles, and an aging population. The isolation that came with the pandemic has affected our society in profound ways, and many communities are fractured.

As we struggle to make sense of the changing world, we must use this moment to invest in design’s restorative power as a public good. To create places that offer meaningful connections and support. Places that are not just good-looking but good for us.

This paper explores the critical role community centers play in society and how they can make a lasting, positive impact on the people they serve. Download at right to learn more.