Metro Parks Tacoma Earns Accreditation

CAPRA recognizes Tacoma among the best of the best

The Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) has recognized Metro Parks Tacoma forexcellence in operation and service.

CAPRA accreditation is the only national accreditation for park and recreation agencies, and is a measure of an agency’s overall quality of operation, management and service to the community.

The CAPRA accreditation process began in the spring of last year and included contributions from nearly every employee and presentation of more than 1,400 supporting documents. The application process culminated with a four-day, on-site visit from CAPRA's inspection team in June.

The on-site visit concluded with verification of compliance with 144 standards of best practices in the industry. The reviewers found that Metro Parks Tacoma met or exceeded all standards and noted us as one of the most organized agencies they had ever visited. They commented that our strong base of policies, relationships with community and partners, and comprehensive planning was done to a degree almost unprecedented for first time applicants.

A CAPRA visitor stated, “you seem to tackle challenges with action, not because you have to, but because you can”, calling Metro Parks progressive.

Metro Parks will officially receive their accreditation at a hearing and ceremony that occurs at the National Recreation and Parks Association Conference October 13 in Charlotte, NC. The community is invited to learn more and celebrate at a reception and special presentation during the Park Board meeting October 27, 2014 from 5 - 6 pm.

Meeting CAPRA standards helps assure citizens, policy makers, staff, and program participants that Metro Parks Tacoma is what it strives to be: an accountable that contributes to a sustainable and livable city. 

Renton and Bellevue are the only two other agencies in the state of Washington that are accredited, nationwide there are 118. Accreditation is valid for a period of five years.

Learn more at: www.metroparkstacoma.org/accreditation