HR0900 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0900 LRB104 21881 ECR 37719 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Illinois park districts, forest preserve districts, conservation districts, recreation departments, and special recreation associations enrich communities by promoting health and wellness, supporting youth development, fostering inclusion and accessibility, and creating meaningful opportunities for residents of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to connect with one another and with nature; and

WHEREAS, Local park and recreation agencies play an essential role in conserving natural resources, restoring native habitats, protecting wildlife, and preserving open spaces while helping children and families develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors through hands-on experiences throughout parks, trails, prairies, and forests; and

WHEREAS, Park and recreation agencies contribute significantly to the economic vitality of Illinois by creating jobs, attracting tourism, increasing property values, strengthening local tax bases, enhancing quality of life, and making communities more attractive places to live, work, and invest; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois Association of Park Districts and its member agencies have established Illinois as a national leader in parks, recreation, and conservation by providing residents with exceptional parks, open spaces, and recreational programs; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare July 2026 as Park and Recreation Month in the State of Illinois to celebrate the dedicated agencies' locally elected commissioners, professionals, and volunteers whose work enhances the quality of life for millions of Illinois residents and underscores the power of parks and recreation to build healthier, more connected, and more resilient communities.