July is NRPA’s Park and Recreation Month! Parks and recreation have the power to transform neighborhoods, foster connection and create healthier, happier communities. Here are just some of the many reasons South Suburban is proud to be a place where community grows:  

Bringing People Together 

Neighbors connect with nature and one another at parks and natural open spaces. South Suburban staff protects and preserves 2,400+ acres of open space, 100+ miles of trails and more than 100 parks for our community to enjoy for generations to come. In fact, 98% of residents in the District are within .5 miles of recreation opportunities. 

According to NRPA’s 2022 Engagement with Parks Report, 84 percent of U.S. adults seek high-quality parks and recreation when choosing a place to live, so it’s no wonder so many people are happy to call our community home!  

Providing Essential Services  

The services that park and recreation professionals provide are vital for our communities — from protecting open spaces and natural resources to promoting healthy lifestyles for all. According to NRPA, 93 percent of U.S. adults say local parks and recreation services improve their mental health. Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, promotes healthy weight, and much more.  

South Suburban’s facilities act as community hubs for people from all walks of life. Our recreation centers are some of the largest providers of SilverSneakers and active adult programming in the state, free and low-cost programs for kids are available throughout the District, Sheridan Recreation Center hosts a food pantry, and our park rangers provide valuable resources to those they encounter who need them.  

Fostering the Growth of Our Community 

As our community continues to grow, South Suburban is proud to offer outdoor spaces, facilities and programs to serve the diverse needs of our patrons. Staff work hard to provide new and creative programs, state-of-the art facilities and equipment, and inclusive recreation opportunities – all guided by our recently updated Master and Strategic plans. 

South Suburban is planning and building more pickleball courts, multiple new facilities, an 80-acre regional park to serve new residents, and so much more. Each day, South Suburban staff are dedicated to serving our community, now and for generations to come! As our community grows, so does our need for invested employees. Love to work where you live at careers.ssprd.org and join our team. 

Learn more about Park and Recreation Month at nrpa.org/July and join the conversation using #WhereCommunityGrows! If you’re not already, follow South Suburban on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube to keep up with the latest happenings across the District.