Advocacy & Policy Development Flashcards

Which NRPA publication provides park professionals with research-based evidence on the economic, health, and social benefits of parks for use in advocacy?

Answer: NRPA research brief series 'The Case for Parks and Recreation'

NRPA's 'The Case for Parks and Recreation' research briefs compile evidence-based data on park benefits across multiple domains specifically to support local and national advocacy efforts.

A city is considering privatizing its recreation centers. Which advocacy argument most effectively counters this proposal on equity grounds?

Answer: Privatization may result in fee structures that exclude low-income residents from essential services

Privatization of recreation centers often leads to higher user fees, which can create access barriers for low-income and underserved populations — a core equity concern in parks advocacy.

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program specifically targets funding for parks in which type of community?

Answer: Economically distressed urban communities that lack outdoor recreation opportunities

ORLP, administered through the LWCF, provides grants to create new outdoor recreation spaces specifically in underserved urban communities that currently lack nearby parks.

In policy development, a 'sunset clause' included in park funding legislation serves what purpose?

Answer: It sets an automatic expiration date on the legislation unless reauthorized

A sunset clause establishes an automatic expiration date, requiring legislators to actively reauthorize the program — a mechanism advocates must monitor and prepare to address.

When a park agency conducts a 'return on investment' (ROI) analysis for advocacy purposes, which outcome is MOST persuasive to finance-focused policymakers?

Answer: The economic multiplier effect showing that every $1 invested in parks generates measurable economic returns

Economic multiplier data that translates park investment into measurable financial returns (job creation, property value increases, healthcare savings) speaks directly to the priorities of budget-focused officials.

Which federal program, administered by the USDA Forest Service, provides grants to community tree-planting initiatives and can be leveraged in urban parks advocacy?

Answer: Urban and Community Forestry Program

The USDA Urban and Community Forestry Program provides technical and financial assistance for urban tree canopy projects, offering a funding avenue for parks advocates seeking greening and equity improvements.

A park advocacy campaign uses the slogan 'Parks Save Lives' focused on mental health outcomes. This represents which advocacy communication strategy?

Answer: Values-based framing

Values-based framing connects a policy issue to deeply held public values — in this case, human life and wellbeing — to build broad emotional and political support beyond technical arguments.