Park Perspectives: Distinguished Accreditation

Friday, January 24, 2025

The Glencoe Park District has been recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA).

The two statewide associations administer the Illinois Distinguished Accreditation program with the goal of improving the delivery of park and recreation services to Illinois residents. "Illinois is recognized as having the best park districts, forest preserves, conservation, recreation, and special recreation agencies in the nation," said Peter Murphy, IAPD President and CEO. "The Distinguished Accreditation program provides an opportunity for these agencies to undergo a voluntary, comprehensive evaluation process to demonstrate that they have met established guidelines to provide exceptional park and recreation services."

"This program gives recognition to park and recreation agencies and forest preserve districts that are dedicated to providing quality programs, services, and facilities designed to fulfill the needs of their communities and residents," said Suzi Wirtz, IPRA Executive Director. "Successful completion of the Distinguished Park and Recreation Accreditation process is a testament not only to the agency, but the staff, board and community with the ultimate result of improved quality of life, making Illinois the best place to live, work, and recreate."

A park district or recreation agency interested in applying for Distinguished Accredited Agency recognition undergoes a detailed, lengthy process of application and evaluation. A Joint Distinguished Park and Recreation Accreditation Committee (JDPRAC) comprised of members from IAPD and IPRA coordinates the process. "Agencies submit a self-evaluation and a formal letter requesting admission into the process," said Dan Jones, IPRA Co-Chair of the JDPRAC. "If the committee determines the agency is eligible to continue the process, the agency is assigned a mentor to assist them with their preparation toward an evaluation date."

According to Jones, on the day of the evaluation, the agency presents documented information and gives a tour of pertinent facilities and parks for the evaluation team's review.

The team reviews general management procedures, finance and business operations, facilities and parks, personnel, recreation services, legal documentation, and other materials including mission statements, goals, and safety manuals.

Upon completion of the evaluation, the agency is notified in writing of the official results within ten days. Agencies that have achieved Distinguished Accredited status are recognized during the IAPD/IPRA Annual Conference in January.

"There are tremendous benefits for an agency that achieves Distinguished Accredited status," said Mike Renner, IAPD Co-Chair of the JDPRAC. "The agency's application and review process are an excellent self-evaluation and agencies that apply realize increased operational efficiency and effectiveness. Communities can have confidence that their park district, forest preserve district, or recreation agency employs qualified professionals and has met professional standards."

The Glencoe Park District became an Illinois Distinguished Accreditated institution in 2019. In 2024, the District applied for re-accreditation in 2024. "By dedicating the time and effort to go through the review process, the Glencoe Park District has shown a commitment to meeting the highest standards of the park and recreation profession," said Lisa Sheppard, Glencoe Park District Executive Director.

The JDPRAC approved the Glencoe Park District for Distinguished Accredited status in November 2024 with an outstanding score of 502.63 points (out of 500 possible base points). The committee said when a District earns almost 100% of the possible base points, it is apparent that every facet of the organization is deserving of recognition.

In compliance with the program, the Glencoe Park District will be reevaluated in six years to verify that they have continued to demonstrate sound management practices in providing quality park and recreation services to the community.

IAPD is a non-profit service, research, and education organization that serves park districts, forest preserves, conservation districts, recreation departments, and special recreation associations. The association advances these agencies, their citizen board members, and professional staff in their ability to provide outstanding park and recreation opportunities, preserve natural resources, and improve the quality of life for all people in Illinois.

IPRA's mission is to provide and promote exceptional standards of education, networking, and resources for all professionals in the Illinois park, recreation, and conservation communities. The association advances professional knowledge and business excellence and enhances networking and growth for all professionals in the state of Illinois.