Our History
The National Recreation Foundation is a nonprofit charitable foundation administered by a citizens’ Board of Trustees. The Foundation was started to initiate and support the promotion and development of leadership, programs, and facilities in the field of recreation and parks.
Early Beginnings
World War I had a galvanizing effect on many American communities. As the United States answered its Allies’ call for support by sending thousands of young men into military service, those left at home banded together to support the war effort. War Camp Community Services, Inc. was established to provide recreation and other services for the "homefront."
By the end of World War I, the WCCS fund contained nearly $1.5 million. This money, invested in an endowment portfolio that has since grown to approximately $40 million, sparked the beginning of an organization devoted to enhancing the role of recreation in improving mental, physical, social and spiritual health: the National Recreation Foundation (NRF). Today, the NRF operates as a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to developing communities for those who do not have access to recreation programs.
Since 1919, members of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees historically have represented diverse areas of the U.S. and different facets of American life. But they have always shared three common bonds: a love of recreation, a deep respect for its value in all our lives, and the belief that high quality recreation programs are vital in fostering social stability in our communities.
Grant Selection Process
Every year, each member of the Board of Trustees recommends an innovative and creative project proposal that fulfills the aim of the Foundation, and projects are funded based upon these recommendations. In addition, the Foundation accepts proposals from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), and from other pre-selected organizations. Board recommended grants are limited to $30,000 but funding for NRPA and other special proposals are not subject to that limit. Grants are made only to tax-emempt 501c(3) organizations or to governmental agencies. Grants are not made for individual travel or for conferences; overhead expenses are not funded, nor does the Foundation provide funds for general operation. Projects that show promise of making significant contributions to recreation and the interests of the Foundation are considered seed money to initiate their programs.
Our Emphasis
In 1995, the Foundation selected “At-Risk Youth” and “Healthy Lifestyles” as issues of emphasis. Millions of American youngsters are neglected by their parents, schools, communities, and government – to the degree that many never have the opportunity for a productive and healthy future. These youth have been abandoned. Guidance and support are critical. Therefore, NRF funding priority is given to programs that encourage the development of citizenship and social skills, stem anti-social behavior, and emphasize proactive community lifestyles and values.
The Foundation supports aggressive campaigns to increase the fitness level of all Americans. The NRF considers this particularly important in view of the ever escalating cost of health care in the United States. Priority is given to cooperative, coordinated efforts among local, state, and national agencies that address the reduction of health care costs through prevention. Recreation and park organizations are encouraged to develop responses to the societal problem of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is well documented that recreation participation results in healthier living, which helps alleviate the cost of health care.
Response to Priorities in 2008 – 2009
Since the dual priorities of at-risk youth and healthy lifestyles were identified in 1995, the Foundation – funded projects have aimed to fulfill these goals. As you will see as you browse this site, all across the nation thousands of children and adults continue to benefit from the National Recreation Foundation.