NWTRPA at CPRA’s Forward Together Summit and Day of Action in Ottawa

Last week, two representatives from the NWTRPA were in Ottawa for the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA)’s Forward Together: A Summit for Collective Impact, a national gathering that brought together recreation and parks leaders from across the country to advance shared federal priorities that support strong, healthy, and connected communities.

Over three days, we explored national trends affecting the sector, contributed to the renewal of the Framework for Recreation in Canada, and met with federal policymakers to advocate for meaningful investments in recreation and parks.

Throughout the Summit, we heard from organizations such as Active Abilities Canada, ParticipACTION, and the Aboriginal Sport Circle, and engaged in discussions on pressing topics including crisis preparedness, homelessness, sector capacity, and inclusive green spaces. We were guided through a deep dive into the Framework for Recreation renewal, followed by collective impact–driven breakout sessions that will shape the next iteration of this national framework. We also heard about new research exploring how inclusive outdoor spaces can strengthen community wellbeing.

As part of the Day of Action, NWTRPA representatives met with four Members of Parliament and their staff, advocating for federal investment that could bring meaningful, measurable impact to NWT communities.

In collaboration with CPRA and colleagues from across the country, the NWTRPA helped advance several key federal recommendations, including:

• Launch of a national Collective Impact model to renew and implement the Framework for Recreation in Canada.

• A federal Recreation Infrastructure Renewal Program to modernize aging or inadequate recreation facilities.

• An annual Crisis Preparedness & Recovery Fund, ensuring recreation leaders have the resources to support residents during emergencies, evacuations, and climate-driven events that increasingly affect the North.

• Federal support for youth workforce development, positioning CPRA as a national partner to help youth access training and career pathways in recreation and parks.

  
  

These priorities reflect the realities of the NWT, where recreation infrastructure is often aging; where emergencies and climate-driven disruptions affect daily life; and where youth development remains essential to long-term community resilience.

The NWTRPA is grateful for the opportunity to bring the voices, experiences, and needs of communities directly to federal decision-makers. We look forward to continuing this work with the CPRA and partners to strengthen recreation for all residents of the NWT.