Council Connection: Using Data to Make the Case

Data can help tell the story of parks and recreation in ways that resonate with decision-makers, elected officials, and communities. In this session, two experienced park and recreation directors will share how their agencies identified meaningful metrics, gathered and analyzed data, and turned information into compelling narratives that supported operational improvements and capital investment. Through real-world examples, attendees will learn practical approaches to using data not just for reporting, but for building trust, demonstrating impact, and making the case for the future of parks and recreation services.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify meaningful operational and community-focused metrics that can help demonstrate the value and impact of parks and recreation services. Attendees will learn how high performing agencies determine which data points matter most to stakeholders and decision-makers

2. Develop strategies for collecting and organizing data in ways that support informed planning and investment decisions. Attendees will explore practical methods for gathering both quantitative and qualitative information to strengthen operational and capital discussions. 

3. Apply storytelling techniques that translate data into compelling narratives for elected officials, boards, and community members. Attendees will gain tools for presenting information in a clear, relatable way that builds understanding and support for parks and recreation priorities.

This learning event is a part of the Council Connection learning series. Council Connection is an NRPA Business Council-led learning series aimed at addressing the most pressing topics in parks and recreation today. These sessions are led by subject matter experts on the council, developed in collaboration with park professionals, and are designed to foster leadership and innovation.