Park and recreation systems provide services through local, state, and national agencies. On the local level for the LWV of Wheaton, and our surrounding communities (Carol Stream, Warrenville, West Chicago, Winfield) these services are provided by park districts, special recreation associations, and the DuPage County Forest Preserve.

Illinois is one of the few states that has separate, autonomous units of government of park districts. These units of government have separate elected boards of commissioners, tax levies, and budgets that are not part of a city, village or town. Boundaries of park districts do not have to match, and seldom do match, the city’s boundaries. Special recreation associations are unique to Illinois based on legislation in the 1970s to create cooperative programs serving people with disabilities across many communities. These associations have boards made up of representatives from each member community, regardless of whether it is a park district or recreation department. The goals of these local public systems are to help preserve land for conservation, active and passive recreation, and improve the quality of life for their residents of all ages. Through productive leisure activities and pursuits, people can engage in fitness and intellectual challenges, gain new skills, and enhance social outlets.

1. Park and recreation systems should offer a variety of diverse recreation activities for all age groups, with consideration of different ability levels, languages, cultural background, financial ability to pay, and time and location.
2. Park and recreation systems should plan for the on-going and future needs of the community and review these masterplans on a regular basis for the cost and value to the community through the input of the community.
3. Park and recreation agencies should seek to stretch their resources through partnerships, intergovernmental agencies and/or external funding sources.
4. Park and recreation agencies should develop and maintain walking and biking path systems. These systems should link to other existing systems.
5. Park and recreation systems should utilize environmental practices, products, and assist with storm water diversion to reduce flooding.
6. Park and recreation systems should maintain a balanced budget.
7. Park and recreation systems should hire and retain qualified, educated professionals in all administrative positions.
8. Park and recreation systems should provide for continuing education opportunities for all staff.
9. Park and recreation systems should strive to be accessible to participants with differing abilities and special needs whenever feasible.