Page 33 - Illinois Association of Park Districts Benefits of Membership 2017 - 2018

Technical Assistance
IAPD’s staff answers hundreds of questions and provides information or assistance to address a wide variety of issues or concerns from our members, citizens, legislators and the media. IAPD’s staff has a combined total of more than 113 years of experience working with park districts, forest preserves, conservation, recreation and special recreation agencies. This expertise has been an invaluable asset to IAPD members.
IAPD also offers various types of premium level technical assistance to member agencies, upon demand and under contract, based on the specific needs of an agency in the following areas:
Legal/Legislative Counsel
The association assists board members and directors on legal issues. In addition, the legal/legislative counsel provides free consultation services to attorneys throughout the state who serve park districts, forest preserves, conservation, recreation and special recreation agencies.
Strategic Planning
IAPD works with an agency’s board and staff to identify organizational strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, and guides them in the development of goals and strategies for a 3- to 5-year action plan. These planning workshops have been from 3 hours’ duration to several sessions spanning more than 6 months, depending on the requested level of IAPD involvement.
Resource Management
IAPD can provide suggestions and recommendations on the wise use of resources including staff, open-space, facilities and partnerships. The association can also assist with unique conservation or natural resource issues, including those that may require permits from a state and/or federal agency.
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