Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Earns National Reaccreditation

Fort Collins' Parks and Recreation Department has earned reaccreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies, confirming the city meets 154 rigorous standards for safety, management and service delivery. The reaccreditation was awarded during the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, according to a City of Fort Collins news release issued January 13.

Only 222 park and recreation agencies nationwide hold CAPRA accreditation, making Fort Collins part of an exclusive group. The designation strengthens Fort Collins' position in budget debates, grant applications and long-range planning as the city grows.

The accreditation process included self-assessment, on-site review by trained volunteer evaluators and formal CAPRA Commission approval.

"Reaccreditation shows that we are keeping the needs of our community at the center of everything we do," said LeAnn Williams, Deputy Director of Community Services. "From our parks and trails to recreation programs and community events, this recognition reflects our team's dedication to providing safe, welcoming and high-quality experiences for everyone in Fort Collins."

In Colorado, 12 agencies hold CAPRA accreditation, including Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services and Durango Parks & Recreation.

CAPRA is the only national accreditation program for park and recreation agencies. Fort Collins must undergo reaccreditation every five years to maintain its CAPRA standing, keeping the department aligned with evolving national standards.