Back Up Agenda Item 25__PARD Expansion for Seniors Programming from the Asian American QoL Advisory Commission — original pdf

Backup

ASIAN AMERICAN QUALITY-OF-LIFE ADVISORY COMMISSION (AAQoL) RECOMMENDATION 20250318-14 Date: March 18, 2025 Subject: Recommendation on the FY 2025-26 Budget Parks and Recreation Expansion of Senior Programming Language Access Motioned by: Drafted by: Hanna Huang (Chair), AARC Workgroup Seconded By: Parks and Recreation Expansion of Senior Programming Description Currently, the Parks and Recreation Department’s (PARD) Senior Programs are housed in the 3 Senior Activity Centers and various recreation facilities such as the Gus Garcia Recreation, Lorraine Camacho Activity Center, Pickfair Activity Center, and more. Senior programs also are supplemented by Congregate Meal Programs (administered by Meals on Wheels) and Senior Transport Program both funded by the Capitol Area Council of Governments (CAPCOG). With the move of the Old Bakery & Emporium, the Asian American Resource Center, and the Mexican American Culture Center into the new Office of Arts, Culture, Music, and Entertainment (ACME), the majority of Parks and Recreation’s Senior Programs with significant translated materials and programs with language interpretation will leave the department. However, there are still significant opportunities for PARD to increase language access along with an expansion in senior programs to facilities underused during daytime programming hours like Montopolis Recreation Center, Northwest Recreation Center, and more. Additionally, areas like the Gus Garcia Recreation Center and the Pickfair Activity Center are fast outgrowing demand for senior activities due to space and staffing constraints. Seniors in the areas Northeast and Northwest of the City are lacking dedicated senior centers, the last of which was built in 1992. Recommendation The Commission recommends more dedicated Senior Programming Specialists and Coordinators within Recreation and Activity Centers in the Parks and Recreation Department.  Additionally, Marketing Representatives or staff with Language Access experience are needed to do a review and make recommendations to improve processes for signing up and participating in Senior Programs, Congregate Meals at PARD sites, and Senior Transportation for those who are Limited English Proficient (LEP). Department Parks and Recreation Department Alignment with Council Strategic Priorities Culture & Lifelong Learning: Quality, accessibility, and diversity of civic and cultural venues, events, programs, and resources; Quality of lifelong learning opportunities. Health & Environment: Accessibility to quality parks, trails, and recreational opportunities Government That Works for All: Condition of City facilities and technology; Public engagement and participation; Equity of City programs and resource allocation. Vote For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: