Seeing the Bigger Picture

Recently I was able to represent Alberta Recreation and Parks Association at a "Growing Rural Tourism" Conference in Camrose, AB. One participant asked me what the campsite space measurements were for the local campground being built in their community. Others did not see the connection between recreation and parks to tourism.

This left me realizing that sometimes within our own organizational circle we may take for granted that others easily understand what the organization is able to provide. Alternatively, we may forget that the focus we are involved with does not always have the same meaning to people not immersed within the sector.

To me, that means that developing connections and partnerships is vital to create awareness about what organizations do. Creating connections between other sectors helps to demonstrate how interwoven and interdependent we really are. It helps all of us see the "bigger picture".

Developing partnerships and connections does take work. Sometimes it means thinking outside the box. Sometimes it even means breaking down barriers. However these relationships are created, they take time and attention.

Partnership building between cross-sectors seems to be one of the best way to move forward in the future for organizations because it creates more space for success and collaboration. The process creates opportunity for growth and learning.

Tourism, recreation, and parks is a natural fit for developing partnerships. Whether a tourist or a resident the impacts of recreation and parks affects quality of life.

In essence, developing partnerships and connections is a way to build the setting in order to see the bigger picture. Some of us are just able to see the picture before the entire frame is built.