On March 5, 2025, recreation specialists gathered at the Henry H. Brigham Community Center for an engaging and insightful training session led by Tameka Williams, CPRP, CYSA, the Director of Recreation & Parks. The workshop, titled Programs & Services Reviews & Assessments, focused on equipping professionals with the tools needed to analyze, improve, and sustain community programming.
Key Takeaways from the Training
The session covered a broad range of topics designed to help recreation professionals enhance their offerings. Participants explored:
- Program SWOT Analysis – Identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats within their programs.
- Different Types of Programs & Services – Understanding self-directed, leader-directed, and facilitated programs.
- Program Classification – Recognizing which programs are essential, important, or value-added based on community needs.
- Program Lifecycles – Learning when to introduce, modify, or retire programs based on participation trends.
- Evaluation Tools – Utilizing observations, interviews, and surveys to assess program effectiveness.
“This training helped me see programming in a new light,” said one participant. “Understanding the lifecycle of a program will help me make better decisions about when to modify or phase out activities that are no longer serving the community effectively.”
Another attendee shared, “I never realized how much strategy goes into evaluating programs. The SWOT analysis was eye-opening and gave me practical steps to improve what we offer.”
Moving Forward
As the Augusta Parks & Recreation team continues to refine its approach, workshops like this one provide valuable guidance. By implementing the evaluation tools and classification strategies discussed in the training, recreation professionals are better prepared to ensure their programs remain relevant and impactful.
“We are all programmers,” Williams emphasized in her closing remarks. “It’s our job to provide meaningful programs and services for the community, and that means constantly assessing and adapting to meet their needs.”
With these new insights, attendees left the training inspired to take their recreation programs to the next level—ensuring that Augusta-Richmond County continues to offer high-quality, engaging opportunities for residents of all ages.
