APPLY FOR NEW RECREATION TASK FORCE by 4/16

The Task Force will study and
discuss programming delivered by the City, such as services carried out by the
Recreation Department, the Council on Aging, and the Arts Council, as well as review
programming delivered citywide by traditional private providers such as the
YMCA and by newer organizations offering everything from circus arts to zumba. With
this information as a basis, the Task Force will focus on the recreational
needs of people of all ages and backgrounds.

"Somerville has an extraordinary
richness and variety of activities available to children and adults. But I want
this Task Force to investigate any and all ways that we can ensure we are
thinking creatively and effectively about how to meet resident needs," said
Mayor Curtatone. "The Task Force will ask the questions that will lead us to
the best services: Do residents know about what's available? Where are there
gaps? Are there ways to increase coordination among existing programs? How can
we build on our community's unique strengths?" 

The Task Force will look for
innovative models, but also draw on the storied history of recreation in Somerville.
"Most of us who grew up in Somerville can recall our neighborhood parks as the
center of our universe throughout our childhoods," said Mayor Curtatone. "While
I know that the world has changed and we might not be able to get back to that
exact model, I know that Recreation programming can still greatly enrich the
lives of Somerville residents young and old, that it can strengthen
connections, and that it can help us set and achieve personal goals."

"The next time you leave the
Recreation Building, look up as you walk down the steps," said Recreational
Programming Director George Scarpelli. "You'll see a very old sign that
announces that Somerville Recreation's principal purpose is 'the promotion of
happiness for all the people of Somerville.' While the sign may be old
fashioned, the goal remains at the core of what we still do today. We're
looking forward to the Task Force's idea and recommendations for how to achieve
it in 2014 and beyond."

APPLY BY Wednesday, April 16:

To submit your name to be
considered for appointment to the Task Force, please complete the short form
posted at http://tinyurl.com/SomRecTaskForce
by Wednesday, April 16. The City will work to assemble a group that represents
our diverse community. Task Force meetings will begin in late April and wrap up
by the end of 2014.