The California Association of Recreation and Park Districts, CARPD, is a 501c(6), not-for-profit organization representing special recreation and park districts throughout California. 

CARPD has been dedicated to improving the quality and efficiency of recreation and park districts. Through the joint powers authority, California Association for Park and Recreation Indemnity ("CAPRI"), CARPD members are eligible for reduced rates on Workers' Compensation Coverage and Liability/Property Damage Insurance; saving local communities thousands of dollars.

The Board of Directors is made up of representatives from CARPD recreation and park districts and tracks legislation and other issues that affect member districts. Each spring, CARPD hosts an annual conference and presents awards to member districts to recognize outstanding programming, facilities, and services to the community.

Involvement in CARPD is accomplished through the active participation of agency board and staff members. CARPD operations and services are supported by a sliding fee structure based upon tax revenue or assessments, member agency contributions, and revenues generated by various association programs.

Our Mission

CARPD provides its member recreation and park agencies with advocacy, education, and support enabling them to fulfill essential life-enhancing services for their local communities.

CARPD Goals

• Recognize and support the needs of members;
• Promote and support new and established partnerships among district and regional community groups, as well as federal, state, and local governments;
• Monitor, promote, and support legislation that positively affects members; and
• Advocate and support stable service funding sources for members.
• Provide an annual conference offering quality education, professional development opportunities and an awards recognition program for member agencies and their leadership.