By Nikki Taylor, CPRP
Image Courtesy: The National Recreation and Parks Association
As a recreation program coordinator and assistant director, I've come to realize the significance of the relationships I've built with private program vendors over the past decade. It's not just about having employees and volunteers; collaborating with vendors plays a crucial role in offering well-rounded programming to your community.
To ensure success, it is essential to maintain positive connections with these vendors. Supporting and engaging in their programs as they work both in and beyond your community is key. By doing so, you not only expand your seasonal offerings but also enhance the opportunities available to the public.
Seeking Vendors and References
When considering new and exciting programming for your community, collaboration and seeking recommendations are initial steps. Reach out to other recreation departments and colleagues, gathering feedback about their vendor partnerships. Inquire about the quality of their programming, instructors, and professionalism. A strong vendor relationship goes beyond creative ideas and encompasses all aspects of a professional partnership. Ensure that any potential vendor has been properly vetted before entering into a partnership.
Communication and Setting Clear Expectations
Program vendors work with numerous communities and various recreation departments, each with unique characteristics. Never assume that a vendor understands how your community or program operates. It is vital to provide them with a comprehensive breakdown and orientation regarding your expectations and policies. Share these policies in writing and ensure that vendors communicate them to their instructors. Regularly check-in with on-site staff to make sure they are aware of your expectations and offer your support. By clearly communicating your expectations and providing site-specific plans, vendors can ensure that their staff knows exactly what is expected in your community.
Building Bridges for Private Program Vendors
When you encounter a special vendor with exceptional programming, don't keep it to yourself. Help these private vendors expand by sharing their successes with surrounding communities. Offer references to vendors who have enriched your community. By supporting vendors in your area, you contribute to the growth of their company and allow their unique offerings to thrive in your community.
Embrace Vendors in Your Community
A wise mentor once compared a recreation department to a piece of fabric, where individual threads are woven together to create strength. Each vendor is like a thread contributing to the department's tapestry. Thinking of vendors and their programs as an integral part of your fabric, rather than just contractors, fosters a sense of community within your department. Strong programming is a vital component of building a close-knit and vibrant community.
Remember, maintaining positive relationships with private program vendors is crucial to the success of your recreation department. Actively engaging in their programs, seeking references, clear communication, and embracing vendors as part of your community will establish a strong foundation and ensure your department's continued growth.
This blog post was written in partnership with the NRPA Young Professionals Network (YPN). Learn more about the NRPA YPN on NRPA Connect or on the YPN Facebook group.
