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developed cities and towns (cite all of previous),In modern <br />times work and study involve primarily mental and cognitive <br />processes, and the use of computers has further focused human <br />productivity indoors. The biophilia hypothesis describes an <br />innate attraction that humans have for nature due to a long <br />history of being directly dependent on living things for basic <br />needs. This deep connection persists, and may explain why the <br />experience of nearby nature may help people perform better in <br />the office or at school (source). <br />PROMOTING COMMUNITY HEALTH <br />Parks and recreation departments build communities by <br />providing a place for people to gather, socialize and be around <br />others. Today, we realize that parks are more than recreation <br />and visual assets to communities; they are valuable contrib- <br />utors to larger community policy objectives, such as public <br />health, youth development, job opportunities, social and <br />cultural exchange, and community building. <br />Parks play a special role for gathering and socialization. They <br />have something to offer everyone from young children and <br />teens, to families, adults and the elderly. They are more than <br />places to recreate and relate to nature; parks also offer a multi- <br />tude of opportunities to engage in arts and music. <br />A park can be a community focal point, a symbol of its vitality <br />and character, adding to its overall health, well-being and <br />quality of life. "Parks and trails provide an outlet for refreshing <br />my spirit and keeping me fit and active"— Parks & Trails Legacy <br />Plan Public Workshop Participant. Community members near <br />parks value them because they give members a feeling that <br />their community is a special place to live and that it is a natural <br />setting in which the community can take pride (Minnesota <br />Legacy). <br />Livability <br />Safer Neighborhoods <br />Safety was a top rated concern for residents of Ramsey (cite <br />survey). Recreation services can be used to provide youth with <br />positive ways to fill out -of -school time and reduce their risk <br />to commit a crime. The department can service students by <br />providing a safe place to go and engage in stimulating activities <br />when school is not in session. Recreation program staff can help <br />staff ensure parks and public spaces are properly maintained <br />for safe use and provide an additional figure outside of home <br />and school for developing youth to look up to. <br />