This achievement reflects the dedication of our team and collaboration across city departments to support the wellbeing of our residents.”

Paul Frie | assistant director of Surprise Parks & Recreation

The city of Surprise was recognized among the ranks of elite park and recreation agencies internationally by earning reaccreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies and the National Recreation and Park Association.

This distinguished accomplishment was awarded in October during the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference in Atlanta.

Accreditation shows that the Surprise Parks and Recreation Department demonstrates proper practices and procedures in administration of our parks, facilities and programs, highlighting a high standard of service for the community.

The accreditation process included a formal application, self-assessments, site visits and a review by a commission of industry representatives.

“We are thrilled to receive this recognition,” said Paul Frie, assistant director of Surprise Parks and Recreation. “This achievement reflects the dedication of our team and collaboration across city departments to support the wellbeing of our residents.”

CAPRA accreditation is the only national accreditation for park and recreation agencies and is a measure of an agency’s overall quality of operation, management and service to the community.

This mark of distinction indicates that an agency has met rigorous standards related to the management and administration of lands, facilities, resources, programs, safety and services.

For information about CAPRA accreditation, visit nrpa.org/CAPRA.