Community Recreation Center Initiative (2013)

This is a historical page. This initiative took place circa 2013–2014. For a full record of 4RHC’s past initiatives, visit our Historical Projects page.


Community Recreation Center Initiative

Four Rivers Healthy Community partnered with the Ford Family Foundation’s community change program to explore the possibility of a family recreation center in Ontario, Oregon.


The Initiative

Ford Institute leadership met with an Ontario community action team to assess local interest and need for a family recreation center. The team established a 90-day work plan that included a commitment to listen to 1,000 community residents. Four Rivers Healthy Community facilitated survey research to gather that local input.

Community meetings identified potential community partners, assets, needs, and resources. The process surfaced deep community interest in accessible recreational facilities, particularly for families and youth.

While a community recreation center was not ultimately built, this initiative strengthened 4RHC’s network of partners and deepened our understanding of community infrastructure needs in the Western Treasure Valley.