The North Vancouver Recreation & Culture (NVRC) Commission’s mandate and strategic plan (vision, values and goals) have recently been updated. The updates have been designed to bring clarity and purpose, and to strengthen NVRC’s impact on the community and people of North Vancouver.

The mandate revisions were recommended by the Commission and approved by both the City of North Vancouver and District of North Vancouver Councils. The strategic plan was revised and approved by the Commission and communicated to the Councils.

The NVRC Commission was established in 1970 through agreement between the City and District, and enables joint planning and delivery of municipal recreation and culture services. The governance of the Commission is comprised of two elected members and one senior staff person from each of the City and the District, and NVRC’s Director, Recreation & Culture.

The revised mandate:

• Expands NVRC’s role in outdoor recreation
• Confirms NVRC as the lead contact for organizations and individuals in all municipal matters related to arts, recreation and sport
• Affirms NVRC’s role as approver of all municipal grants that support arts, recreation and sport
• Strengthens NVRC’s focus on reducing barriers to participation.

Mandate

The District of North Vancouver and City of North Vancouver are committed to a collaborative partnership to provide residents with recreation and arts services that are inclusive, accessible, diverse and affordable and mandate the Commission, on their behalf to:

• Deliver and facilitate accessible recreation and art opportunities that positively impact personal growth, improve health and wellness, provide connections with others, and enhance family cohesion for all North Vancouver residents;
• Minimize barriers to ensure all residents have the opportunity to participate in public services and programs;
• Foster a thriving arts system that enriches the community, offers opportunities for personal experiences and highlights, enhances, showcases and celebrates the unique character of North Vancouver;
• Manage, operate and maintain core facilities;
• Provide recommendations to the municipalities on priority indoor and outdoor facilities, spaces and amenities needed to promote public participation in arts, recreation and sports;
• Oversee the development of policies, plans, strategies and evaluation related to recreation and arts services, spaces, operations, processes and fees in response to changing needs and priorities;
• Approve municipal grants to support arts, recreation and sport. Provide recommendations on applicable grant programs and policies; and
• Provide relevant professional expertise and support to help achieve the municipalities’ roles and visions.

Strategic plan

The strategic plan consists of a new vision statement, values and goals. It aligns with City and District’s plans and NVRC’s revised mandate, and shapes how priorities are set and resources are allocated.

The new vision speaks to the broader impact NVRC aims to have and includes two main components – one related to individuals and the other to the livability and vibrancy of communities.

Vision 
All residents are inspired and supported to be active, creative and engaged with their community, while North Vancouver’s livability and vibrancy are enhanced by a network of inclusive and accessible opportunities and spaces for recreation and arts experiences, celebration, play, learning and connecting.

Values
NVRC’s values guide its decisions, action and interactions – both within and outside the organization. They are a north star for how staff collaborate and work towards the organization’s shared goals.

• We aim to provide easy access for all 
• We value other service providers and complement their efforts 
• We value inclusivity, collaboration and active participation 
• We are committed to being innovative, creative and bold We act with integrity, fostering respectful relationships and supportive environments
• We pursue excellence in service and responsible resource management 
• We rely on data, community feedback and professional expertise to guide decision-making

Goals
NVRC’s goals help focus its efforts and measure its success. These goals are designed to drive impact both within the organization and in the community:

• Provide accessible programs and services to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families 
• Provide and facilitate a range of recreation and arts experiences that enrich the livability and vibrancy of the North Vancouver communities 
• Collaborate with and complement other recreation and arts service providers 
• Promote community connections and a strong sense of belonging 
• Encourage all residents to recognize and appreciate the value of community recreation and arts
• Maximize the potential of a successful partnership between the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver

The new mandate and strategic plan provide a clear path forward to continue to provide and facilitate innovative, quality arts and recreational experiences for the people of North Vancouver. The revised mandate and plan provide clarity on NVRC’s role and responsibilities, and outline how the organization intends to impact and enhance creativity, connection, health and well-being and the vibrancy and livability of our community.