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Lombard Park District 52 Chapter Three Background This chapter documents the recognized trend in the recreation industry and specifi c input received by the Lombard Park District community. The issues, preferences, thoughts, and needs were identifi ed during a series of input sessions and a community-wide survey, as well as by analyzing the level of service information, service area maps, growth projections, demographic characteristics and national and local trends. Data gathered in the Needs Assessment Chapter will be analyzed against data gathered in the Inventory and Analysis Chapter. Research National Trends Understanding park and recreation trends helps to determine probable demands for services and amenities. Recreation trend reports were compiled from credible sources to explore what trends are being recognized at the national level. Trends in park agency functions, such as responsibilities, staffi ng, volunteers, budgeting, programming, and operations and maintenance are also described. In 2012, the Sporting Goods Manufacturer's Association (SGMA), now known as the Sporting & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), commissioned a statistically valid survey of over 38,000 Americans to fi nd out what physical activities they participate in - both indoor and outdoor. The report measured participation in 119 sports and activities and weighs the results against a total population of 283,753,000 ages six years and up. The following variables were used: gender, age, income, household size, region, and population density. The survey reveals that 76% of Americans have participated in some activity in the last 4 years; however, the general trend is that Americans have become more inactive with the rate of inactivity increasing from 21.5 percent in 2007 to 23.9 percent in 2011. Inactivity increased among young adults aged 18 to 24 and 35 to 54. Conversely, inactivity rates fell slightly among children ages 6 to 12 from 16.6 percent in 2010 to 16 percent in 2011. This decrease may be a result of eff orts towards the fi ght against childhood obesity. Additionally, for adolescents ages 13 to 17, inactivity fell from 16.7 percent to 16.4 percent which, although modest, is a positive step in the right direction. For those ages 18 to 24 and adults 35 to 54 however, inactivity increased. Notably; however, the State of Illinois ranks 10th among the most active states in the nation at 53.6%. Chapter Three: Needs Assessment Lombard Lagoon