November 2012 - Parks & Recreation - 15

INTERVIEW

S THE SON OF A DIPLOMAT growing up in a theatrical family in Baghdad, Iraq, it's no surprise that Idris Al-Oboudi developed a totally individual view of the world. Fortunately for the residents of Manhattan
Beach, California, where he serves as recreation services manager for the city's
department of parks and recreation, he has used his eclectic experiences to develop a unique philosophy on the role parks and recreation plays in the development of communities. In a more tangible sense, he routinely draws on his artistic,
cultural, and historical backgrounds to develop unusual and exciting programs
for his adopted city.
At a young age, Al-Oboudi's parents
instilled in him a love of the arts that
remains a passion to this day, and by
enrolling him in internationally renowned ballet schools and exposing him to theater, they nurtured his
creativity and encouraged freedom
of expression. Curiosity was also encouraged, and with a bookshelf full of
National Geographics and an offshoot
of the Orient Express running through
his backyard, he naturally developed
an interest in and appreciation for the
global community.
Studying the works of ancient Islamic scholars and modern theorists alike,
Al-Oboudi developed a comprehensive
personal ideology on the importance
of recreation to society. He received
Idris Al-Oboudi
a master's degree in recreation from
Western Michigan University and has
since spent his career working to profor destination. Our existence matters.
vide outlets for leisure for the commuWe are the echo of civilization. "
nities he has served.
Al-Oboudi goes on to explain that
" Article 24 of the [United Nations']
the Arabic word for " sport " and " math "
Human Declaration of Human Rights
is the same-a word that indicates an
states 'Everyone has the right to rest
exercise of either the body or the mind.
and leisure,' " Al-Oboudi quotes. " It is
According to his philosophy, both are of
self-evident that parks make life betcritical importance to human developter. Play, as is learned in parks, is a rement. " Recreation uses a different kind
hearsal of life to come.
of mind muscle: imagination, " he says.
" This trivial description we have of
" It opens up windows to the soul. "
parks and recreation trivializes ourInterview by Danielle Taylor, Associate
selves, " he opines. " We're the reason
Editor, Parks & Recreation (dtaylor@nrpa.
why people travel. We're the inspiration
org).

Test Your Park
& Recreation
Knowledge
The following question is a
sample Certiﬁed Park and
Recreation Professional (CPRP)
examination question.
Residents in an outlying area of
the community have complained
about the lack of program services administered for them. In considering the delivery of services to
these residents, which of the following processes should be completed ﬁrst?
A. Program schedule
B. Needs assessment
C. Program development
D. Facility analysis
Calling all beginning to mid-level
professionals: The Certiﬁed Park
and Recreation Professional (CPRP)
is the national standard for all park
and recreation professionals who
want to be at the forefront of their
profession. For more information
on the CPRP Certiﬁcation program,
please visit www.nrpa.org/cprp.

Answer: B. Needs assessment

A Most Philosophical Approach

LEARNING

WWW.NRPA.ORG | NOVEMBER 2012 |

Parks & Recreation

November 2012 - Parks & Recreation

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