Pictured: Jason McCray (left), assistant director for Lancaster County Parks and Recreation, and Chris Allen, parks and recreation director for Town of Archer Lodge, at the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference in Atlanta.

For the past three years, I’ve dedicated more than 16 hours of my life each fall to volunteering at the NRPA Annual Conference. Some might call that a commitment — others might call it a questionable life choice. Either way, I keep coming back — stuffing bags like a champion the weekend before, serving as a floor captain, and (regretfully) hosting a session the morning after the BCI Burke Party.

Trust me, announcing a panel while sounding like a raspy frog on three hours of sleep was not my finest moment. Lesson learned.

Each year, volunteering gives me the chance to meet an incredible mix of professionals — seasoned veterans and first-timers alike. I do my best to welcome them all with laughter. And, of course, Chris Allen, who is the parks and recreation director for Town of Archer Lodge, and I are usually together. He’s the Robin to my Batman … or maybe more like the Alfred, keeping things moving while I pretend to be in charge.

Speaking of Chris, let’s address the great Pod One vs. Pod Two debate at the speed session pods. We all know Pod Two was superior. The host was amazing, the sessions were top-tier, and the vibes were unmatched. Meanwhile, Chris was over in Pod One running speed sessions like a personal trainer with too much caffeine. Slow down, Chris. Not everyone is training for a decathlon.

This year, I’m looking forward to connecting with even more park and rec professionals, swapping stories and learning from some of the best minds in our field. The trends are always shifting, and the hallway conversations, lunch debates and late-night chats make it all worthwhile.

If you see me in Orlando, don’t hesitate to shout my name from across the exhibit hall — I’ll answer and introduce you to everyone. And if you’re feeling competitive, join our annual business card challenge. The rules? You can only collect a card from someone you’ve actually had a real conversation with. No drive-by hellos allowed.

I’ve beaten Chris two years running. Think you can take down the champ?

If you’re attending the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference, you should definitely consider volunteering. See you in Orlando!

Jason McCray, M.S, CPRP, CYSA, is the assistant director for Lancaster County Parks and Recreation.