The Power of Physical Activity in Hobbs, New Mexico
By Paula Drake | Posted on June 29, 2026
At the CORE (Center of Recreational Excellence) in Hobbs, New Mexico, the Homeschool PE program provides structured physical education for children who lack access to traditional gym classes, helping families fulfill necessary state curriculum requirements.
The Power of Nature: How Pelican Park Is Inspiring Exploration, Learning and Conservation
By Niki Butler | Posted on June 26, 2026
In Mandeville, Louisiana, Pelican Park’s Power of Nature program reflects how parks and recreation can deepen a community’s relationship with the natural world.
Celebrating Park and Recreation Month 2026 in Citrus County: Where Everyone Plays
By Alice Mary Herden | Posted on June 25, 2026
For Citrus County (Florida) Parks and Recreation, Park and Recreation Month 2026 marks an exciting new chapter. It's an opportunity to celebrate alongside the community while sharing the mission and vision that guide the work they do every day.
The Volunteer Screening Mistake Most Park and Recreation Agencies Don’t Catch
By Emma Baucom | Posted on June 24, 2026
Modernizing volunteer screening isn’t about adding complexity. It’s about reducing administrative strain, closing compliance gaps, and strengthening community trust.
From the Field to the Future: How Communities Are Building the Coaching Pipeline
By Kent Hunt | Posted on June 23, 2026
We're excited to introduce the newest grantees in our Building the Coaching Pipeline initiative, supported by GameChanger. These communities are working to strengthen existing pathways and create new ones into coaching, using thoughtful and innovative strategies.
When a Badge and a Whistle Show up for the Same Kid
By Maureen Neumann | Posted on June 22, 2026
Park and recreation professionals and police officers may not always seem like natural partners. But when they work together around a belief that young people deserve better than what their circumstances hand them, something durable is built.
The Power of Leading With Empathy — Episode 179
By Cort Jones and Christina High | Posted on June 16, 2026
On the latest episode of Open Space Radio, we chat with Shannon Harris, CPRE, CPO, about what it means to lead with empathy and why people-centered leadership can have a lasting impact on teams, organizations and our communities as a whole.
Summer Camp Success in Parks and Recreation
By Maureen Neumann | Posted on June 11, 2026
Park and recreation agencies across the country are gearing up for another whirlwind of summer, hosting camps, programs, and events. Here's what you’re seeing on the ground as park and recreation professionals.
Why the NRPA Annual Conference Makes Me Smile
By Trista Taylor, CPRP, CPO | Posted on June 8, 2026
If there’s one thing Trista Taylor has learned, it’s that some of the most impactful experiences at the NRPA Annual Conference happen in the moments you never plan for.
Finding Magic at the NRPA Annual Conference
By Ashley Faulcon, MPA, CPRP | Posted on June 4, 2026
For those who live and breathe parks and recreation, the NRPA Annual Conference isn’t just another conference — it’s a return to the magic that started it all.
The Power of Partnerships
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on June 3, 2026
Partnerships are playing an increasingly important role in helping park agencies meet growing public expectations and community needs. Los Angeles offers several examples of what these partnerships look like in practice.
From Fireworks to Funding: Turning a Fourth of July Event Into a Regional Impact Engine
By Brandon D'Alimonte | Posted on June 2, 2026
Planning your Fourth of July celebration? At its best, it can do more than bring people together for a single evening. It can serve as a platform for investment, inclusion and measurable community impact.