Highlighting The Power of Youth Sports in Philadelphia
By Allison Colman | Posted on May 4, 2026
Join us for the first-ever Youth Sports in Parks and Recreation Summit at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia as we rally around the power of parks and recreation in creating transformative sports experiences for young people.
Reclaiming Space for Community, Recreation and Respite
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on May 1, 2026
Finding land for new parks is becoming one of the biggest challenges facing urban communities. Rather than relying solely on vacant parcels, agencies are reclaiming land shaped by legacy infrastructure, industrial uses and public systems.
Supporting the Strength of Military Families Through Mentorship and Golf
By Dr. Thelma Tennie | Posted on April 10, 2026
Carter's Spectrum Golf Mentoring Program is proud to celebrate military children who demonstrate remarkable resilience every day, and is committed to supporting their growth both on and off the course.
I Raised Her to Love the Game — Now I Need the Game to Love Her Back
By Brian McFadden | Posted on April 2, 2026
When park and recreation professionals build a girls-only program, it isn't just filling a gap in a schedule. It’s sending a message that girls belong here, that their development matters and that the community has invested in their future.
The Power of Camp
By Jamie Bass, CPRP | Posted on March 18, 2026
After working as a counselor, camp director, and camp manager — as well as being a parent of a young camper — Jamie Bass knows the importance of summer camp for kids, especially in today's world.
Theme Parks, Public Parks and the Power of Place
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on March 18, 2026
Public parks do not need to replicate the scale or spectacle of a theme park to remain relevant. Their strength lies in accessibility, authenticity and everyday connection.
The Power of Your Stories: Inside the Park and Recreation Month Cover Contest — Episode 176
By Cara Myers, Christina High and Cort Jones | Posted on March 3, 2026
With submissions now open for this year’s Park and Recreation Month Cover Contest, this episode of Open Space Radio looks back at a few stories from last year that stayed with us.
Table Tennis and Where Generations Meet
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on February 9, 2026
A single table tennis table can activate a community room, a park pavilion, or a corner of a recreation center.
The Quiet Work of Leadership
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on January 12, 2026
The quiet work of leadership does not always draw attention, but it shapes decisions, relationships and outcomes in lasting ways. In fields devoted to shared spaces, public service and community well-being, recognizing and making room for quieter leadership is essential.
The Reciprocal Benefits of Mentorship in Bainbridge Island
By Sierra Cross | Posted on January 7, 2026
Through developing lasting relationships with students, Student Conservation Corps staff help students succeed in and out of Bainbridge Island Metro Parks.
“Environmentally-Friendly Park Management” Published by Sasaki and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
By Chris Hardy | Posted on November 20, 2025
“Environmentally-Friendly Park Management” is a guide that helps park and recreation agencies achieve their sustainability goals.
NRPA Tracking Impacts of Federal Shutdown
By Kyle Simpson | Posted on November 13, 2025
On November 12, Congress passed a stopgap spending package that officially ended the 44-day government shutdown — the longest in U.S. history.
Celebrating the Heart of Youth Sports: Coach Appreciation Month
By Brian McFadden | Posted on October 22, 2025
Every October, Coach Appreciation Month gives us a chance to pause and honor the individuals who dedicate their time, energy and heart to shaping the next generation through sports.
What Is a Training Grant and Why Should I Apply?
By Colleen Pittard | Posted on October 6, 2025
Training grants are grants that do not always provide funds, but instead provide training, coaching and technical assistance. Since 2016, NRPA has been offering instructor training grants for evidenced-based physical activity programs and we just opened applications for another round!
The Importance of Walking Paths
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on August 19, 2025
Walking paths are simple, low-cost features that deliver enormous benefits, from health and well-being to social connection and environmental awareness.
Promises Kept: Parks and Progress in Uncertain Times
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on July 25, 2025
This Parks and Recreation Month, we celebrate more than just facilities and programs — we honor the perseverance and partnerships it takes to bring them to life. Because when we build together and play together, we do not just weather hard times — we rise above them.
From Dumping Ground to Pollinator Playground: Big Marsh Park Is Buzzing with Life
By Jamie Herget and Naureen Rana | Posted on July 15, 2025
Almost two years after receiving the NRPA Danaher Biodiversity grant, the Chicago Park District has seen real, lasting change at Big Marsh Park.
A Decade of Impact: Celebrating 10 Years of the Swoosh Summer Academy in Chicago
By Allison Colman | Posted on July 8, 2025
The Chicago Park District, the Center for Healing and Justice through Sport, and Nike recently came together to celebrate a powerful milestone: 10 years of the Swoosh Summer Academy.