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.
Island Community: Helping Hands Restore Deerfield Island Park
By Cheri Gagné and Kelton P. Harvey | Posted on June 17, 2025
Nestled in the heart of South Florida’s urban landscape, Deerfield Island Park is a 53-acre natural oasis that serves as a refuge for native wildlife and a sanctuary for rare coastal ecosystems.
Park Restoration Preserves Historical Ecology and Human History in Houston
By Kelli Ondracek and Barbara Kapustin | Posted on June 11, 2025
For one Houston park, preservation of natural ecosystems perfectly aligns with preserving the history of its former human inhabitants.
Why We Must Keep Investing in Parks
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on June 10, 2025
Budget constraints are real — but so are the costs of disinvestment. Investing in parks and recreation is a high-return strategy for public health, environmental resilience, safety, and economic vitality.
Centering Community and Connection at Anacostia Park — Episode 169
By Cort Jones and Christina High | Posted on May 27, 2025
On this episode of Open Space Radio, we recap our trip to NatureFest, a lively week-long celebration at Anacostia Park that provides a safe, engaging space for kids and their families to explore nature, have fun and create lasting memories during D.C. Public Schools’ Spring Break.