CAPRA accreditation sets the national standard for excellence in parks and recreation and agencies that go through the process are really committing to operating at the highest level across everything they do.

From strengthening day-to-day operations to helping agencies plan for the future, CAPRA accreditation plays an important role in delivering the best possible services to our communities.

On the latest episode of Open Space Radio, we explore how CAPRA accreditation is shaping park and recreation agencies, leadership and communities across the country. We also dive into how the newly reimagined 2027 CAPRA standards are helping make accreditation more adaptable and accessible for agencies of all sizes.

Joining us for the conversation are three leaders with deep experience in the CAPRA process:

• Janet Bartnik, director of parks and recreation for Prince William County, Virginia, and member of the CAPRA standards reimagination team (and currently serving as deputy chief transformation officer for the Prince William County Transformation Management Office)
• Chris Bass, director of parks and recreation for DeKalb County, Georgia, and former CAPRA Commission chair
• Ray Bivens, director of recreation and parks for St. Mary’s County, Maryland, and current CAPRA Commission chair

Together, they share insights on what CAPRA accreditation looks like in practice, how it shapes agency culture and leadership, and why it should be viewed as more than just a checklist or designation. Tune in to the full episode below to learn:

• How CAPRA accreditation helps agencies build a culture of continuous improvement
• Why the updated 2027 standards are designed to be more flexible and adaptable for agencies of all types
• The unexpected benefits of accreditation, from staff development to recruitment and retention
• How accredited agencies use CAPRA standards in their day-to-day operations, not just during accreditation reviews
• And much more!

Listen to the episode for the full story.

You can also listen on your preferred podcast streaming service here.

Ready to experience the power of CAPRA at your own agency?

Check out The Power of CAPRA Accreditation to access a helpful toolkit so you can make the case for CAPRA within your organization. And, from May 20 through July 31, 2026, agencies beginning the CAPRA accreditation process will receive a waived application fee — a $130 value. To qualify, agencies must submit their CAPRA application and complete the checkout process by July 31, 2026.

Have feedback about this episode or Open Space Radio overall? Share it with us!

If you enjoyed this episode or learned something that might help you make a positive impact in your community, please consider donating to NRPA. Your gift will support our storytelling efforts and our mission to advance parks, recreation and environmental resilience efforts that enhance the quality of life for all. Give today at nrpa.org/donate.

This season of Open Space Radio is sponsored by:

Outdoor play creates opportunities for connection, creativity and growth. At BCI Burke, they design play environments that inspire exploration and support the high standards park and recreation professionals strive for — including CAPRA accreditation — helping create spaces where everyone feels welcome to move, play and belong.

Learn more at bciburke.com

Thanks to BCI Burke for supporting this episode and for their continued commitment to Play That Moves You®.