Fostering an LGBTQ+ Inclusive Environment in Parks and Recreation — Episode 094
By Cort Jones | Posted on June 29, 2021
On the latest episode of Open Space Radio, we’re joined by Peyton O’Conner, AICP, CPRE, CNP, CYSA (they/she), the parks and recreation director for Buncombe County in Asheville, North Carolina, to discuss building LGBTQ+ inclusive environments in parks and recreation.
A Pathway to Trans Inclusion in Youth Sports
By Teresa Morrissey and Allison Colman | Posted on June 25, 2021
Following a record-breaking year of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, park and recreation professionals have a unique opportunity to positively influence norms, practices and policies to create a youth sports culture that is inclusive and welcoming to all.
Supporting Inclusive Health Through Parks and Recreation
By Maureen Neumann | Posted on June 22, 2021
In partnership with Special Olympics, NRPA has developed three key resources specifically detailing ways in which park and recreation professionals can ensure that facilities and programs are inclusive and welcoming to all, especially those with intellectual disabilities.
Our Park and Recreation Story: How One Family Finds Peace in Parks — July Bonus Episode
By Cort Jones | Posted on June 17, 2021
On the July bonus episode of Open Space Radio, we're chatting with Jenna Brinkman and Craig Pattenaude of Cosumnes Community Services District and David Phommavong, the father of the child in the cover photo of the July issue of Parks & Recreation magazine.
Driving Food Access in Partnership and Power with Community
By Maureen Neumann | Posted on June 16, 2021
Whether it be partnerships to help inform strategies and offerings, assessments to delve into the wants and needs of community members, or establishing new practices and policies to ensure the voices of those who have not always had a seat at the table, community engagement and decision-making authority is key to program sustainability — and more importantly, to advancing equity and community health and wellbeing.
Why the Essence of Equity-Centered Work Is Organizational Change — Episode 093
By Cort Jones | Posted on June 15, 2021
On the latest episode of Open Space Radio, we’re joined by Mickey Fearn, who has been a park and recreation professional for more than 50 years, to discuss his extensive career in equity-related work.
The Importance of Community-Based Workforce Development
By Ayanna Williams | Posted on June 11, 2021
NRPA recently developed two resources to help you explore what workforce development is, what it can be for the field of parks and recreation, and how we can reflect on developing or renovating equitable community-based workforce development programs. Learn about and access the resources here.
Are We Building People — or Just Running Programs?
By Tim Herd, CPRE | Posted on June 7, 2021
Tim Herd, CPRE, CEO of Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society, believes that we can't merely insist that parks and recreation is essential, we must intentionally demonstrate it — and prove it!
Why We Should Applaud Naomi Osaka's Mental Health Decision
By Allison Colman and Teresa Morrissey | Posted on June 3, 2021
Naomi Osaka, one of the world’s greatest tennis players, was thrust into the spotlight this past weekend during the French Open — not for her 125 mph serve, but for her decision to withdraw from the competition to prioritize her mental health and well-being.
Why Training Park and Recreation Coaches on Social and Emotional Skills is Important
By Jon Solomon | Posted on June 2, 2021
Coaches play a vital role in creating a positive sports experience for youth. In addition to keeping kids safe on the field, coaches and other adults in a child’s life significantly impact a child’s social and emotional development.
Creating a Culture of Transgender Inclusion in Sports — Episode 092
By Cort Jones (he/him) and Roxanne Sutton (she/her) | Posted on June 1, 2021
On this episode of Open Space Radio, we're joined by Chris Mosier (he/him), a trailblazing athlete, coach and the founder of TransAthlete.com, to discuss transgender inclusion in sports and how park and recreation professionals can take action on more inclusive policies.