Features
Something to Talk About
Mastering the art of public speaking can be very rewarding and extremely useful. Explore best practices that can help build confidence and effectively engage community members to successfully communicate and impart industry expertise in a clear, concise manner.
Addressing Public Injection and Syringe Disposal in NYC Parks
New York City Parks launched a pilot program to combat a growing byproduct of the opioid epidemic — syringe refuse in parks. Every syringe collected represented a risk not just to the public and staff, but also to those individuals suffering from addiction.
Additional Articles
Building an Effective and Innovative Workforce
NRPA’s Innovation Labs, along with other progressive NRPA education, certification and training programs, are workforce investments which help to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
How Are You Leading?
In this issue, take a closer look at the skills and courage required to be an effective leader in the field of parks and recreation.
Fed Measures the Impact of Parks and Rec
Sharing highlights from two industry-related data series from the federal government - one celebrates outdoor recreation’s contribution to the GDP and the other notes recent investment trends.
Park Pulse – The Importance of Learning to Swim at a Young Age
Majority of Americans believe teaching young children to swim is important. Local park and recreation agencies provide access to low-cost aquatics programming in communities nationwide.
The Digital Transformation of Parks and Rec
Park and rec directors are encouraged to embrace technology to efficiently run their facilities and engage their communities in our tech-driven world.
Professional Growth for Industry Success
Explore the importance of providing young professionals with the preparation needed to excel in their current position and to prepare them for future opportunities.
Seattle, Washington’s Camp Long Great American CampOut
A city park in Seattle hosted the ninth and 10th Great American CampOuts, which provided a free overnight weekend retreat for 46 families, most of whom live in public housing in the surrounding neighborhoods.
‘Hey, Can I Advocate?’
Learn why your knowledge of how parks and recreation impacts the community you serve can inform decision makers about making better public policy.
Shallow Water Diving Injury Contributory Negligence Defense
Examining a case in North Carolina regarding the dangers of shallow water diving and how “contributory negligence,” can contribute to injuries.
Protecting and Managing Parklands to Reduce Wildfire Risks
East Bay Regional Park District, the largest regional park agency in the country, works to reduce the risk of wildfire in the complex fire landscape of Northern California.
Protect the Health and Wellness of Your Park and Recreation Staff
NRPA staff members interview park and recreation agencies on the benefits of prioritizing employee health and wellness.
Introducing the Parks for Inclusion Policy Guide, Because Everyone Is Welcome at Parks
Learn about NRPA’s best practices guide for developing an inclusion policy to foster an environment where everyone feels welcomed, safe and respected.
Helping to Advance Pollinator Health
NRPA’s Parks for Pollinators campaign strives to raise awareness about the current pollinator crisis. Review the results of two pollinator crisis-related surveys to see where the public stands on this topic.
Some FAQs about the Gold Medal Awards
NRPA shares the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions related to applying for the Gold Medal Awards.
Time to Apply for an NRPA Award
The NRPA Awards program highlights the most innovative and creative programs and initiatives in parks and recreation and honors the best and brightest in the field. Deadline for entries is March 29.
My Journey to Becoming a CPRE
Shannon Sonnier, Johnson County Parks & Recreation Sports and Facilities Manager, shares his experience of becoming a CPRE.
Developing Transformational Leadership Skills
Are you looking for a flexible, convenient way to develop or hone your leadership skills? Look no further than NRPA’s Leadership Certificate.
Richard ‘Dick’ Moe: A Life Lived with Gratitude
A true advocate for parks and recreation who worked at the local, state and national level, we remember Dr. Richard Moe.
Call for NRPA Board of Directors Nominations
NRPA is calling for nominations from both professional and citizen leaders who are passionate about parks, recreation and environmental conservation.
Parks & Recreation Crossword: 2019, February
Test your park and recreation knowledge and download NRPA's monthly crossword puzzle!
Member Benefit: New Year, New Employees?
It’s a new year and it’s time to start thinking about hiring qualified individuals for your open positions!
Member Spotlight: Patti Machado
Patti Machado of the Town of Barnstable, MA shares her passion for her hometown and the launch of a free afterschool program at their youth center.
Three Tips for Becoming a Certified Park and Recreation Professional
The CPRP designation shows your knowledge and understanding of key concepts within parks and rec as well as your commitment to the profession.
Getting More Eyes on Your Playground Safety
Learn the dangers of uninspected or unmaintained playgrounds and NRPA’s answers: The Playground Maintenance and Playground Safety Instructor Certificates.
Parks Helping Parks
Bexar Parks Division stepped in during the recent government shutdown to assist with maintenance at the San Antonio Missions.