The National Recreation and Parks Association

Across the nation’s small towns, park and recreation professionals build healthy, connected and resilient communities.

Learn how the Washington, D.C., Parks and Recreation Community Garden Program has evolved to support nutrition access.

Consider how strategic investments in parks support public health.

Explore how park activation can maximize health benefits for community members and unlock creative program ideas.

Learn how leading with empathy helps build resilient communities.

The park and recreation professionals who get the most out of their parks are usually the ones willing to look at difficult terrain and underused shoreline as an opportunity instead of a limitation.

Lessons on leadership, planning, initiative and commitment learned from working on a farm can translate well to park and recreation leadership.

The Florida burrowing owl has won the hearts of Cape Coral (Florida) community members, in part due to public eduation programs.

Hill at Sims, a 100-acre park in Houston, integrates recreation, flood protection and environmental resilience.

Learn how Henry County (Georgia) Parks and Recreation staff have navigated tough budgeting situations.

Invest in your career by pursuing certifications through NRPA.

Park and recreation leaders can keep part-time staff engaged by investing in staff members and supporting their professional development.

By identifying and eliminating constraints around youth sports participation, park and recreation professionals can increase fair access for all.

Learn how existing programs can be tailored to become opportunities for intergenerational connection.

Learn how Colorado’s South Suburban Park and Recreation District is increasing access to youth sports.

Consider how park and recreation professionals continuously evaluate and improve their stewardship efforts.

In the case of Feet Forward-Peer Supportive Services and Outreach v. City of Boulder, Plaintiffs challenged the enforcement of municipal ordinances that banned residents of Boulder, Colorado, from sheltering on public property, including public parks. 

Today’s residents expect dog parks that are safe, well maintained, convenient and accountable.

Just as we design playgrounds to be accessible spaces that serve visitors of all abilities, our digital spaces should maintain the same standard.

Taking the time to go into the community and understand the needs, wishes and struggles within the green spaces we steward will not only help them, but also the generations to come.

The Joe Delaney Learn to Swim Program is a vital community initiative dedicated to increasing water safety, building confidence and expanding access to swim education for individuals of all ages.