For an enhanced digital experience, read this story in the ezine.
The 2020 NRPA Annual Conference is going virtual, and we’ve still got it all! In addition to the highly anticipated general sessions, education offerings and exhibit hall, we also will continue to provide some favorite conference events through our virtual platform, as well as some new events and programming. Here are a few of the exciting virtual programs that will be available to attendees during the 2020 NRPA Annual Conference: A Virtual Experience (NRPA Virtual).
Race Your Way into Conference with the Virtual 5K
Join us for the NRPA Virtual 5K Race — a race you can run, walk or roll at any location and at your own pace. You can head to your favorite park or trail, walk in your neighborhood or around your home, race alone or in a group with family, friends or coworkers.
After registering online, you will be able to download your race bib and finisher’s certificate. You also will receive a special NRPA Virtual 5K race medal in the mail! And, once you complete the virtual race, don’t forget to share your accomplishment on social media. Take a selfie wearing your hard-earned medal and share it with us using #NRPAVirtual.
Celebrate This Year’s NRPA Award Honorees at the Virtual Best of the Best Ceremony
While the 2020 Best of the Best awards ceremony won’t look the same as in years past, it still will be a fun and engaging way to recognize some of the best park and recreation professionals in the field. The virtual ceremony will be hosted by our emcee, Neelay Bhatt, vice president and principal at PROS Consulting, and will recognize and celebrate the most inspirational people and programs in the park and recreation profession. Recognized at the ceremony will be the 2020 Innovation and Spotlight Awards, Young Professional Fellows, Diversity and Student Scholarship recipients, and newly accredited and reaccredited park and recreation agencies. NRPA Virtual attendees are welcome to attend the ceremony at 7 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, October 28, from the comfort of their home. Make sure to BYOBAH (bring your own beverage and hors d’oeuvres)!
Learn More About the 2020 Parks Build Community Project at the PBC Booth
Each year, as part of its Parks Build Community (PBC) initiative, NRPA conducts a complete park makeover in partnership with park equipment manufacturers and community organizations within the city hosting the NRPA Annual Conference. This year, although the NRPA Annual Conference transitioned to a virtual event due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NRPA, along with its donor partners and the city of Orlando (Florida) Families, Parks and Recreation Department, remained committed to seeing through the 10th NRPA PBC project at Orlando, Florida’s Grand Avenue Park. During NRPA Virtual, a PBC booth will be available for attendees to learn more about the 2020 PBC project and the partnerships that made it possible.