Features

Rooted in the Senses, Designed for All

The Joy Evans Therapeutic Recreation Center in Washington, D.C., represents the future of healing-centered public infrastructure.

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Taking Recreation Centers From Underperforming to High Performing

Consider a practical framework to renew recreation centers that aren’t meeting community needs and interests.

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Indoor Play

Indoor recreation spaces provide families with reliable places to play throughout all seasons and weather conditions.

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Additional Articles

Restoring Trust in Government Starts in Our Parks

Consider how park and recreation agencies can build trust in government through meaningful community engagement.

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Indoor Spaces Are More Than Recreation

Learn how indoor recreation spaces bring people of all ages together, particularly when weather conditions limit outdoor recreation.

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Designing Park Structures That Last

When designing park structures, consider the climate and usage before deciding on materials.

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Santa Barbara Builds a Culture of Water Competence

By aligning programs and workforce development, City of Santa Barbara, California, has refined its approach to water safety.

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The Social Life

Adult sports give people opportunities to continue high school or college athletic careers and engage in recreation and socialization.

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Protecting Cemeteries Through Thoughtful Perimeter Design

The restoration of the Pinecrest and I.A. Banks cemeteries demonstrates how thoughtful infrastructure improvements can preserve local assets while strengthening community pride.

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Galaxy Park’s Community-First Playbook

Affordable court-time pricing at Galaxy Park increases access for all, attracting families, community groups, and beginner and traditional sports players.

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Playgrounds Are Not What They Used to Be, and That’s a Good Thing

Today’s playgrounds invite children to challenge themselves through innovative designs that mitigate risk.

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Don’t Let Hiring Haunt You — Use the NRPA Career Center

Here are some reasons why NRPA members should be using the NRPA Career Center to help them recruit talented individuals.

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Listening to Your Community

City of Winooski, Vermont, renovated Kenneth Myers Memorial Public Pool in collaboration with community members.

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A Scary Good Learning Experience Is Lurking Around the Corner

Embrace opportunities for professional development through NRPA’s new learning management system.

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Expanding the Reach of Community Living Rooms

Discover tips for making recreation centers more welcoming “third places.” 

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Local Recreation Centers Provide Important Amenities

Learn about the myriad amenities provided by local recreation centers that people value most.

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Paving the Way

Explore strategies to win federal grants alongside successful examples from City of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation.

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Prevent Bullying Through Youth Mentoring

By building trust and helping youth develop emotional coping skills, bullying can be reduced while kindness and acceptance grow.

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Discovering the Next Paralympic Athlete in Your Parks

Learn how park and recreation professionals can connect people with physical disabilities to lifechanging adaptive sports opportunities.

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Are Your Facilities Prepared to Weather the Storms?

Park and recreation agencies are increasingly supporting community resilience.

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Designing Recreation Facilities for Hygiene, Durability and Water Safety

While often overlooked, the performance and design of plumbing fittings can significantly impact how efficiently and reliably a recreation facility operates.

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Founders Park Blends Tradition and Innovation

Sustainable operations support the success of Founder’s Park in Hempfield Township, Pennsylvania.

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Moorhead, Minnesota, Builds Universal Pool Locker Room

City of Moorhead, Minnesota, opted for universal locker rooms at its renovated Moorhead Municipal Pool to better welcome and accommodate all community members.

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Innovative Coatings Support Urban Sustainability

Silicone-based anti-graffiti coating at Bandemer Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan, protects surfaces from unauthorized markings, improving maintenance operations.

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Unplug Illinois Day: Creating Connections Through Recreation

Unplug Illinois Day encourages people to step away from screens and reconnect through recreation, nature and meaningful time together.

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