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To cap off what has been an incredible 2023 for NRPA and Parks & Recreation, the Magazine team and colleagues on the NRPA Marketing and Engagement team are sharing the Top 5 read Parks & Recreation columns and feature articles, along with the most listened to Open Space Radio podcast episodes and most viewed social media posts produced this year. What’s more, we’re revealing our editors’ picks for best covers, articles and inspiring park and recreation stories that have appeared in the publication.
Covers
Columns
- “Being a Good Leader Means Being an Advocate” – Advocacy (February)
- “Embracing Generational Diversity to Cultivate an Effective Workplace” – Conservation (February)
- “Get Active!” – Health and Wellness (February)
- “Reaching an Underserved Population Through Esports Programs” – Equity (February)
- “Parks and Recreation Builds Sustainable, Resilient Communities” – Conservation (July)
Feature Articles
- “30 Under 30 for 2023” (February)
- “Workforce Development Trends and Opportunities in Parks and Recreation” (February)
- “Turning the Tide for At-Risk Youth” (February)
- “Top Trends in Parks and Recreation for 2023” (January)
- “Simulation-Based Public Engagement” (July)
Open Space Radio Podcast Episodes
- “On a Cross-Country Mission to Advocate for Trans Rights” — Episode 132
- “Advancing Resilient Park Access in Lynnwood, Washington” — Episode 140
- “On a Journey to Spread Good Vibes and the Healing Power of Nature” — Episode 129
- “Parks and Recreation Workforce Development Trends and Opportunities” — February Bonus Episode
- “Honoring National Day of Racial Healing” — Episode 127
Inspiring Park and Recreation Stories
- “Facilitating Happiness and Humor” – Park Bench (May)
- “Increasing Art Access Through Parks and Recreation” – Equity (May)
- “Finding My Path to Parks and Recreation” – We Are Parks and Recreation (February)
- “From Lifeguard to First Responder” – We Are Parks and Recreation (March)
- “Accessible Water Sports for Older Adults” – Park Bench (March)
Editors’ Picks
- “Where Community Grows and Thrives” (July)
- “Overcoming Barriers to Park Equity” (September)
- “Turning the Tide for At-Risk Youth” (February)
- “Tourism and Parks: Better Together” (August)
- “Planning for Equitable Greening” (November)
Social Media Posts
- Earth Day Celebration – X (April 21)
- Creating an Inclusive Environment While You Wait – LinkedIn (March 11)
- 30 Under 30 Is Here – Facebook (January 26)
- The Park – Instagram – (April 24)
- Your Park Can Be Anything – Instagram (April 12)