NRPA's Learning & Professional Development Statement
At NRPA, we work toward a future where all people have access to the benefits of quality parks and recreation. To do that, we strive to provide park and recreation professionals transformative learning experiences that advance their expertise, elevate their impact, learn from and with each other, and strengthen their communities.
Virtual Learning Opportunities
Check out NRPA's latest live and on-demand virtual online learning opportunities.
In-Person Learning Opportunities
Check out our in-person learning and networking opportunities!
Upcoming Live Virtual Events
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Includes a Live Web Event on 11/26/2025 at 2:00 PM (EST)
Park and recreation professionals have the tools and resources to lead localized, accessible solutions that advance the multitude of benefits derived from equitable park access and climate-resilient park systems. The Park Access Network is an open community bringing together professionals from all over to facilitate conversations and best practices among peers to drive systemic changes that advance equitable and resilient park access.
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- Non-Members - Free!
- Members - Free!
- Premier Members - Free!
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Includes a Live Web Event on 12/11/2025 at 1:00 PM (EST)
NRPA membership hours take place the second Thursday of each month at 1pm ET. Join the membership team for a brief overview of NRPA membership at the top of the hour followed by the opportunity to ask questions about your benefits, getting involved with NRPA and much more. We invite everyone to join!
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- Non-Members - Free!
- Members - Free!
- Premier Members - Free!
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Includes a Live Web Event on 02/05/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)
This will help you create an engaging application as representatives from the National Awards & Scholarship Committee shed light on the process. What can you do to make sure your application stand out from the rest? How does the scoring process work? And what are some pitfalls to avoid? Give your agency or yourself a better chance at receiving national recognition in 2026! (Note: this recorded webinar does not include the National Gold Medal Program)
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- Non-Members - Free!
- Members - Free!
- Premier Members - Free!
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Level Up with NRPA Skill Builders
These flexible learning opportunities are designed to fit your busy schedule, be more responsive to your professional development budget, and align with your professional development goals. Skill Builders are organized into three types of focused learning experiences that will enable you to build and strengthen specific skills based on your desired time commitment:
Note: this is a members-only offering.
On-Demand Learning Opportunities
Discover your next professional development opportunity! From trending topics to timeless best practices, our on-demand learning puts parks and recreation expertise at your fingertips. Browse our NRPA Catalog now to explore our available live and on-demand online learning opportunities.
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2026 Call for Proposals
If you enjoyed your time at the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference (or didn’t get a chance to attend), consider presenting in 2026! The call for session proposals will be open from October 1 through November 30. Share your expertise, inspire your peers and help shape the educational programming for the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia.
Register for Event Management School
Registration is now open for Event Management School, taking place January 11-16, 2026, at Oglebay National Training Center in Wheeling, West Virginia. As events have evolved into spectacular productions, event management has become a growing industry with new demands and expectations. Event Management School equips you with applicable and relevant skills through both learning and applied-knowledge projects.
Maintenance Strategies for Environmentally Friendly Parks — Explore Climate.Park.Change.
NRPA partnered with Sasaki to create Climate.Park.Change., a web-based tool that helps park and recreation professionals understand climate risks and address them using environmentally friendly practices. Explore park design and maintenance strategies that ensure parks reduce emissions, conserve resources and protect both people and the environment. Find data-driven insights to help advocate for these changes and discover practical ways to build resilient parks and sustainable operations today.
NRPA's Resource Center
The NRPA Career Center offers professional services to help you build and manage your career for maximum potential for success. Check out these resources!
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