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 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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Includes a Live Web Event on 02/12/2026 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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You must log in to register
- Non-Members - Free!
- Members - Free!
- Premier Members - Free!
- More Information
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Reducing Plastics in Parks Training Series
Plastics are a major source of waste and litter in parks, affecting safety and visitor experience. Join our two-part Reducing Plastics in Parks training series to assess your agency’s current plastic use and impacts, learn about common challenges, and explore practical, park-based solutions.
Looking to clean up your parks? Join our two-part Reducing Plastics in Parks training series to assess your agency’s current plastic use and impacts, learn about common challenges and explore practical, park-based solutions.
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, on-demand, and asynchronous learning opportunities.
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Apply to Become an Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Instructor
Take the next step in your career by attending the next AFO Instructor Workshop, taking place March 10-11, 2026, at NRPA headquarters in Ashburn, Virginia. The deadline to submit your application and references is Friday, February 6, 2026. Please reach out to Elizabeth Gonzales at egonzales@nrpa.org with any questions
NRPA's Mentoring Resources
NRPA has developed a suite of resources to help local park and recreation agencies develop their own mentoring programs. Explore these resource to help your agency leverage local park and recreation assets to build protective factors around at-risk youth, while forming strong social connections and positive relationships to address difficult experiences, adversity and other challenges that youth experience.
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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