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.

NRPA Online Learning Events Equity in Practice NRPA Certificates

In-Person Learning Opportunities

Check out our in-person learning and networking opportunities!

NRPA Partner Schools NRPA Annual Conference

Upcoming Live Learning Events

  • NRPA Membership Hour
    Includes a Live Web Event on 03/12/2026 at 1:00 PM (EDT)

    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!

  • Council Connection: Recreation Center Planning and Design
    Includes a Live Web Event on 04/01/2026 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    Thinking about a new recreation center? Join us Wednesday, April 1 at 2 p.m. EDT! This session offers a concise, real-world overview of the planning, design, and opening process. Hear directly from agency leaders and a specialized architect who have lived it – so you can approach your project with confidence.

Get Her in the Game: Designing Youth Sports Where Every Girl Belongs

Girls want to play—so why do they make up only 35% of park and recreation youth sports participants?

This interactive session is designed for park and rec professionals ready to move beyond awareness and into meaningful, lasting change. Drawing from the Get Her in the Game Playbook, you’ll hear from practitioners leading this work in the field to explore how program design and organizational culture can be reimagined so that every girl doesn’t just get in the game; she belongs there.

By the end of this session, you will be able to:
• Identify the key factors that influence girls' participation in youth sports
• Apply practical strategies to make your parks and rec programs more welcoming, inclusive, and supportive for girls
• Walk away with at least one actionable idea ready to implement in your community today

Click here to register