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  • NRPA Membership Hour
    Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 11/14/2024 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!

    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. NRPA membership hours will take place the second Thursday of each month at 1pm ET. We invite all everyone to join!

    • November 14 - 1:00 PM EDT
    • December 12 - 1:00 PM EDT
    • January 9 - 1:00 PM EDT
    • February 13 - 1:00 PM EDT
    • March 13 - 1:00 PM EDT

  • NRPA Park Access Network Meetings
    Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 10/23/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    Park and recreation professionals have the tools and resources to lead localized, anti-racist 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 diverse professionals to facilitate conversations and best practices among peers to drive systemic changes that advance equitable and resilient park access.

    Parks and recreation create stronger, more resilient communities that can adapt to and better recover from environmental, social and economic challenges. However, significant racial and socioeconomic disparities affect access to parks, including the number of quality parks, proximity of parks and connection to safe, inclusive, culturally-relevant parks and programs. Moreover, Black, Indigenous and people of color and low-income communities receive fewer resources and support to prepare for, respond to and recover from the impacts of climate change.

    Park and recreation professionals have the tools and resources to lead localized, anti-racist 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 diverse professionals to facilitate conversations and best practices among peers to drive systemic changes that advance equitable and resilient park access.

    Members are encouraged to use this network frequently, as well as invite colleagues to join in on the discussions. Special events, such as network calls, webinars and other events, will be developed over the next year – recommendations are welcome!

    Upcoming network meeting dates can be found below and are at 2:00PM EST:

    August 28, 2024

    October 23, 2024

    February 26, 2025

  • Conference 101: A Crash Course for New Attendees in 2024
    Contains 1 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 10/01/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    New to conference? Then you don't want to miss this! Join us on October 1, 2024 at 2:00 PM EDT - Students, new professionals or distinguished professionals can all learn from a crash course of NRPA Annual Conference including the different events, networking opportunities and where your best resources are located. Make the most of your time over your time at this year's NRPA Annual Conference with these tips, tricks and secrets.

    New to conference? Then you don't want to miss this! Join us on October 1, 2024 at 2:00 PM EDT - Students, new professionals or distinguished professionals can all learn from a crash course of NRPA Annual Conference including the different events, networking opportunities and where your best resources are located. Make the most of your time at this year's NRPA Annual Conference with these tips, tricks and secrets. A nearly identical version of this session will be offered in-person at the convention center in Atlanta at 5:00pm (local time) on Monday, October 7th. 

    Section #1 Off To A Good Start: Attendees will be asked to write down 3 goals to accomplish at Conference.

    Section#2 The Basics: Quick run-downs of specific events or programs and how to maximize the attendee experience at each.

    Section#3 Tips & Tricks: Best practices to get the most out of conference as a whole -- regardless of where the attendee is at.

    Section#4 Connect: The biggest long-term benefit of NRPA and Conference is Networking!  Attendees will get advice on getting an introduction, having a fulfilling conversation and building the strongest connections.  Attendees will then put into practice this advice to meet 3 other professionals in the session.

    Section#5 Back to "Work": Best practices about what to do post-conference.

    Objectives:

    1. Identify the ways to maximize your time and impact at Conference through making schedules, picking the right sessions, and networking opportunities.
    2. Learn what to expect from Conference week -- both in education sessions and at the various networking events.
    3. Provide strategies for starting conversations and tips for amplifying your network while attending conference as well as solidifying connections long-term.

    Michael Biedenstein, CPRE, AFO (he/him)

    Membership Engagement Manager

    National Recreation and Park Association

    Michael is responsible for NRPA's national awards program including this Hall of Fame, the Parks and Recreation 30 Under 30, Spotlight Awards, Innovation Awards, and Scholarship & Fellowships. Michael previously worked 18 years in the field of parks and recreation in St. Louis, MO. Michael has presented 17 times over 11 years including a highly rated session at the 2021 NRPA Conference.

    Hayley Herzing (she/her)

    Director of Membership

    National Recreation and Park Association

    Hayley Herzing is currently the Director of Membership for the National Recreation and Park Association. She has worked for NRPA for ten years and previously worked at the National Community Pharmacists Association. Hayley received her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications/Journalism from Shippensburg University.

    Maria Cepeda (she/her/hers)

    Downtown Events and Facility Coordinator

    Huntersville Park and Recreation

    Young professional working as a Special Events Coordinator for Town of Huntersville Park and Rec Recreation in North Carolina. Previously worked for Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation as Senior Recreation Specialist, creating programs and events for the community of Charlotte. After undergrad, she did her internship with the Woodlands Township in Texas. Board member of Hispanic Professionals in Park and Recreation advocating for Hispanic/Latino professionals in the field.

  • Linking Generations: Fostering Connection Through Parks and Recreation
    Contains 2 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 09/24/2024 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    Join us on September 24th, 2024, at 2 p.m. EDT to learn about innovative ways parks and recreation serves older adults and fosters opportunity for connections across the generations. You will learn about a recent NRPA study on older adult and intergenerational programming within parks and recreation. You will also hear directly from park and recreation practitioners about their experiences providing these programs and services to older adults and the broader community. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about innovative approaches to serving and honoring the older adults in our communities.

    Parks and recreation is for everyone, including people of all ages and generations. Through programs and spaces, parks and recreation is uniquely positioned to provide transformative experiences for older adults and provide opportunities to connect with others from different generations. 

    Join us on September 24th, 2024, at 2  p.m. EDT to learn about innovative ways parks and recreation serves older adults and fosters opportunity for intergenerational connections. NRPA staff will share findings from a recent study about older adult and intergenerational programming within parks and recreation. Then, you will hear directly from park and recreation agencies who are providing these kinds of impactful programs and services. You will be inspired to think about how these kinds of approaches to older adult and intergenerational programming could be applied to your agency’s offerings. 

    Feel free to check out our healthy aging framework and provide feedback! (healthy aging framework to come in Fall 2024) 

    Austin Barrett, PhD (he/him)

    Senior Evaluation Manager

    National Recreation and Park Association

    Austin Barrett is a Senior Evaluation Manager with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Austin joined NRPA in 2021 and works to quantify the impact of NRPA-facilitated grants and develops resources to help park and recreation professionals grow their skills in making data-informed decisions. Previously, he was a Data Analyst and System Administrator working to address homelessness in South Carolina and completed his Ph.D. in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management at The Pennsylvania State University. Austin’s additional professional experience includes working as a Ranger with the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. He is also a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP).

    Cindy Hickman (she/her)

    Recreation Manager

    Apex Park and Recreation District

    Driven by a profound passion for serving the older adult community, Cindy finds daily fulfillment in the opportunity to make a positive difference in someone's life. With nearly three decades of dedicated service in the field of Parks and Recreation, Cindy brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role, and has been a devoted advocate for the older adult community.

    Colleen Pittard (she/her)

    Partnership Manager

    National Recreation and Park Association

    Colleen Pittard (she/her) is a Partnership Manager at NRPA. She is a member of the Health Team and works in their Healthy Aging portfolio. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her family, friends and her two dogs, Maizie and Mac.

    Michelle Stout (she/her)

    Recreation Manager

    Apex Park and Recreation District

    Michelle Stout (she/her) is the Recreation Manager at the Apex Community Recreation Center in Arvada, CO. She is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), as well as a Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM CPT) and Corrective Exercise Specialist (NASM CES). After completing her bachelor’s in health and Exercise Science at Colorado State University, she found her passions within the fitness and active adult community. She believes everyone should have access to physical, mental, and social activities in their community. In her free time, she enjoys running, working out, golfing, hiking, traveling, doing puzzles, volunteering in the community, and hanging out with friends 

    Natalia Ospina (she/her)

    Senior Program Manager

    National Recreation and Park Association

    Natalia Ospina is a Senior Program Manager at NRPA on the Health team. In her free time she enjoys trail running, climbing, and spending time with her dog Lulo.

  • November Premier: The Seedlings of a Volunteer Program
    Contains 0 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Coming November 2024! This online learning event equips participants with tools to build or enhance a dynamic volunteer program, focusing on recruitment, onboarding, appreciation, and the distinction between leading and managing, to support their organization's mission and goals.

    This online learning event provides individuals with tools to build a dynamic volunteer program to support their organization's mission and goals. A volunteer program is beneficial for any department of an entity, and this will help establish a foundation for building a volunteer program. This is useful for those who are starting a program or are looking to revamp their current program. 

    This talk is available for 1 year from release date!

    Learning Objectives: 

    1. Participants will be able to create a structure for a volunteer program. 

    2. Participants will be able to implement an interviewing strategy.

    3. Participants will be able to implement an onboarding and training program. 

    Steve Adame (he/him)

    Volunteer Coordinator

    Town of Prescott Valley

    I have led and worked with volunteers and developed volunteer programs through nonprofit and government organizations for 20 years and going. I am also a professional communicator for over 17 years. Not only do I work with volunteers, but I also volunteer my time and energy. I volunteer with Yavapai Soccer League as a Coach and Board Member. I am also an active volunteer with my daughter's Girl Scout troop. You can usually find me sitting in my lawn chair behind the cookie booth during cookie season. My wife's name is Liz and we have two kids, a dog, and two cockatiels.

    My favorite quote: "Empty your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water. If you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water into a bottle and it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Now, water can flow or it can crash. Be water, my friend." - Bruce Lee

  • December Premier: Recreate to Empower: Unleashing Potential in Teens and Tweens
    Contains 0 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Coming December 2024! This online learning event will explore strategies to keep teenagers and preadolescents engaged and motivated through community and recreational programming. It aims to offer practical approaches for fostering long-term involvement and enthusiasm in youth activities.

    This session will delve into the critical aspects of keeping teenagers and preadolescents encouraged and engaged through community and recreational programming. The discussion will cover a range of strategies aimed at enticing teens to actively participate in such programs, including identifying and understanding behavior signs, encouraging open communication, and promoting personal growth.  

    Learning Objectives:

    1. Understanding Adolescents, Community Involvement: Interactive Session 

    2. Resilience Building: Mental and Physical Well-being 

    3. Innovative Program Design: Case Studies and Success Stories 

    This talk is available for 1 year from release date!

    Jadayia Sinclair

    Director Of Youth Programs

    Rainbow Villlage

    Originally from the vibrant state of  Florida, Jadayia is a proud graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she earned her Master's degree. Jadayia has over 10 years experience in youth and family program and currently serves as The Director of Youth Programs for Rainbow Village. Her educational background, combined with her hands-on experience, provides her with a solid foundation to make a positive impact on the lives of  the youth.

    Jadayia takes immense pride in her ability to bring youth and families together through various community programming initiatives. Whether organizing enriching summer camps or coordinating inclusive events, she is committed to fostering connections and creating opportunities for growth. 

    Outside of her professional commitments, Jadayia enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures, as well as spending quality time with her family and friends. Her passion for adventure and community engagement enriches her work, where she strives to instill a sense of curiosity and exploration in the youth she serves.

  • September Premier: Don't Just Sit There! Start Planning Equitable Special Events
    Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Released September 2024! By using data from our community, we can see where our programming behaviors are excelling and where we need to focus to provide a truly equitable experience. Special events have the opportunity to bring people together, but we need to know who is left out of these experiences and why. Using data to help us make these decisions, we can connect more people to our resources and, ultimately, the fun of special events!

    This presentation addresses how to build special events equitably throughout the entire process; it is suitable for professionals at the start of their careers or for those looking to increase their knowledge base. Drawing from expertise in both programming and special event planning, the presenter will deliver a clear roadmap and planning checklist for special events and equitable decision making. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of the topic, empowering them to apply their newfound knowledge confidently in real-world scenarios. 

    This talk is available for 1 year from release date!

    Learning Objectives: 

    1. The learners will be able to define what special event equity means in parks and recreation and use that definition throughout the planning process.

    2. Learners will recognize the various elements that contribute to special event equity, such as accessibility, representation, diversity, inclusion and cultural sensitivity. 

    3. Learners will be able to apply principles of special event equity to the design, implementation and evaluation of future events, considering factors such as venue selection, programming, communication and resource allocation. 

    Amanda D'Agostino (she/her)

    Special Events Coordinator

    City of Evanston Parks and Recreation

    Amanda D'Agostino is a dedicated Special Event Coordinator with a passion for creating unforgettable experiences and a talent for meticulous planning. With four years of hands-on experience in the realm of special events, she has honed her skills in orchestrating a diverse range of occasions, from fundraising events to community gatherings in parks and recreation settings. Amanda's approach to event coordination is distinguished by her commitment to equity and inclusivity, ensuring that each event is tailored to meet the specific needs and interests of the community it serves.

    Currently serving as a Special Event Coordinator for the City of Evanston Parks and Recreation Department, Amanda oversees a dynamic portfolio of over 80 events of various scales. Her responsibilities include liaising with stakeholders, securing permits and venues, coordinating vendors and entertainment, and managing budgets to ensure the successful realization of each event.

  • October Premier: Supporting Youth through Inclusive and Equitable Mentoring Programs
    Contains 0 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Coming October 2024! Presenters will discuss youth mentoring in parks and recreation and how tools from NRPA’s Equity in Practice work can be applied to programs to build diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Learners will leave knowing where to find resources for youth mentoring in parks and recreation, what the Equity in Practice core competencies are and examples from the field of how these ideas can be applied to everyday interactions.

    This webinar will examine how park and recreation agencies are supporting young people’s well-being through mentorship opportunities and offer tools for program coordinators, directors and other professionals to build equity and inclusivity into programs. Speakers will include NRPA’s senior education manager for DEI, a program manager from NRPA’s youth mentoring portfolio, and a park and recreation professional from Burlington, North Carolina, who manages their youth mentoring program. Speakers will share examples of how local park and recreation agencies are offering mentorship opportunities through standalone programs and group-based formats such as youth sports or after-school programs. This webinar will also explore how the competencies for Equity in Practice (self-awareness, direct communication, relationships across difference, and race equity analysis) can be applied to mentoring programs to build a more equitable and inclusive experience for youth, staff and volunteers. 

    Learning Objectives: 

    1. Learners will be able to identify strategies and resources for creating more inclusive and equitable youth programs. 

    2. Learners will be able to describe the competencies for Equity in Practice to build more inclusive and equitable youth programs. 

    3. Learners will be able to apply examples from the field related to incorporating DEI principles into youth mentoring programs. 

    This talk is available for 1 year from release date!

    Bobbi Ruffin-Alston

    Recreation Superintendent

    Burlington Recreation & Parks

    With over 10 years of experience in the education field, Bobbi brings a passion for helping individuals, bridging community gaps, and programming with an equity-focused lens in her current field of local government. In addition to her career endeavors, Bobbi is also a loving wife, mother of two, and an accomplished inspirational singer/songwriter. 

    Zion Cash (he/him)

    Community Center Director

    Burlington Recreation and Parks

    I'm Zion Cash, recent graduate from the University of North Carolina Greensboro in 2021. I am coming up on my second year as a Community Center Director here with the City of Burlington. I also officiate college football and high school basketball. I enjoy spending time with family / friends, playing video games, working out, and buying sneakers!

    Olivia Peterson (she/her)

    Program Manager

    National Recreation and Park Association

    Olivia Peterson (she/her) serves as a Program Manager at NRPA for the Mentoring for Youth Impacted by Substance Misuse grant, which supports 20 agencies around the country in developing mentoring programs within a parks and recreation setting. Olivia began her career as an AmeriCorps member working with youth in Massachusetts on food access and farming initiatives and has since spent time working at a volunteer mobilizing organization in Boston and the National Association of Community Health Centers supporting their training and technical assistance program. Olivia earned her B.A. in Environmental Studies from Dickinson College and completed her Project Management Professional certification from the Project Management Institute. She lives in Washington D.C. and enjoys hiking, going on runs, and trying out new recipes.

    Tiff Cunin (they/them)

    Senior Education Manager for DEI

    National Recreation and Park Association

    Tiff Cunin (they/them) is the Senior Education Manager for DEI at the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) where they oversee diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) professional development and education programs like NRPA’s Equity in Practice Certificate Program. Using their extensive background in physical activity, public health and translational research, Tiff weaves recreation, physical activity and play together to transform public health’s commitment to social justice and the elimination of health equities. 

    Tiff is also a Ph.D. candidate at The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences where they are exploring the intersection of race, age, and transgender identity in the context of social participation (e.g., recreational activities) across the lifespan. 
    Tiff is an avid outdoor enthusiast who loves to surf, snowboard, hike, camp, and more. They have lived all over the world and currently call Cape Elizabeth, Maine home where they live with their partner and 2 cat children, Hobie and Sprinkles.

  • Uncomfortable Conversations: Why you need them and how to have them
    Contains 2 Component(s)

    Released August 2024! This learning product will cover effective communication techniques, principles of empathy and inclusivity, conflict resolution strategies and cultural competence — all tailored to the unique context of parks and recreation. These areas are essential for professionals and volunteers to create inclusive environments, address conflicts constructively and engage diverse communities effectively, ensuring that park and recreation spaces are welcoming and accessible to all.

    Released August 2024! Be curious, not judgmental. Approach difficult conversations head-on and empathetically, not to assign blame but to better understand and create a welcoming work culture internally and inclusive experiences externally. The learning product "Uncomfortable Conversations in Parks and Recreation" delves into navigating the challenging discussions that surface in park and recreation settings and beyond. 

    Leveraging insights from lived experiences on six continents with global organizations such as Disney, Olympics and TED / TEDx and utilizing communication lessons and social psychology, this course is designed for individuals working or volunteering in these areas. The curriculum emphasizes how to handle topics like inclusivity, environmental stewardship and cultural awareness with sensitivity and effectiveness.  

    The goal is to empower learners with strategies for constructive dialogue and empathy, ultimately fostering an environment in park and recreation spaces where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. This is vital for promoting community cohesion and ensuring equitable access to public amenities. 

    This talk is available for 1 year after release date.

    Learning Objectives:

    1. The learners will be able to implement effective communication strategies to facilitate open and respectful dialogues about sensitive issues in park and recreation settings, ensuring conversations are inclusive and productive. 

    2. The learners will be able to apply principles of empathy and cultural competence in their interactions with colleagues, stakeholders and the community, fostering an environment of understanding and respect within park and recreation management. 

    3. The learners will be able to apply equity-focused assessment techniques to identify and mitigate systemic barriers within park and recreation environments, ensuring facilities and services are accessible and welcoming to all community members. 

    Neelay Bhatt (he/him)

    Founder & CEO

    Next Practice Partners

    Neelay’s career on six continents includes Disney, The Super Bowl, The Olympics, and years of consulting, public speaking and training. 

    He champions “Ideas Worth Spreading” as the curator for TEDxIndianapolis, TEDxIndianapolisWomen and TEDxCollegePark and his role on the NRPA Board served to ensure “no child was left indoors”. He continues to give back by serving in a leadership role for the 2024 NBA All-Star and 2024 US Olympic Swimming and Diving Trials. 

    As the Founder & CEO of Next Practice Partners, he combines inclusion and innovation to help agencies prepare for “what’s next” through planning, training, and technology solutions. 

    Over his 25-year journey, he has keynoted worldwide, trained and coached Olympic Gold Medalists, Indy Car Race Drivers, Oxford Physicists and start up CEOs to tell their story and discover their WHY, developed the business plan for the first internationally certified cricket stadium in the US, and co-created the world’s largest municipal customer service & leadership training initiative for Chicago Park District’s 3000 employees. 

    He is an alumnus of the Harvard Kennedy School and #1 ranked Sports Management Program at Ohio University and his Master and Strategic planning work with Atlanta, Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Miami, Norfolk, San Diego etc. have recommended parks, arts, and sports facility development and improvements totaling over $2.5 billion, shaping a more innovative and inclusive future for all.

    As a first-generation immigrant raised by three women and a father who always showed up, he hopes to model the same for his two kids. These life experiences are woven into his keynotes on Innovation and Next Practices, the Power of One, and creating Magical Customer Service Cultures, and have inspired executives, professionals, startups, and students from Charlotte to China and from Switzerland to New Zealand.

  • August Premier: Sustainability Planning for Park Districts and Communities
    Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Released August 2024! In this learning session, Ms. Mellen will inform attendees about her cross-agency position and guide them through the yearlong planning process that the Wilmette Park District embarked upon over the past year. This planning process involved an assessment of current District practices, an external assessment of nearby communities, patron outreach via surveys, table talks, feedback forms, and the formation of an internal staff steering committee – all of which culminated in the creation of the district's inaugural sustainability plan.

    Released August 2024! In February 2023, the Wilmette Park District welcomed its first sustainability coordinator, Lucy Mellen. Explore the unique breadth of a sustainability coordinator role, extending beyond the Park District to encompass the Village of Wilmette, the public library, the local township, and the school district. Discover how Wilmette Park District was able to utilize this role to partner with diverse stakeholders over the past year to develop the district's inaugural sustainability plan, fostering a holistic approach to environmental stewardship and community engagement. 

    This talk is available for 1 year from release date!

    Learning Objectives:

    1. Analyze the components involved in developing a comprehensive sustainability plan for a park district, considering the interconnectivity with other community entities. 

    2. Understand the key components and methodologies involved in developing a comprehensive sustainability plan, including assessing current practices, conducting external evaluations, engaging stakeholders through various outreach methods, and forming internal committees to facilitate the planning process.  

    3. Analyze the collaborative strategies used by the Wilmette Park District to leverage the sustainability coordinator role in partnering with various stakeholders to develop a comprehensive sustainability plan.  

    Lucy Mellen

    Sustainability Coordinator

    Wilmette Park District

    Lucy Mellen graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor's degree in Environmental and Sustainability Studies. Following graduation, Ms. Mellen was the heat relief coordinator for the City of Richmond, IN, where she managed the city's grant funded Beat the Heat Program. In this role, Ms. Mellen created the city's first Heat Management Plan.

    Ms. Mellen started her role in Wilmette in February 2023. Her responsibilities are divided among five entities in Wilmette: the local township, the library, the school district, the Park District, and the Village government, with the majority of her time dedicated to the latter two entities. Since starting, her primary focus with the Park District has been developing their first Sustainability Plan.