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  • 4-part Culture, Communication and Conflict Clinics
    Contains 7 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 02/06/2025 at 2:00 PM (EST)

    Join the National Conflict Resolution Center's 4-part interactive workshop, "Culture, Communication, and Conflict"! These clinics equip workplace leaders with strategies to manage conflicts around polarizing issues like politics and remote work. Through interactive sessions, leaders learn how to create a positive, inclusive culture that enhances employee satisfaction and productivity. These clinics will be at 2:00pm EDT every Thursday in February 2025!

    As a workplace leader, navigating conflict is part of the role—whether it's managing egos, resolving disputes, or addressing limited resources. Today’s workplace is facing heightened conflicts fueled by polarizing issues like politics, racial and gender dynamics, and remote work. Leaders must address these challenges to protect morale, productivity, and psychological safety. The National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC) developed the "Culture, Communication, and Conflict Clinics" workshop series to help leaders foster positive, inclusive workplace cultures through practical, interactive sessions designed to equip them with effective conflict management strategies. These clinics will be at 2:00pm EDT every Thursday in February 2025!

    In these clinics participants will learn:

    1. You’ll learn how to effectively handle challenging one-on-one conversations. You’ll explore strategies and techniques to embrace and promote inclusivity. 

    2. You’ll learn how to empower others at your workplace to become thoughtful upstanders and to create a sense of belonging. 

    3. You’ll learn to lead a collaborative, problem-solving conversation that is future-focused.

    Ashley Virtue (she/her)

    Director of External Relations

    The National Conflict Resolution Center

    Ashley Virtue has been with the National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC) since 2005. She has been instrumental in the development and promotion of multiple mainstay programs at NCRC and has focused much of her career expanding NCRC’s work nationally and internationally. In recent years, Ashley has worked diligently to position NCRC as a global thought-leader in the field of conflict resolution. NCRC has appeared on hundreds of local, regional, and national media outlets, oftentimes with Ashley as the spokesperson. She has been featured in media outlets such as Forbes, The Washington Post, C-SPAN, NPR, PopSugar, and many others. Ashley has also helped expand NCRC’s reach to clients around the U.S. and abroad and has led hundreds of workshops. As one of the senior leaders at the organization, Ashley has also helped develop training curriculum and some of NCRC’s signature communication methodologies.

    Ashley has received a number of awards recognizing her commitment to the community, including being a finalist for San Diego Magazine’s Woman of the Year and being honored as a “KNX Hero” by Los Angeles’ KNX 1070 News Radio station.

    Education & Professional Affiliations:

    Restorative Practices Facilitator Certification, International Institute of Restorative Practices, 2017
    Conflict Management Train-the-Trainer Certificate, National Conflict Resolution Center, 2010
    Certified Mediation Training & Mediator Credential, National Conflict Resolution Center, 2006
    A., International Security and Conflict Resolution with Minor in German, San Diego State University, 2005

    Training Experience & Specialties: 

    The Uncharted Workplace: Featured in a regular webinar series for professionals
    Mindset Monday: Featured in a weekly viral video series with tips and strategies from NCRC
    The Artful Conversation: Workshop
    The Art of Inclusive Communication: Workshop
    The Art & Science of High Performance Teams: Workshop
    The Client Connection: Workshop
    The Constructive Feedback Solution: Workshop
    The Bystander Challenge: Workshop
    The Exchange: Workshop
    Conflict Coaching

    Hobbies & Interests:

    First and foremost, spending time with my two wonderful boys! Also traveling, experiencing new restaurants, concerts and shows; and enjoying time with family and friends.

    Daniel Orth (he/him)

    Associate Director of the Training Institute

    The National Conflict Resolution Center

    Daniel Orth is the Associate Director of NCRC’s Training Institute where he develops new initiatives, customizes training curriculum for clients, supports trainer development, and leads trainings. For more than 18 years, Daniel has supported individuals, organizations, government agencies, businesses, and communities in the U.S. and abroad to resolve conflict. He specializes in working with diverse stakeholders to analyze conflict dynamics, leading strategic planning processes, facilitating difficult conversations, equipping individuals with skills and knowledge through training opportunities, and building critical connections through network formation and management.

    Daniel is passionate about the role of faith communities in strengthening their societies and advances interfaith initiatives as the Board President for the San Diego Regional Interfaith Collaborative. He also believes in enhancing relationships between communities and law enforcement agencies to co-create public safety and serves as the Vice Chair of the National City Community & Police Relations Commission. As a former classroom teacher and trainer of new teachers, Daniel is committed to supporting educational institutions and their students, faculty, staff, and administrators.

    CAREER & PRIOR EXPERIENCE:

    Conflict Resolution Program Design and Implementation
    Trainer
    Teacher
    Curriculum Development

    EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS:

    MA in International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution from the Fletcher School at Tufts University Boston, MA
    BA in Political Science and Economics from Tulane University – New Orleans, LA

    TRAINING EXPERIENCE & SPECIALTIES:

    Artful Conversation
    Art of Inclusive Communication (ARTIC)
    Bias and Anti-Racism (ARTIC 2.0)
    The Exchange
    Conflict Coaching
    Mediation
    Facilitated Dialogue

    HOBBIES AND INTERESTS:

    Cooking (and eating), reading, collecting records, gardening

  • The ARTful Conversations Clinic
    Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 01/30/2025 at 2:00 PM (EST)

    Join the National Conflict Resolution Center's interactive workshop, “The ARTful Conversations Clinic”, on January 30th, 2025! Learn how to improve communication by teaching collaborative skills that reduce tension, express perspectives non-confrontationally, and build stronger relationships. Through real-life examples, participants learn to navigate conflict effectively in all settings.

    Communication is a big part of our daily lives – in the workplace, in the community and at home. Yet we sometimes find ourselves unable to express what we intended or needed to say. Perhaps this is because we are reluctant to offend the other person, or we don’t want to escalate a situation. At the National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC), we understand the desire to avoid conflict is natural. That's why we developed The ARTful Conversation, an interactive workshop that helps participants learn how to communicate their needs in a way that builds relationships, rather than hurting them. This workshop uses real examples, developed with the participants in mind, to help them practice the ARTful Conversation structure in a practical way. They gain a deeper understanding of how others perceive and process conflict. They also learn how to adapt their own style to work more effectively with others, in all settings. 

    By the end of this clinic:  

    1. Participants learn and practice four intervention techniques that they might use with the person responsible for the concerning behavior 

    2. Participants discuss how and when communication with the Target of unwanted behavior is warranted. 

    3. Participants gain a better understanding of the point of view of the Target, and practice supportive communication skills that are practiced. 

    Ashley Virtue (she/her)

    Director of External Relations

    The National Conflict Resolution Center

    Ashley Virtue has been with the National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC) since 2005. She has been instrumental in the development and promotion of multiple mainstay programs at NCRC and has focused much of her career expanding NCRC’s work nationally and internationally. In recent years, Ashley has worked diligently to position NCRC as a global thought-leader in the field of conflict resolution. NCRC has appeared on hundreds of local, regional, and national media outlets, oftentimes with Ashley as the spokesperson. She has been featured in media outlets such as Forbes, The Washington Post, C-SPAN, NPR, PopSugar, and many others. Ashley has also helped expand NCRC’s reach to clients around the U.S. and abroad and has led hundreds of workshops. As one of the senior leaders at the organization, Ashley has also helped develop training curriculum and some of NCRC’s signature communication methodologies.

    Ashley has received a number of awards recognizing her commitment to the community, including being a finalist for San Diego Magazine’s Woman of the Year and being honored as a “KNX Hero” by Los Angeles’ KNX 1070 News Radio station.

    Education & Professional Affiliations:

    Restorative Practices Facilitator Certification, International Institute of Restorative Practices, 2017
    Conflict Management Train-the-Trainer Certificate, National Conflict Resolution Center, 2010
    Certified Mediation Training & Mediator Credential, National Conflict Resolution Center, 2006
    A., International Security and Conflict Resolution with Minor in German, San Diego State University, 2005

    Training Experience & Specialties: 

    The Uncharted Workplace: Featured in a regular webinar series for professionals
    Mindset Monday: Featured in a weekly viral video series with tips and strategies from NCRC
    The Artful Conversation: Workshop
    The Art of Inclusive Communication: Workshop
    The Art & Science of High Performance Teams: Workshop
    The Client Connection: Workshop
    The Constructive Feedback Solution: Workshop
    The Bystander Challenge: Workshop
    The Exchange: Workshop
    Conflict Coaching

    Hobbies & Interests:

    First and foremost, spending time with my two wonderful boys! Also traveling, experiencing new restaurants, concerts and shows; and enjoying time with family and friends.

    Daniel Orth (he/him)

    Associate Director of the Training Institute

    The National Conflict Resolution Center

    Daniel Orth is the Associate Director of NCRC’s Training Institute where he develops new initiatives, customizes training curriculum for clients, supports trainer development, and leads trainings. For more than 18 years, Daniel has supported individuals, organizations, government agencies, businesses, and communities in the U.S. and abroad to resolve conflict. He specializes in working with diverse stakeholders to analyze conflict dynamics, leading strategic planning processes, facilitating difficult conversations, equipping individuals with skills and knowledge through training opportunities, and building critical connections through network formation and management.

    Daniel is passionate about the role of faith communities in strengthening their societies and advances interfaith initiatives as the Board President for the San Diego Regional Interfaith Collaborative. He also believes in enhancing relationships between communities and law enforcement agencies to co-create public safety and serves as the Vice Chair of the National City Community & Police Relations Commission. As a former classroom teacher and trainer of new teachers, Daniel is committed to supporting educational institutions and their students, faculty, staff, and administrators.

    CAREER & PRIOR EXPERIENCE:

    Conflict Resolution Program Design and Implementation
    Trainer
    Teacher
    Curriculum Development

    EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS:

    MA in International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution from the Fletcher School at Tufts University Boston, MA
    BA in Political Science and Economics from Tulane University – New Orleans, LA

    TRAINING EXPERIENCE & SPECIALTIES:

    Artful Conversation
    Art of Inclusive Communication (ARTIC)
    Bias and Anti-Racism (ARTIC 2.0)
    The Exchange
    Conflict Coaching
    Mediation
    Facilitated Dialogue

    HOBBIES AND INTERESTS:

    Cooking (and eating), reading, collecting records, gardening

  • The Bystander Challenge (Upstander Training) Clinic
    Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 12/05/2024 at 2:00 PM (EST)

    Join the National Conflict Resolution Center's interactive workshop, The Bystander Challenge Clinic, on December 5th, 2024, to learn how bystanders can become upstanders in addressing inappropriate workplace behavior. Participants will gain practical skills to foster a respectful and inclusive workplace through thoughtful communication, empathy, and intervention techniques.

    One thing is certain in workplaces today: At some point, someone is going to make an inappropriate comment or behave in a cringy way. It’s the kind of thing that, when left unaddressed, can escalate to the point where an individual feels harassed by their coworker. Join us on December 5th, 2024, at 2 p.m. EDT for The Bystander Challenge Clinic, an interactive workshop developed by the National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC), the bystander’s role in changing this dynamic is explored. Increasingly, bystanders are being asked to become upstanders who stand up to “red-flag” behavior. As many recognize, it’s easier said than done, as workplace dynamics can make it challenging to know the correct course of action. There are other factors that come into play, too, like long-term working relationships, workplace culture, lack of diversity on a team, or discomfort with the topic. While notices and directives abound in workplaces to define and raise awareness of harassment, few programs teach people how to communicate with each other when they perceive red flags. NCRC equips people to have these challenging conversations in a way that demonstrates respect, inclusiveness, and dignity for everyone involved. In a safe learning space, participants gain confidence using these skills. Concepts are further reinforced through thoughtful interactive exercises and reflective conversations.

    The training has a proven positive impact on workplace culture and perceptions of safety. Allowing participants to take what you’ve learned about bystander intervention and make it part of your everyday approach to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace. Whether it’s practicing the four intervention techniques, offering support to someone targeted by inappropriate behavior, or simply opening a conversation, your actions can create a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone. Use these skills consistently to communicate with empathy and encourage positive change in your workplace culture. 

    By the end of this clinic:  

    1. Participants learn and practice four intervention techniques that they might use with the person responsible for the concerning behavior 

    2. Participants discuss how and when communication with the Target of unwanted behavior is warranted. 

    3. Participants gain a better understanding of the point of view of the Target, and practice supportive communication skills that are practiced. 

    Ashley Virtue (she/her)

    Director of External Relations

    The National Conflict Resolution Center

    Ashley Virtue has been with the National Conflict Resolution Center (NCRC) since 2005. She has been instrumental in the development and promotion of multiple mainstay programs at NCRC and has focused much of her career expanding NCRC’s work nationally and internationally. In recent years, Ashley has worked diligently to position NCRC as a global thought-leader in the field of conflict resolution. NCRC has appeared on hundreds of local, regional, and national media outlets, oftentimes with Ashley as the spokesperson. She has been featured in media outlets such as Forbes, The Washington Post, C-SPAN, NPR, PopSugar, and many others. Ashley has also helped expand NCRC’s reach to clients around the U.S. and abroad and has led hundreds of workshops. As one of the senior leaders at the organization, Ashley has also helped develop training curriculum and some of NCRC’s signature communication methodologies.

    Ashley has received a number of awards recognizing her commitment to the community, including being a finalist for San Diego Magazine’s Woman of the Year and being honored as a “KNX Hero” by Los Angeles’ KNX 1070 News Radio station.

    Education & Professional Affiliations:

    Restorative Practices Facilitator Certification, International Institute of Restorative Practices, 2017
    Conflict Management Train-the-Trainer Certificate, National Conflict Resolution Center, 2010
    Certified Mediation Training & Mediator Credential, National Conflict Resolution Center, 2006
    A., International Security and Conflict Resolution with Minor in German, San Diego State University, 2005

    Training Experience & Specialties: 

    The Uncharted Workplace: Featured in a regular webinar series for professionals
    Mindset Monday: Featured in a weekly viral video series with tips and strategies from NCRC
    The Artful Conversation: Workshop
    The Art of Inclusive Communication: Workshop
    The Art & Science of High Performance Teams: Workshop
    The Client Connection: Workshop
    The Constructive Feedback Solution: Workshop
    The Bystander Challenge: Workshop
    The Exchange: Workshop
    Conflict Coaching

    Hobbies & Interests:

    First and foremost, spending time with my two wonderful boys! Also traveling, experiencing new restaurants, concerts and shows; and enjoying time with family and friends.

    Daniel Orth (he/him)

    Associate Director of the Training Institute

    The National Conflict Resolution Center

    Daniel Orth is the Associate Director of NCRC’s Training Institute where he develops new initiatives, customizes training curriculum for clients, supports trainer development, and leads trainings. For more than 18 years, Daniel has supported individuals, organizations, government agencies, businesses, and communities in the U.S. and abroad to resolve conflict. He specializes in working with diverse stakeholders to analyze conflict dynamics, leading strategic planning processes, facilitating difficult conversations, equipping individuals with skills and knowledge through training opportunities, and building critical connections through network formation and management.

    Daniel is passionate about the role of faith communities in strengthening their societies and advances interfaith initiatives as the Board President for the San Diego Regional Interfaith Collaborative. He also believes in enhancing relationships between communities and law enforcement agencies to co-create public safety and serves as the Vice Chair of the National City Community & Police Relations Commission. As a former classroom teacher and trainer of new teachers, Daniel is committed to supporting educational institutions and their students, faculty, staff, and administrators.

    CAREER & PRIOR EXPERIENCE:

    Conflict Resolution Program Design and Implementation
    Trainer
    Teacher
    Curriculum Development

    EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS:

    MA in International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution from the Fletcher School at Tufts University Boston, MA
    BA in Political Science and Economics from Tulane University – New Orleans, LA

    TRAINING EXPERIENCE & SPECIALTIES:

    Artful Conversation
    Art of Inclusive Communication (ARTIC)
    Bias and Anti-Racism (ARTIC 2.0)
    The Exchange
    Conflict Coaching
    Mediation
    Facilitated Dialogue

    HOBBIES AND INTERESTS:

    Cooking (and eating), reading, collecting records, gardening

  • 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 2 Component(s)

    New to conference? Then you don't want to miss this! 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! 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)

    Released September 2024! 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. 

    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) 

    This talk is available one year from it's release date.

    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 Coordinator-Active Adults

    Town of Erie Parks and Recreation

    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: How Park and Recreation Departments Can Work With Drug-Free Community Coalitions to Help Reduce Youth Substance Use in Their Communities
    Contains 0 Component(s), Includes Credits

    Coming December 2024! The CDC Branch Chief for the Drug Free Communities (DFC) program will present the rates of youth substance use in the United States and how the DFC program addresses youth substance use. She will then discuss ways park and recreation departments can collaborate with DFC coalitions, and how they can also directly apply for the funding themselves. A representative from the Douglas County, Kansas, DFC coalition and their local park and recreation department will then share a real example of how they successfully worked together on reducing youth marijuana use in their community.

    While the rates of youth substance use have decreased over the last decade, new and emerging substances continue to put youth at risk.  The Drug Free Communities (DFC) Support Program, funded by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and managed by CDC, funds community coalitions to prevent youth substance use. The theory behind the DFC Program is that each respective community can mobilize its leaders toidentify and respond to the drug problems unique to their area with a small amount of federal funding combined with a local match of resources and volunteer support. 

    Local park and recreation departments are a natural partner for DFC coalitions because of their facilities and programming that positively impact youth and the surrounding community. This online learning session will help learners start thinking about how a collaboration like this could be beneficial in their own community. 

    Learning Objectives:

    1. At the end of the session, learners will be able to identify trends in youth substance use. 

    2. At the end of the session, learners will be able to describe the basics of the DFC program, how to apply, and how to find a coalition in their area. 

    3. At the end of the session, learners will be able to highlight ways park and rec departments can partner with a DFC coalition. 

    This talk is available for 1 year from release date!

  • 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.