Transforming Oil Fields into Parks: A Cornerstone of Just Transition
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on June 27, 2024
In the era of climate change and environmental degradation, the concept of a "just transition" has gained prominence. One notable example is the transformation of oil fields into parks and open space where and when appropriate as determined through a stakeholder engagement process.
Creating a Brighter Future Through Equitable Access to Youth Sports
By Teresa Morrissey and Maureen Neumann | Posted on June 26, 2024
Through the Youth Sports Equity Grant Program, NRPA and Musco Lighting are excited to partner with local park and recreation agencies to increase equitable access to youth sports, especially for youth of color, girls, LGBTQ+ youth, youth from low-income homes and youth with disabilities.
Celebrating Pride: The Power of Partnership and Allyship — Episode 155
By Christina High and Cort Jones | Posted on June 25, 2024
On this episode of Open Space Radio, we discuss an important partnership in Nevada that provides safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to recreate outdoors, build a relationship with nature and build a sense of belonging.
5 Tips for Building a Teen Leadership Program
By Cassie Paddock, CPRP | Posted on June 18, 2024
Starting a teen leadership program is a chance to equip the next generation with skills, confidence and a sense of responsibility. Here are five practical tips to help you create a successful teen leadership program.
Are You Taking Advantage of NRPA’s Volunteer Opportunities?
By Jay Tryon, CPRP | Posted on June 7, 2024
Jay Tryon, CPRP, the deputy director for City of Concord Parks & Recreation, shares how NRPA's various volunteer opportunities have impacted his career.
Transforming the Lives of Older Adults Through Park and Recreation Programs
By Allie Ziegler | Posted on June 3, 2024
The final blog post in this series highlights the transformative impact of parks and recreation on the physical, mental and social well-being of the valued older adults in our communities.
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Recreation
By Tim Herd, CPRE | Posted on May 30, 2024
Tim Herd, CPRE, CEO of the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society, reflects on a provoking thought exercise with his counterparts from other states in which they attempted to develop an alternate term for “recreation and parks.”
Parks and Recreation Stays Committed in its Support of Older Adults
By Allie Ziegler | Posted on May 24, 2024
Despite agency challenges such as navigating budget constraints, managing facility issues, addressing the remaining impacts of COVID-19 and promoting engagement across various communities, park and recreation agencies uphold their commitment to providing meaningful support and programming for community members of all ages.
A Post-Pandemic Increase in Older Adult Programming
By Allie Ziegler | Posted on May 21, 2024
The Supporting Older Adults Through Parks and Recreation report highlights briefly how park and recreation professionals dealt with the lingering impacts of COVID-19 on older adults’ participation.
The Healing Power of Parks: Regenerating Landscapes and Communities
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on May 17, 2024
By restoring damaged landscapes, providing valuable green spaces, and fostering environmental education and awareness, parks can play a significant role in healing the land and building more sustainable and resilient communities.
Legacy Binders: Empowering Employees for Success
By Hannah Rathje | Posted on May 16, 2024
Hannah Rathje's recent transition into the community recreation supervisor position introduced her to a game-changing resource: the "Legacy Binder.”
Benefits of Older Adult Programming at Parks and Recreation
By Allie Ziegler | Posted on May 16, 2024
Learn more about NRPA's recently-released Supporting Older Adults Through Parks and Recreation report.
The Vital Role of Parks and Recreation in Enhancing Family Health & Well-Being
By Cina Makres | Posted on May 15, 2024
This May, we are recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month and the ways in which parks and recreation promotes mental health and well-being. Excitingly, in June, we will continue to lift up the power of parks and recreation in promoting community wellness as we celebrate Family Health & Fitness Day!
Building Belonging: Neurodivergent Perspectives in Parks and Recreation (Part 2) — Episode 154
By Cort Jones and Christina High | Posted on May 14, 2024
On this episode of Open Space Radio, we chat with Tammy Schwab, manager of education and outreach for the resource management division of Fairfax County Park Authority, and John McGovern, principal-in-charge for The WT Group, LLC Accessibility Practice.
NRPA Launches Workforce Development Community of Practice
By Barbara Kapustin | Posted on May 10, 2024
The Workforce Development CoP is a funded opportunity for rural agencies that currently provide workforce development programming through their out-of-school time (OST) services to youth (ages 14-21). The CoP will allow agencies to connect and learn from peers, problem-solve challenges, and receive assistance from cohort peers and industry experts.
Why Parks and Greenspaces are Integral to our Mental Health
By Charissa Hipp | Posted on May 8, 2024
In our technology-driven world filled with constant demands and stimuli, it’s more important than ever to access the healing and restorative benefits of nature. Research shows that when we are in nature our brain behaves differently. Parks and greenspaces are more than just a place to recreate and play — they provide access to nature which has profound health benefits like lowering stress and preventing chronic illness.
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
By Maureen Neumann | Posted on May 1, 2024
This May, we’re recognizing the 75th annual Mental Health Awareness Month. For the past 75 years, this national movement has highlighted the importance of eradicating stigma, extending support, fostering education and advocating for the well-being of those affected by mental illness.
Embracing Opportunities for Growth
By Tiffany Johnson, Ph.D., CPRP | Posted on April 26, 2024
Dr. Tiffany Johnson writes about the importance of volunteering and the great potential for growth because of it.