Just like Thanksgiving seconds, we thought we would “pile on” another Thanksgiving related post this week.  We couldn’t help ourselves; our thankfulness is overflowing! 

The staff here at NRPA headquarters took a few moments to reflect and think about the amazing members we have. After all, most of the great work of local parks and recreation we are thankful for wouldn’t be a reality without our members and the dedicated park and recreation professionals, staff and volunteers that make everything happen.  

Staff jotting down why they are thankful for the great members of NRPA! 

Here’s why we are thankful for you, NRPA members: 

“For your work getting kids in the great outdoors” – Eric Hamp, Senior Manager, Member Relations 

“Dedication and devotion to your communities” – Julie Boland, Certification Manager

“For your creative and inspiring ideas around Park and Recreation Month. I love how you take the main idea and make it into something bigger than we could’ve imagined.” – Roxanne Sutton, Marketing and Communications Specialist 

“The kindness you display on a daily basis. I am beyond impressed with how open, warm and committed you are to your communities.” – Tiffany Walther, Membership Manager

“For what you do for conservation and management of natural resources” – Rich Dolesh, VP of Conservation and Parks 

“For filling out PRORAGIS profiles!” – Daina Ajayi, Research Specialist 

“For increasing physical activity and improving nutrition among our nation’s youth” – Kellie May, Senior Program Manager

“The ability you have to bring fun and the true meaning of quality of life into a community” – Lauren Hoffmann, Senior PR and Communications Manager

“For renewing membership at an unprecedented rate” – Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro, VP of Membership and Professional Development

“For sending in great article ideas for Parks & Recreation Magazine and volunteering to write” – Danielle Taylor, Senior Editor, Parks & Recreation Magazine

“For your passion and expertise” – Peter Magnuson, Director of Marketing and Matt Rumbaugh, Director of Professional Development

“For reading Parks & Recreation Magazine” – Dana Storm, Advertising Sales Manager

“For working so hard to create, maintain and support something all of us can enjoy” – Molly Andrews, Customer Service Coordinator 

“For never ceasing to amaze me in all that you do to make a difference in the communities you serve. You are absolutely essential for the future of our country.” – Barbara Tulipane, President and CEO  

So with that, we want to say “Thanks” NRPA members.  Here’s to a very happy Thanksgiving!