As I prepare to attend my fifth NRPA Annual Conference, I’m filled with anticipation and gratitude. Each year, this gathering brings together a dynamic community of professionals dedicated to enhancing parks and recreation across the nation. The theme of this year’s conference, “Where you belong,” resonates deeply with me, as it embodies the essence of what we strive to achieve in our collective work: creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued.
One of the aspects I love most about these conferences is the opportunity to hear inspiring stories and collaborate with experts who foster change at the local level. Despite the national scale of the conference, the ideas and strategies shared are often deeply rooted in local initiatives that provide practical insights that can be applied to communities of all shapes and sizes. The NRPA conference has the unique ability to highlight the power of local spaces and how small-scale actions can lead and inspire significant change on the national level.
This year, I am honored to have the opportunity to take on a new role as a conference speaker. It’s a humbling experience to have the chance to share the story of my agency, including the opportunities we have seized upon as well as the collective challenges we have overcome to promote a multi-generational employment pipeline through program planning. My hope is that by sharing our journey, I can contribute to the advancement and professional development of our field, helping others as they work to grow and create a stronger sense of belonging in their communities.
Another highlight of the conference is learning about the host region. Each year, I’m inspired by how these communities showcase their history through the amazing open spaces they create. Seeing how these communities foster equity, sustainability, and belonging in the places they serve provides a sense of hope and optimism about the future. This year’s conference in Atlanta is certainly no exception, and I am eager to explore the city and see firsthand the innovative approaches the city has taken to enhance their open spaces and services.
The NRPA Annual Conference is a source of inspiration, hope and optimism. It fuels our drive to create a better tomorrow with new ideas and practical solutions to enhance the spaces in our local communities. I’m incredibly thankful to NRPA and all the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to push our field forward. I’m also excited to join my fellow colleagues in Georgia, where we’ll come together to share knowledge, exchange ideas and strengthen our commitment to this field.
Pictured: Tyler Walker (right) and his colleagues at a past NRPA Annual Conference.
While there are hundreds of amazing sessions to select from, the underlying truth is that every session has the same goal: to gather professionals, inspire change and create a future where everyone has a voice and belongs. Our collective mission in parks and recreation is to develop spaces that are inclusive, welcoming and reflective of the diverse communities we serve.
Before I wrap up, a word of advice to those first-time attendees and young professionals: take full advantage of the networking opportunities, excursions and welcome events. The conference is a rare chance to tap into the collective wisdom of thousands of experienced professionals. Be open to new perspectives, seek out connection and let yourself be inspired by the wealth of knowledge around you.
There’s no greater feeling than leaving the NRPA Annual Conference with new contacts, fresh ideas and a renewed passion for making a difference in your community. To both new and returning attendees, I wish you a happy conference, and I can’t wait to share this incredible experience with you all!
Join Tyler at the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference this October 8-10
Tyler Walker (he/him) is a recreation program manager for Township of Pine (Pennsylvania) Parks & Recreation Department.