NRPA members canvas Washington: high attendance, strong advocacy, highlight NRPA Washington Forum - National Recreation and Park Association

Parks & Recreation, April, 2002

The Texas delegation broke into four groups and visited all 30 of their representatives. "We gave them one-page synopses' of the various bills we supported," said Yvonne Washington from the Dallas Department of Parks and Recreation. "One of the interns we met with was a recreation major from Texas A&M. It's was rewarding to see that students are getting involved in all aspects of our profession."

"Everyone was saying they supported our efforts, but didn't have any money to put behind their support," said Don Jessen, from the Addison Park District in Addison, Illinois. "The staff we met was quite young, but very enthusiastic. Next year, I'd like to hand out our Public Policy office's business cards so they can pick up where we leave off."

Several branch, regional and national committees also met to work on NRPA governance and related matters. The Citizen Board Branch worked on many areas to help us develop a wider scope of services for citizens who support parks and recreation.

The tone of the conference was obviously working together to make NRPA stronger. Speaking to the Membership Development Committee chaired by NRPA Membership Director Pat Cartwright, Jim Donhaue, CPRP, from Fairport, New York, suggested that "NRPA consolidate membership committees to enhance communication and streamline data. By developing a critical mass we will expand our partnership opportunities and develop stronger contacts, and in turn support greater NRPA membership development."

The 2003 Midyear policy events are set for February 27-March 2.