Why NRPA? - Tip-Off

Parks & Recreation, Sept, 2002

The Core Values Workshop at June's NRPA Board of Trustees' meeting posed an interesting question to participants: Why NRPA? That is, why did they join NPRA? Why support it now? With all of the various organizations and causes deserving of their time, what makes volunteering for NRPA so high on their list?

For many, NPRA is a good career move. The networking, leadership opportunities and educational programs help professionals advance in their careers. Others noted that NRPA helps them do their job better. "NRPA is one-stop shopping. I can get help with advocacy, ideas for our playgrounds and networks to develop staff," was one response.

Others valued NRPA's successful track record and wanted "to be a part of the solution." Being part of a team that accomplishes incredible things, paying back an organization that helped their career, and helping to make decisions that affect our nation and our communities were some of the reasons cited. NRPA and its policies and programs permeate the park and recreation profession. From setting standards to creating curriculum, from developing advocates to certifying organizations, NPRA leaves a positive mark and many want to be part of that process.