The "Happy to Chat" program brings benches to the City of Carmel as a way to spark conversation and build stronger community connections. The project is a collaboration between Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, Mayor Sue Finkam and the City of Carmel. #PowerOfParks

Today, we are thankful for park and recreation professionals 🤩 Okay, we are thankful for park and recreation professionals EVERYDAY. But, we are extra thankful today. Because of the work they do, our communities are happier and healthier. Thank you, park and recreation professionals! What are you thankful for? Learn why you should be grateful for local parks: https://bit.ly/4immZlK #PowerOfParks

Registration is open for Event Management School! Join us January 11-16, 2026, at Oglebay National Training Center in Wheeling, West Virginia. As events have evolved into spectacular productions, event management has become a growing industry with new demands and expectations. Event Management School equips you with applicable and relevant skills through both learning and applied-knowledge projects. Register now: https://bit.ly/4qGaSU7 #NRPALearning

A new learning opportunity opened last week! In this on-demand video recording, you can learn a little more about ADHD, gain insight into how ADHD brains work best and how you can help support a successful working relationship. Get learning: https://bit.ly/4nzAak3 #NRPALearning

Help us choose a theme to guide Park and Recreation Month as well as the NRPA Annual Conference! This year we have three options for you to vote on... 🤝Life in Common - Parks and recreation connect us through the places, stories and experiences we share. Life in Common celebrates those simple yet powerful connections that make our communities stronger. It’s a reminder that in parks and recreation, and in each other, we find the shared moments that bring life to our common ground. 👐The Pursuit Of… - In parks and recreation, our pursuits come alive. The pursuit of joy, movement, connection and community. The Pursuit Of… celebrates the many ways parks and recreation provides meaning, purpose and belonging through shared experiences. Whatever you’re pursuing, it can begin in parks and recreation. 👏The Power Of… - Parks and recreation reveals the power of what connects us. The power of play, nature, community and belonging. The Power Of… celebrates the lasting impact of these shared experiences and the people who make them possible. Together, we harness this power to build healthier, more connected communities for all. Vote now: https://bit.ly/4kBcPgR #ParkAndRecMonth2026 #NRPAConference2026

Across the United States, cities and park districts are facing mounting pressure and increased demands on their park systems. Growing populations, limited budgets and the accelerating effects of climate change have made it even more critical for parks to be responsive and resilient. To meet these challenges, one tool has consistently proven its value: comprehensive, community-driven master planning. A strong master plan provides a strategic framework for investing in community well-being, guiding decision making, attracting funding, and creating parks that deliver lasting social, economic and environmental benefits. Read the Parks & Recreation magazine article from Casey Case and Olivia Lemen to learn how thoughtful, dynamic planning can shape parks that meet community needs today and tomorrow: https://bit.ly/4ooetVr #ParksAndRecMagazine #PowerOfParks

Small, genuine acts of recognition can spark a big, lasting change in your team and workplace culture. This online learning event focuses on building a positive, energized workplace culture through effective staff motivation, teamwork and purpose-based recognition practices. Participants will engage in thought-provoking exercises and practical activities to design cost-effective recognition strategies tailored to employee needs. Start learning: https://bit.ly/4oTNmSa #NRPALearning