KRPA Mission Statement - "To advance park and recreation opportunities that enhance the quality of life through education, communication and advocacy."

The Kansas Recreation and Park Association is dedicated to serving as a resource in representing and responding to the needs of its membership. We are committed to education, training programs and representing the membership in advocating for the betterment of our agencies with policy-makers on a local, state and national level.

We take pride in continuing to evaluate our membership services and we strive for everyone's voice in shaping our methods of support. Our goal is to be a significant contributor and key to your professional growth. Now over 1,000 members strong, KRPA has been advocating on behalf of public parks and recreation since it was founded in 1948.

Below are examples of the benefits of membership:

Membership Directory/Buyer's Guide

Published each year by the executive office, the membership directory and buyer's guide serves as an updated contact source for professionals, agencies and commercial vendors throughout the state. In addition, it serves as a guide to the KRPA board of directors and offers a history of officers and award winners. The buyer's guide serves as a valuable resource for park and recreation products and resources. The membership directory and buyer's guide is published in January of each year.

Online Membership Directory

The Kansas Recreation and Park Association's Online Membership Directory serves as an online source for its members to communicate via e-mail with other members. It contains many search options to find professionals by name, city, agency, job function, KRPA Branch, and KRPA Region. In addition, it offers the members an on-line membership renewal option.

Magazine

The Kansas Recreation and Park Association Magazine is published quarterly and mailed to the membership as a benefit of belonging to KRPA. The magazine reports on industry news of interest and offers updates on state agency achievements, legislative issues and calendar of events. KRPA members can also submit articles to be published.

Electronic Newsletter

Current news and information is provided to members on a monthly basis through the Association’s electronic newsletter, KRPA Up Close.  The deadline for submission of articles or information for the newsletter is by the second week of each month.

Government Representation

KRPA is the recognized voice of advocacy on behalf of parks and recreation and leisure services in Kansas. Our goal is to represent the needs of our professionals in the Kansas Statehouse and work with policy-makers as a resource of information and advice regarding issues impacting our profession. We are represented during the legislative session by a contract lobbyist, the executive director and utilize a public policy committee of KRPA members to provide guidance and influence legislation and regulations.

Leadership Opportunities

You will have numerous opportunities to develop leadership abilities and build credentials in the parks, recreation and leisure services field.  Leadership opportunities are available through a variety of categories as members of the KRPA board of directors. 

Professional Development

Association members have the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills at our annual three-day "Tomorrow's Leaders" institute at Tall Oaks Conference Center in Linwood. The KRPA Professional Development Institute develops a comprehensive educational program each year that challenges attendees in specific aspects of park and recreation leadership. In addition, the program provides opportunities for networking with other professionals from around the state.

State Conference

Park and recreation professionals from throughout Kansas gather each year for four days of educational sessions and networking opportunities at the annual KRPA Conference and Trade Show. The conference offers more than 60 educational sessions, a trade show and numerous social functions allowing for networking with fellow professionals.

Certification

KRPA provides opportunities for CEU’s through the many educational workshops and conferences it offers members each year. The Kansas Recreation and Park Association hosts the Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) course, and the National Playground Safety Institute (CPSI).  The Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) is available through the National Recreation and Park Association.

Professional Development Grants

The KRPA Scholarship Association distributes grants to assist professionals in attending state and national training programs through the Larry Heeb Professional Development Fund.

Awards and Honors

Outstanding leaders and members are recognized for their contributions at the annual KRPA Conference and Trade Show. In addition, former leaders are inducted into the KRPA Hall of Fame. The KRPA Awards Committee provides the organization for the awards program.

Professional Staff

The KRPA executive office is eager and anxious to assist you and respond to your questions. Our goal is to be a valuable resource in advocating, communicating and educating on behalf of our entire membership. KRPA can help you connect with other agencies, vendors, organizations and individuals who have the answers, skills or the materials you need to make your job easier and more fun.

Job Center Online

KRPA offers a Job Center Online link that serves as valuable resource for current job postings.  Local parks and recreation agencies in Kansas list their openings in the Job Center Online. Those agencies rely heavily on this form of advertising for their positions. This resource has proven to be effective for professionals who are seeking employment or advancement in the profession.