mParks Michigan Recreation and Park Association

06/19/2026

Today, we recognize and celebrate Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and marks an important milestone in our nation's history.

Juneteenth is a time to reflect on the ongoing pursuit of freedom, equality, and opportunity for all. It is also an opportunity to honor the resilience, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans who have helped shape our communities, parks, and public spaces.

As parks and recreation professionals, we are committed to fostering welcoming and inclusive spaces where everyone can connect, belong, and thrive.

Happy Juneteenth. ❤️🖤💚

06/18/2026

🎉 Celebrating 10 Years of Impact! 🎉

Today, we’re proud to celebrate a major milestone for a valued member of the mParks team - Tina Nowakowski, Director of Communication & Strategic Partnerships, on her 10-year anniversary with mParks!

Over the past decade, Tina has played an instrumental role in strengthening connections across our association, elevating the mParks brand, fostering meaningful partnerships, and helping tell the stories that showcase the value of parks and recreation throughout Michigan.

Her creativity, dedication, strategic vision, and passion for serving our members have made a lasting impact on mParks and the communities we support.

Please join us in congratulating Tina and thanking her for 10 years of outstanding service and leadership. 💙💚

06/15/2026

Congratulations, John! What an accomplishment 🎓

Recreation Supervisor John Gillingham has earned his Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification! CPRP is the national standard for all parks and recreation professionals who want to be at the forefront of their profession. Attaining the CPRP designation acknowledges meeting education and experience qualifications and illustrates a commitment to the profession as well as knowledge and understanding of key concepts within parks and recreation. John joins six other team members of our nationally accredited department as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional. Congrats John (and special kudos for accomplishing this during summer camp season)! We are so happy to have you as part of our team.

06/10/2026

Check out the this new funding opportunity below ⬇️

NOW OPEN: Funding opportunities through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership federal grant program!

This grant program, funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, provides 50/50 matching grants to support locally driven projects that create and revitalize parks.

Learn more and apply today: https://on.doi.gov/4uojyiC

06/04/2026

We cannot wait to network with park and recreation professionals from across the country at the National Recreation and Park Association Annual Conference in Philadelphia! The ideas and connections made will have such an impact on parks and recreation in Michigan.

Join us and thousands of professionals this September 29-October 1: https://conference.nrpa.org/registration/

06/03/2026

☕ Pull up a seat and join the conversation!

mParks members are invited to join Executive Director Nichole Fisher, CMP, for an upcoming Park Bench Chat,an informal virtual forum designed to keep you informed, answer your questions, and hear your feedback.

During these open discussions, we'll talk about:
• The Modernized Governance Framework released last month
• The new Leadership Regions and how they will operate
• Recent updates and what's ahead for mParks

Whether you're looking for clarification on recent changes or simply want to connect with mParks leadership, this is your opportunity to be part of the conversation.

Choose the session that works best for you:
📅 Thursday, June 4
📅 Monday, June 8
📅 Friday, June 12

The Zoom link will be sent in your registration confirmation email.

Register today and join us at the bench - https://shorturl.at/Oh9t6

06/01/2026

🌈 Happy Pride Month from mParks! 🌈

This June, we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and reaffirm our commitment to creating parks, programs, and public spaces where everyone feels welcome, valued, and connected.

Parks and recreation play an important role in fostering belonging and building stronger communities. As we celebrate Pride Month, we recognize the importance of inclusive spaces that encourage people to be themselves, build relationships, and thrive.

Together, we can continue creating environments where all individuals feel seen, respected, and supported.

Happy Pride Month! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

05/13/2026

📣 Calling all mParks members! Join us for our next UNITE Discussion Forum!

The 3 B’s of the Outdoors: Barriers, Belonging & Becoming
🗓 Wednesday, May 27, 2026
⏰ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
💻 Virtual Event | Registration required to receive Zoom link
🎓 0.1 CEUs pending

Presented by Griselda Trevino-Tule, Equity, Inclusion and Diversity Coordinator with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

This engaging discussion will explore how outdoor spaces can become more accessible, welcoming, and meaningful for everyone. Together, we’ll examine barriers that limit participation, hear real stories of impact, and discuss practical strategies that foster belonging, growth, and connection in outdoor environments.

Participants will gain insight into inclusive practices being implemented through DNR programs and initiatives while engaging in thoughtful dialogue and shared perspectives.

👉 Register now and join the conversation - https://shorturl.at/XEtGZ

05/11/2026

2026 NRPA Annual Conference Registration Now Open!

Will you be joining mParks at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference this year in Philadelphia?

Drop a comment if you’ll be there September 29-October 1 and register to connect with professionals across Michigan and the nation.

Register for : https://conference.nrpa.org/registration/

Make sure to follow NRPA for more information - https://www.facebook.com/NationalRecreationandParkAssociation

05/05/2026

Join us at the 2026 Director & Legislator Networking Summit 🏛️

📅 Wednesday, June 3, 2026
⏰ 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Michigan State Capitol – Heritage Room, Lansing

This one-of-a-kind event brings together parks and recreation directors, policymakers, and industry leaders for a full day of meaningful conversation, learning, and connection.

💬 Engage in discussions on today’s legislative landscape
🤝 Build relationships with state legislators
🧠 Gain insights on advocacy, leadership, and emerging issues
🍽️ Enjoy dedicated networking time during lunch with legislators

Whether you're a seasoned advocate or new to public policy, this summit offers valuable tools to elevate your impact and strengthen your community.

🎟️ Register now and be part of the conversation: https://shorturl.at/nf6Gi