VIRGINIA RECREATION & PARK SOCIETY

Director

To learn more about Virginia Recreation and Park Society visit: www.vrps.com

Mission: To unite all professionals, students, and interested lay persons engaged in the field of recreation, parks and other leisure services in the Commonwealth of Virginia into one body.

About Vrps

The Virginia Recreation and Park Society is a private, non-profit professional organization, founded in 1953 and incorporated in 1956. Its purpose is to unite all professionals, students, and interested lay persons engaged in the field of recreation, parks and other leisure services in the Commonwealth of Virginia, into one body. The members work together to promote and improve the profession in all its diversity. VRPS is affiliated with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

VRPS Goals

Provide and encourage continuous training opportunities for members; Improve recreation, parks, and leisure services to the public; Update members on current trends and opportunities in the profession; Disseminate information to the public through use of publications and media; Maintain current academic curriculum; Involve interested citizens in advisory, participatory, and volunteer efforts supportive of parks, recreation, and leisure services programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia; Maintain a professional register of qualified recreation and park personnel.

Organization Overview

The Board of Directors for the Virginia Recreation and Park Society is comprised of the President, Vice President, Treasurer, five directors and one lay person. The Board of Directors act as liaisons to the five Service Areas and the various Resource Groups. The Board of Directors sets the overall goals and initiatives for the Society and the policies and guidance to accomplish them. The Executive Director is appointed by the Board to carry out the direction and vision of the organization.

Service Areas

Eastern Service Area

Central Service Area

Northern Service Area

Southwestern Service Area

Western Service Area

Resource Groups

Aquatics Resource Group

Health & Wellness Resource Group

Park Operations Resource Group

Senior Resource Group

Special Event & Marketing Resource Group

Therapeutic Recreation Resource Group

The Foundation of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society has as its core mission the strengthening and enhancement of parks and recreation through scholarships and professional development. Through a tiered giving structure, the Foundation is positioned to increase its reserve, enhancing the level at which we fund scholarships, continuing education, and other needs of our profession. As we develop a culture of generosity, our desire is to Create a Legacy that will support the Foundation for future generations of students and professionals.

The Foundation has funded over $200,000 in scholarships and awards approximately 20 scholarships annually for higher education, conferences, and training opportunities. The Education Endowment Fund has a goal of $1,000,000 to help talented, hard-working professionals stay current with continuing education. This Fund has already raised over $225,000.

Membership Benefits

One of the most frequent benefits cited for belonging to VRPS is “professional interaction.” Workshops, conferences, and involvement at committee and board levels provide valuable training and the opportunity to see what other people in leisure services are doing. VRPS provides publications on current trends, job opportunities, awards, and scholarships. VRPS provides an on-line membership directory that will put you in touch with members throughout the state. VRPS offers professional special recognition, incentive, and credit for innovative projects and services to the Society. VRPS provides discounts on workshops and conference registrations.

VRPS Annual Conference

Each year VRPS members and friends gather for the Annual Conference. This educational exchange provides an opportunity for professionals to discuss trends and areas of common interest. Major speakers highlight the conference in addition to dozens of topical sessions. In addition to the educational aspects, the Conference provides the opportunity for networking and award recognition.