Showcase Your Innovation With an NRPA Award

Getting an award not only is a validation of the great work you do, but also can be used to show decision-makers and policymakers the intrinsic value of what you do. Starting January 7, NRPA will begin accepting applications for its 2022 awards program.

Starting January 7, NRPA will begin accepting applications for its 2022 awards program.

Innovation Awards

The NRPA Innovation Awards recognize the latest advancements in the field, showcasing the inspiring park and recreation agencies that have improved their communities through innovative practices.

Innovation in Health Award

This award recognizes a park and recreation agency leading an innovative project that fosters a culture of health in their community. Agencies that have led an initiative that has addressed a critical health need for their community — such as getting residents more active, improving access to healthy food, or implementing policies that encourage healthy behavior — are encouraged to apply.

Innovation in Equity Award

This award recognizes a park and recreation agency leading an innovative project that improves access to the benefits of local parks and recreation for everyone in the community, no matter the color of their skin, age, income level or ability. Agencies that have found an innovative way to improve access for all to a great park through creative programming, community outreach and more are encouraged to apply.

Innovation in Conservation Award

This award recognizes a park and recreation agency leading an innovative project that creates localized solutions for addressing global or regional environmental challenges. Agencies that have addressed a critical environmental need in their community — from habitat preservation or green infrastructure to nature programs and water restoration projects — and have helped educate residents along the way are encouraged to apply.

Innovation in Park Design Award

This award recognizes a park and recreation agency that manages a unique park or facility that embraces innovative technology, strategies or programs to improve their community. Agencies that have designed a great park tailored to their community’s needs and dreams are encouraged to apply.

To learn more about the NRPA Innovation Awards, as well as NRPA’s Spotlight Awards, Scholarships and Fellowships, visit nrpa.org/ Awards.

Taking the Mystery Out of the Awards Process

What can you do to make sure your application stands out from the rest? How does the scoring process work? And, what are some pitfalls to avoid? In the webinar, “Taking the Mystery Out of the NRPA Awards Process,” representatives from the NRPA Awards and Scholarship Committee shed light on the awards application process. Learn more at tinyurl.com/4fce7jyv.

Join the NRPA Awards and Scholarship Committee

Are you interested in volunteering with NRPA? NRPA Awards Committee members facilitate the recognition of individuals and organizations whose activities have advanced the public’s appreciation and enjoyment of parks and recreation by reviewing and scoring awards applications and selecting the Diversity Scholarship, Student Scholarship and Young Professional Fellowship recipients. If you are interested in joining or would like to learn more about this opportunity, contact us at awards@nrpa.org.