The Illinois Park and Recreation Association Board is responsible for setting the strategic direction, establishing policy, and ensuring the fiscal integrity of the Association. In order to ensure a strong vibrant organization relevant to the park and recreation industry, and one that can effectively lead the well-being of its membership it is imperative that a diverse and dedicated Board is in place to lead the organization. The IPRA seeks Board members who internalize the core value of integrity and that have demonstrated a commitment to the field of parks and recreation.

Currently the IPRA Board is seeking candidates for three positions.

Two positions are for Chicago Metro Region Representative and Southern Region Representative. Both positions have a three (3) year term.  For more information on these roles, please refer to our IPRA Board Geographic Representatives Job Description.  These board candidate applications are due Friday, August 23 by 5:00 PM.

The third position is a newly announced opening due to a recent vacancy.  This position is for Section Director Council Representative and will be for the remaining term of two (2) years.  Anyone interested in this position must have served in either a Section Director or Membership Council Representative in the past.  For more information on this role, please refer to our IPRA Board Section Director Representative Job Description.  This board candidate application is due Friday, August 30 by 5pm.

In accordance with the bylaws, the Governance Committee will review and interview the candidates identified to determine eligibility, then make a recommendation to the Board for the slate, for election by the members.  Opportunities to participate on the IPRA Board of Directors come annually in conjunction with the end of terms or as vacancies occur which may be filled in the interim per the bylaws.

The Illinois Park and Recreation Association Board is responsible for setting the strategic direction, establishing policy, and ensuring the fiscal integrity of the Association. In order to ensure a strong vibrant organization relevant to the park and recreation industry, and one that can effectively lead the well-being of its membership it is imperative that a diverse and dedicated Board is in place to lead the organization. The IPRA seeks Board members who internalize the core value of integrity and that have demonstrated a commitment to the field of parks and recreation.  

Characteristics and Attributes of an ideal IPRA Board Member 

Proven Performance

Leadership requires knowledge, talent, skill, vitality, and the desire to make a difference.  In the association environment that translates into a solid track record of contribution to the success of programs, projects, or events. 

Commitment 

Serving as an association leader is both an honor and a reward, but it requires a demonstrated commitment to the organization and its mission and goals.

Time to Serve

Participating fully requires time to prepare for, attend, and on occasion travel to and from association meetings, events, and activities.

Understanding of Teamwork

Many people contribute their efforts toward the realization of the association’s strategic plan.  Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills are essential for effective teamwork.

Communication

By virtue of the positive current leaders are mentors and teachers to future leaders.  Enthusiasm for serving the association is an important ingredient that leaders must be able to pass on to their successors.

Ability to Subordinate Special Interests

Leaders often emerge because of their special expertise or effective representation of a specific constituency.  Leadership, however, may require subordinating those interests for the greater good of the association.