IPRA Calendar
IPRA Calendar
Lunch & Learn: Parking Lot Concrete Overlays - aka "Whitetoppings"
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Concrete overlays of existing asphalt parking lots are becoming more widely implemented nationwide.
CPRE Virtual Exam Prep - Planning
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The last of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review of ...
CPRP Virtual Exam Prep - Programming
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The last of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review ...
CPRP Discounted Exam Registration Deadline
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) is a national certification program through the National Recreation and Park Association, and it is designed for park and recreation professionals that wish to put their career on the path to ...
CPRE Discounted Exam Registration Deadline
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification establishes a national standard for managerial, administrative, and executive park and recreation professionals. This is a nationally accredited mastery-level certificate, and ...
Inter-Agency Sports Committee Meeting: Softball Scheduling & Soccer Seeding
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (TR) Section, the Inter-Agency Sports Committee consists of a group of professionals that specialize or work in and around Therapeutic Recreation Athletic programs. Â This meeting we will discuss basketball ...
Lunch & Learn: Comprehensive Planning for Parks and Recreation - Balancing Vision, Engagement, and Implementation
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
A well-crafted comprehensive master plan serves as a roadmap for park and recreation agencies, guiding capital improvements while balancing community needs and financial realities.
Developing SOPs: From Chaos to Clarity
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Join us for an engaging session on creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that can transform your organization’s management and operations.
ProConnect - Digging, Seeding, and Forest Therapy
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
This project fosters teamwork, mindfulness, and a deeper connection to the environment—digging into the earth, planting seeds of growth, and finding clarity through the restorative power of the forest.
Supervisor Symposium
8:45 AM - 3:15 PM
Sponsored by IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, Supervisor Symposium celebrates its 24th year in providing students and professionals in parks, recreation, conservation, and forest preserves a curriculum that builds a strong foundation of basic skills needed
Department Head Committee Learning Lab: Leveling Up
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Located within IPRA's Administration & Finance (A&F) Section, the Department Head Special Interest Group (SIG) consists of a group of department head level professionals who meet to discuss and pursue opportunities for networking, professional ...
Statewide Education & Funding Initiative - Tinley Park
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Building on the success of previous efforts, this initiative continues to promote best practices in parks and recreation while providing innovative education and evidence-based resources to address the evolving needs of communities across the state.
Forest Preserve & Conservation Section Board Meeting
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The Forest Preserve and Conservation (FPC) Section consists of professionals that either specialize or work in and around forest preserves and/or conservation. Â If you are interested in joining the section or simply wish to attend for ...
School Age & Day Camp Committee Meeting
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the School Age & Day Camp Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around before-and-after school programs and camps. If you are ...
Cultural Arts Committee Meeting
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the Cultural Arts Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around dance, music, theatre, and visual arts. If you are interested in joining ...
Risk Management Committee Roundtable
11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Located within IPRA's Administrative & Finance Section, the Risk Management Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in safety/risk management/HR. At this meeting we will have a roundtable ...
Statewide Education & Funding Initiative - Wheeling
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
We’re excited to announce the return of the Statewide Education and Funding Initiative—a collaborative effort by IPRA, GameTime, Cunningham Recreation, and PlayCore to advance community parks and recreation. Building on the success of previous ...
Inclusion Committee Meeting
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Located within IPRA's Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Section, the Inclusion Committee consists of a group of special recreation professionals that either specialize or work in and around inclusion services. The meeting will consist of networking ...
Statewide Education & Funding Initiative - Champaign
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
We’re excited to announce the return of the Statewide Education and Funding Initiative—a collaborative effort by IPRA, GameTime, Cunningham Recreation, and PlayCore to advance community parks and recreation. Building on the success of previous ...
Facility Management Section Board Meeting
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
IPRA's Facility Management (FM) Section consists of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around aquatics, community centers, fitness centers, golf courses, ice areas, and other special facilities. Â If you are ...
Statewide Education & Funding Initiative - O'Fallon
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
We’re excited to announce the return of the Statewide Education and Funding Initiative—a collaborative effort by IPRA, GameTime, Cunningham Recreation, and PlayCore to advance community parks and recreation. Building on the success of previous ...
Developing SOPs: From Chaos to Clarity
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Join us for an engaging session on creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that can transform your organization’s management and operations. This presentation will explore how to develop clear and effective SOPs to streamline processes, ...
Youth & Day Camp Committee Meeting (TR)
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Located within IPRA's Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Section, the Youth & Day Camp Committee consists of a group of professionals that either specialize or work in and around camps at special recreation agencies. If you are interested in joining ...
'25 Diversity Education Institute
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Whether you're just beginning your DEI journey or looking to refine your agency's approach, this dynamic program will provide fresh insights, expert guidance, and valuable connections.
Early Childhood Committee Meeting
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the Early Childhood Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around early childhood programs. If you are interested in joining the ...
Park Pursuit 2025: Highland Park Derby Days
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
The 18th Annual Park Pursuit, sponsored by IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, is modeled after the Emmy Award-winning reality television series 'The Amazing Race'. The event provides park district professionals with the opportunity to engage in a half-day ra
Adult Day Program Committee Meeting
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Located within IPRA's Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Section, the Adult Day Program Committee consists of a group of special recreation professionals that either specialize or work in and around Adult Day Programming. The meeting will consist of opportunities
ProConnect - Activate Your Journey Social
10:30 AM - 2:00 PM
This closing event brings participants together to reflect on their growth, share key takeaways, and strengthen the connections built throughout the program.
Athletics Committee Roundtable
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the Athletic Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around adult and youth athletic leagues, programs, and camps. If you are interested ...
IT Networking Committee Roundtable
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Located within IPRA's Administration & Finance Section, the IT Networking Committee consists of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around information technology. If you are interested in joining the committee or ...
Senior Committee Meeting
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the Senior Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around seniors. At this meeting we will discuss upcoming events, program ideas, network with othe
'25 Financial Sustainability Certificate Program
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The Financial Sustainability Certification Program is designed to enhance and accelerate career growth for park, recreation, and conservation professionals. This intensive 3-day program will address complex issues including the pressing need ...
Real Experiences in an Artificial World
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
In a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, automation, and digital interactions, the essence of genuine human connection in customer service has never been more critical.
Real Experiences in an Artificial World
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
In a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, automation, and digital interactions, the essence of genuine human connection in customer service has never been more critical. This session explores how to deliver authentic, ...
Special Events Committee Meeting
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the Special Events Committee consists of a group of professionals that either specialize or work in and around special events. Â If you are interested in joining the committee or simply wish to ...
Early Childhood Committee Meeting
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the Early Childhood Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around early childhood programs. If you are interested in joining the ...
Parks & Natural Resource Management Section Virtual Roundtable
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
IPRA's Parks & Natural Resource Management (PNRM) Section consists of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around parks and natural resources. Â If you are interested in joining the Section or simply wish to attend ...
Recreation's Role in Advancing Inclusivity for the LGBTQAI2S+ Community
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Park and recreational professionals can create inclusive environments where people are able to find a sense of belonging.
Recreation's Role in Advancing Inclusivity for the LGBTQAI2S+ Community
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Park and recreational professionals can create inclusive environments where people are able to find a sense of belonging. Perhaps the newest frontier in the diversity, equity, and inclusion movement has been with the LGBTQAI2S+ community. This ...
Senior Committee Meeting
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Located within IPRA's Recreation (REC) Section, the Senior Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around seniors. Â At this meeting we will discuss upcoming events, program ideas, ...
How to Think Big in Parks and Recreation
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
This engaging workshop empowers parks and recreation professionals to envision and implement impactful projects, groundbreaking programs, and innovative services that address evolving community needs.
7th Annual Unplug Illinois Day
The 7th Annual Unplug Illinois Day is Saturday, July 12, 2025 – join park, recreation, and conservation agencies state-wide in planning an event to highlight the programs and facilities that make your community thrive! Unplug Illinois promotes the ...
Forest Preserve & Conservation Section Board Meeting
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The Forest Preserve and Conservation (FPC) Section consists of professionals that either specialize or work in and around forest preserves and/or conservation. Â If you are interested in joining the section or simply wish to attend for ...
How to Think Big in Parks and Recreation
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Unlock new potential in this session designed to inspire a bold, expansive approach to community development. This engaging workshop empowers parks and recreation professionals to envision and implement impactful projects, groundbreaking ...
Lunch & Learn: Outdoor Adult Fitness Parks Best Practices for Promoting Community Healthâ„¢
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join us for this informative program and learn about the key benefits of Outdoor Adult Fitness Parks, their applications in outdoor park design, considerations for ensuring total-body fitness, and real-life examples from National Demonstration Sites to ins
Risk Management Committee Roundtable & Social
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Located within IPRA's Administrative & Finance Section, the Risk Management Committee consists of a group of park district professionals that either specialize or work in safety/risk management/HR. At this meeting we will have an virtual ...
IT Networking Committee Roundtable
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Located within IPRA's Administration & Finance Section, the IT Networking Committee consists of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around information technology. If you are interested in joining the committee or ...
Parks & Natural Resource Management Section Virtual Roundtable
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
IPRA's Parks & Natural Resource Management (PNRM) Section consists of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around parks and natural resources. Â If you are interested in joining the Section or simply wish to attend ...
The Leader's Guide to Mental Health & Resiliency
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Stress is an inevitable part of life, whether at home, work, or play. This session focuses on helping individuals understand and manage their responses to stress by recognizing it is a normal reaction to challenging or abnormal situations.
The Leader's Guide to Mental Health & Resiliency
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Stress is an inevitable part of life, whether at home, work, or play. This session focuses on helping individuals understand and manage their responses to stress by recognizing it is a normal reaction to challenging or abnormal situations. ...
Walk the Talk: Mindfulness and Well-Being for Park & Recreation Leaders
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
This webinar will introduce a Mindful Leadership Framework, designed to help balance organizational demands with personal well-being ultimately reducing internal and external conflict.
CPRE Virtual Exam Prep - Exam Basics
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The first of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam. This class will consist of an overview of all five content ...
CPRP Virtual Exam Prep - Exam Basics
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The first of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. This class will consist of an overview of all five ...
IPRF Golf Outing
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
The annual IPRF Golf Outing is a great opportunity to enjoy a day of golf, fun, and networking! The proceeds from this event support the Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation’s programs including scholarships which assists students and professionals in t
Walk the Talk: Mindfulness and Well-Being for Park & Recreation Leaders
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
This webinar will introduce a Mindful Leadership Framework, designed to help balance organizational demands with personal well-being ultimately reducing internal and external conflict. Attendees will learn effective techniques for emotional ...
CPRE Virtual Exam Prep - Communications
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The second of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review ...
CPRP Virtual Exam Prep - Communications
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The second of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive ...
CPRE Virtual Exam Prep - Finance
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
The third of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review ...
CPRP Virtual Exam Prep - Finance
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
The third of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive ...
High Road Leadership: How to Bring People Together in a Divided World
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Join us for a dynamic workshop on the essential principles of transformative leadership.
Parks & Natural Resource Management Section Roundtable & Social
1:30 PM - 5:00 PM
IPRA's Parks & Natural Resource Management (PNRM) Section consists of park district professionals that either specialize or work in and around parks and natural resources. Â If you are interested in joining the Section or simply wish to attend ...
CPRE Virtual Exam Prep - Human Resources
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The fourth of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review ...
CPRP Virtual Exam Prep - Human Resources
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The fourth of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive ...
CPRE Virtual Exam Prep - Operations
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
The fifth of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review ...
High Road Leadership: How to Bring People Together in a Divided World
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Join us for a dynamic workshop on the essential principles of transformative leadership. Based on the work of John Maxwell, you’ll learn how to unite people in a divided world, balancing self-confidence with humility while understanding your ...
CPRP Virtual Exam Prep - Operations
1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
The fifth of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive ...
CPRE Virtual Exam Prep - Planning
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The last of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review of ...
CPRP Virtual Exam Prep - Programming
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
The last of six in a series of virtual classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. This class will provide attendees with an intensive review ...
The Wisdom to Do Good Work: A Crash Course
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
The best preparation for a good world tomorrow is to lead with courage and do good work today.
The Wisdom to Do Good Work: A Crash Course
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
The best preparation for a good world tomorrow is to lead with courage and do good work today. And what does it mean to do good work in parks and recreation? It means focusing on the common good and less so on special interests. It means not ...
The Courage to Be Unfair: Promoting Equity
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Often, inequity is the unintentional biproduct of decision making focused on short term satisfaction or making a special interest group happy and can often come at the expense of those who can go unnoticed or unheard.
The Courage to Be Unfair: Promoting Equity
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Often, inequity is the unintentional biproduct of decision making focused on short term satisfaction or making a special interest group happy and can often come at the expense of those who can go unnoticed or unheard. Good intention may not ...