Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute 1 and 2

Emerging leaders seek opportunities to learn, explore, and take risks. Minnesota Recreation and Park Association is committed to preparing professionals with the leadership skills needed to sustain and better their organization and the people they serve.  These two programs will alternate years offered.  Please reach out to Michelle Snider at snider@mnrpa.org with any questions.

Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute
Relevant training for individuals who want to grow and develop into strong parks and recreation leaders.
Meets five sessions in the fall.

Begins Tuesday, September 23, 2025 - Maple Grove, MN

Registration deadline: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
*Registration limit of 40 participants

Click here for more information and the fillable registration form

Click here to pay online

ERLI is geared for parks and recreation professionals with less than eight years of experience. Seasoned professionals will serve as the faculty for each session. The program is designed to provide information across a broad spectrum of the profession, while participants also build their professional network. The curriculum focuses on topics and areas related to the profession.

ERLI Class of 2023 in Plymouth 

The Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute (ERLI) 2 was held in the fall of 2024.  ERLI 2 is geared for parks and recreation professionals with more than eight years of experience. The program is designed to provide information across the profession, while participants also build their professional network. The curriculum is centered around the five Ps: personal leadership, people, project management, process and creativity, and presentation and communication. The program will be offered again in 2026 or 2027.

ERLI 2 Class of 2022 at Silverwood Park - Three Rivers Park District

ERLI 2 Class of 2018 in Eagan