Minnesota Recreation and Park Association upcoming events

Race and Equity Spring Virtual Workshop (12 May 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Rachel Thiemann is the founder of Lead Like It Matters™, a human-centered leadership approach that strengthens communication, psychological safety, and inclusive leadership practices. The Zoom link will be emailed to the address on the registration. Thank you!

More Than ChatGPT: How Can AI Help Rec Departments Deliver Exceptional Experiences? (26 May 2026)

Tue, 26 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

AI is everywhere—but how can parks & rec actually use it? Join to explore practical AI applications beyond ChatGPT or Canva, featuring insights from OpenAI and real case studies. Learn how AI can boost efficiency, inclusion, and personalization—no software engineering degree required.

Understand foundational AI concepts in the context of parks & rec, like Large Language Models, data security, and the concept of AI agents.
Evaluate actual use cases of AI in action such as live translation for customer support, natural language based reporting, and personalized marketing and community engagement.
Create a roadmap for implementing AI within your department’s policy environment, whether your city has adopted official AI guidelines or not.

This virtual workshop is in partnership with Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA). A link will be sent to the email provided. Thank you for your registration!

Vibe Check: Discovering what works in Teen Programming (2 Jun 2026)

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Explore effective needs assessment tools, discover engagement strategies, and collaborate on creative programming ideas for teens. This session will equip recreational professionals to design impactful, inclusive programs that inspire and empower young people in their communities. Join us for an innovative journey!

Discover needs assessment tools for teen programming.
Learn engagement strategies for teens.
Explore ideas on building innovative teen programming.

This virtual workshop is in partnership with Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA). A link will be sent to the email provided. Thank you for your registration!

Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame Benefit Golf Tournament (10 Jun 2026)

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 05:00:00 GMT

The 33rd Annual Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame Benefit Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, June 11 at Edinburgh USA, 8700 Edinbrook Crossing, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443. Check-in time begins at 10:30 a.m.

The Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame will benefit from the proceeds. You can register to play on your own or you can put together a team of your friends, colleagues, and/or softball buddies. You’ll be able to enjoy a mid-summer day on the greens, while helping provide support for Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame.

If you are not interested in playing, there is an opportunity to contribute as a hole sponsor or cash/merchandise contributor. All donations welcome!

MRPA Aquatic Manager Bootcamp (17 Jun 2026)

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

The goal of this virtual "Bootcamp" is to give an opportunity for those seasonal pool managers to receive quick educational sessions on aquatics operations. Topics include common risk management best practices, general pool operations, "things to look for" while our pools are in operation, and drowning prevention.

Register for just one workshop or all three - June 17, 24 and July 8. A Zoom link will be sent to the email on the registration form. Thank you!

Playground Maintenance Course (10 Sep 2026)

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 13:30:00 GMT

The NRPA Playground Maintenance Course is a one-day educational training focused on playground maintenance. This class is different than the CPSI course offering certification. This is an overview of playground safety, standards and guidelines. The fee includes a training book, lunch and CEUs. This course needs a minimum of 25 participants to be held and a maximum of 40.

Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course and Exam - September (23 Sep 2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

The Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course and Exam (CPSI) will be held at the New Brighton Community Center in New Brighton, MN. The registration deadline is September 2, or until filled. The class maximum size is 40 participants. Thank you!

2026 Annual Conference Exhibit Hall - Member Rate (22 Oct 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

This registration is for members of MRPA. We will host our 89th Annual Conference and Exhibit Hall on October 22, 2026. To receive the best booth placement and the greatest exposure in general mailings and email blasts, be sure to register early!

Use DECC’s online request form to order furniture, electric, and internet, and for shipping instructions: https://decc.org/exhibitor-info-resources-exhibit/

*We only accept Visa and MasterCard. We do not accept American Express or Discover at this time. If you prefer, you can fill out the registration and mail in a check to MRPA - Exhibit Hall. Thank you!

2026 Annual Conference Exhibit Hall - Non-Member (22 Oct 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

The Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (MRPA) will host our 89th Annual Conference and Exhibit Hall on October 22, 2026. To receive the best booth placement and the greatest exposure in general mailings and email blasts, be sure to register early! This registration is for non-members of MRPA. It you're interested in getting a discount on your booth, visit MRPA's corporate membership page.

*Use DECC’s online request form to order furniture, electric, and internet, and for shipping instructions: https://decc.org/exhibitor-info-resources-exhibit/