RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONThe Wyoming Recreation and Park Association (WRPA) is a non-profit, professional organization representing the parks, recreation, and leisure industry in Wyoming. We represent over 100 professional, commercial, agency, board/commission, student, and retiree members through the state.
With members in every county, WRPA has a vast network of support and active professionals who are dedicated to improving the qualify of life in Wyoming by providing high quality park and recreation services. Local parks and recreation agencies and state parks serve tens of thousands of residents and tourists each year at parks, open spaces, and recreation facilities, and through active programs for children, adults, and senior citizens.
MISSION
To provide professional support in promoting quality parks and recreation services through education and leadership.
PURPOSEThe purpose of this Association is to promote and improve the parks and recreation profession and its growth throughout the State of Wyoming. To this end, the following objectives guide our work:
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ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTUREBoard of DirectorsWRPA is governed by a nine-member Board of Directors, consisting of:
Professional SectionsWRPA members participate in specialized sections that address specific areas of the parks and recreation field:
Standing Committees
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GET INVOLVED WITH WRPA
WRPA is managed by a dedicated group of recreation professionals who volunteer their time to improve recreation services and opportunities in the state of Wyoming. There are several ways to be involved in WRPA including the following:
- Become a Member - Join our network of professionals dedicated to excellence in parks and recreation
- Serve as a Board Member - Take on leadership roles to guide the association's direction
- Engage in Section Meetings - Participate as a chair or member in your area of specialization
- Act as a Committee Member - Contribute to specific initiatives and projects
- Attend Conferences and Workshops - Participate in professional development opportunities
- Apply for Scholarships and Awards - Recognize excellence and advance your professional development
WRPA SECTIONS | WRPA COMMITTEES |
AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPSWRPA recognizes outstanding contributions to the parks and recreation field through various awards and scholarships: Awards
Scholarships
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OUR HISTORYEarly Beginnings (1951-1965)The roots of organized recreation in Wyoming trace back to May 10-12, 1951, when the first "Conference on Recreation" was held in Casper. This inaugural meeting, attended by 34 people, was sponsored by the University of Wyoming, the National Recreation Association, Casper Community Recreation, Casper Public Schools, the Red Cross, and the Girl Scouts. Regional meetings continued in 1952 in Douglas, Thermopolis, and Rock Springs, but after a brief hiatus, the Wyoming Recreation Association was formally established in Laramie on April 27-28, 1956. Communities represented included Laramie, Casper, Cheyenne, Rock Springs, Cody, Sheridan, Riverton, and Superior. The Modern Era (1965-Present)On February 5, 1965, a pivotal meeting was held at the Fort Sanders Community Center in Laramie to reorganize and strengthen the association. Led by Rich Adams of Laramie, along with Jay Devereaux, Dick Doughty of Lander, and Kenneth Kurtz of Casper, this meeting resulted in the formation of the Wyoming Recreation and Parks Association we know today. At this historic meeting, the newly organized WRPA adopted its Constitution and By-Laws. By this time, membership had grown to 41 active members and eight active organizations. The association had already helped present the first Governor's Conference on Recreation in Wyoming and was accepted as an affiliate member of the newly formed National Recreation and Parks Association. Incorporation and GrowthWRPA became incorporated on February 13, 1974, marking a significant milestone in the organization's development. By 1977, 18 cities and towns in Wyoming had established Recreation Departments, demonstrating the growing impact of the association's advocacy and support. Special Programs and InitiativesHershey Track & Field Program (1978-2013)From 1978 to 2013, WRPA proudly administered the Hershey Track & Field Program in Wyoming. This national program, sponsored by Hershey Food Corporation in partnership with NRPA, promoted athletic excellence and sportsmanship for children ages 9-14. Hundreds of Wyoming youth traveled to the National Finals in Hershey, Pennsylvania, creating lifelong memories and representing the state with pride. Professional CertificationWRPA has long been committed to professional development through certification programs. First discussed in 1973 and formally implemented in the 1980s, our certification program ensures high standards of professional competence in the parks and recreation field. Publications LegacyThroughout our history, WRPA has maintained strong communication with members through various publications:
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NATIONAL AFFILIATION
WRPA is proudly affiliated with the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), connecting Wyoming professionals to national resources, standards, and advocacy efforts.
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CONTACT PO Box 6308 Sheridan, WY 82901 (307)245-3301 |
