2025 Micro-Certification: Relational Leadership

Micro-Certification in Relationship Building to Increase Value in Parks and Recreation

Goal: To empower professionals in the field of parks and recreation with the knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate mastery in relationship building, thereby showcasing the fundamental value of parks and recreation to a community.

Mission: The Kansas Recreation and Park Association's Micro-Certification Program is dedicated to elevating professionalism in the field of parks and recreation by providing a comprehensive and specialized curriculum focused on relationship building. Our mission is to equip professionals with the tools and expertise needed to forge meaningful connections within their communities, fostering a deep appreciation for the intrinsic value that parks and recreation bring to individuals, families, and the community at large. Through this program, participants will develop the competencies required to showcase the transformative impact of parks and recreation, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents across Kansas.

Registration Opening Soon


Program Details

- Throughout the course, participants are asked to engage in micro task (such as bi-weekly activity challenges, LinkedIn Private Group posts, 2 virtual events, attend 1 of the free in-person KRPA Regional Education Symposiums, peer-to-peer connections and complete 2 reading reflections) 

- Networking: An excellent chance to connect with fellow professionals and share experiences.

- Earn CEUs: Participants will be eligible to earn CEUs based upon their participation in the program with the potential for up to .5 CEUs.

- Cost: $199

Reading Reflections: Participants are required to read 2 books from a selection of books given by KRPA (Infinite Game, The Art of Gathering, The Power of Moments, or Unreasonable Hospitality, How to Lead when you aren't in Charge) and write a short reflection on your key takeaways. First book is to be completed by August 25th and second book to be completed by November 15th. Audio books are very welcome, and many of the books are available at your local library or through the Libby or Hoopla app for free.

General Timeline of Events:

Month 1 (April): Introduction to Relationship Building in Parks and Recreation
Kickoff Meeting: Registrants must attend on the free spring Regional Member Symposiums
- Email: Post Word Definition Challenge and introduce yourself to the LinkedIn Group
- Small Group Icebreaker Call: Meet Your Accountability Partners
April 15: Virtual Webinar
- LinkedIn Post: Article on Transactional/Relational Definitions

Month 2 (May): Foundations of Effective Communication (Only 3 tasks)
Email: Understanding Community Styles
- Small Group Discussion: How Do You Adapt Your Communication Style?
- LinkedIn Post: Article on Communication Styles

Month 3 (June): Community Engagement Techniques (Only 3 tasks)
Email: Identifying Community Stakeholders
- LinkedIn Post: Article on Engagement Strategies
- Spot the Mistake 

Month 4 (July): Cultural Competency and Inclusivity (Only 3 tasks)
-LinkedIn Post: Marketing Speaker Article
- Email: Start with their name 
-  Small Group Roleplay: Navigating Engagement Scenarios

Month 5 (August): Enhancing Interpersonal Skills 
- Virtual Webinar 2
- Understanding True Value of Parks and Recreation
- Strategic Communication for True Value
- New Mid-Program Book Reflection Discussion Group
*** First
 Book Reflection Due August 25

Month 6 (September): Parks and Recreation Key Messaging
- 5 Key Messaging and Definitions
- LinkedIn Post: Article/Video
- Small Group Zoom Check-In
- Find 5 Images That Reflect the 5 Messages in Your Organization

Month 7 (October): Communicating with Head and Heart
-
 Economic Impact Report Submission (Knowing Your Value)
- New Small Group Brainstorm: “Communicating With Heart” Case Study
- LinkedIn Post: Article on AI (Tone & Role Definitions)
- Create a Stakeholder Letter Using AI (Peer Review Required)

Month 8 (November): Applying Relationship Building in Real Scenarios & Final Reflection
-
 Aliens Have Landed Activity
- Building Connections
- Oral Presentation to Accountability Partner
- Final Survey & Reflection (Program Impact & Personal Growth)
*** Final Book Reflection Due November 15th

Program Ends Before Thanksgiving!

Questions?

Please contact the KRPA office at (785) 235-6533.


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