Upcoming Events

 
 

Upcoming events

    • 03 Dec 2024
    • 8:00 AM
    • 05 Dec 2024
    • 12:00 PM
    • Topeka, KS
    • 55
    Register


    When: December 3-4 CPSI Course (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM - check in at 7:30)
    December 5    CPSI Exam (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - check in at 8:00)

    Where: Shelter #3
    3916 SE Memory Point,
    Topeka, KS 66609

    Lodging: TBA

    CEUs: 1.5

    CPSI Manual
    The CPSI Manual is mailed to registrants for the course.  It is not included in the Exam Only option.

    Cancellation Policy
    No refunds, substitutions allowed.

    Course Description
    Individuals taking the CPSI Classroom Course will gain practical, hands-on training on how to apply the ASTM standards and the CPSC guidelines to playground environments.  Course participants will learn how to identify hazards on public playgrounds and playground equipment, how to rank hazards according to injury potential and how to apply that knowledge and establish a playground safety program.

    The CPSI course materials that must be read in advance will be mailed to the course registrants 4 weeks prior to the course. 

    Course materials are not provided to those that register for the CPSI Exam only.

    The option to take the CPSI exam via computer based testing is available through the NRPA. To obtain additional information please visit www.nrpa.org/cpsi. Please be advised if you register to take the examination with the course, you will not receive a refund to take your exam via computer based testing at a later date. Please decide now if you would like to take the exam on Day 3 of the course or via a Computer Based Exam at a later date.


    Thank you to our CPSI sponsor:




    Please contact the KRPA office if you have questions.

    (785) 235-6533

    jamie@krpa.org

    KRPA Event Policy: 

    No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.


    • 11 Dec 2024
    • 8:00 AM
    • 12 Dec 2024
    • 5:00 PM
    • Hubbard Art Center 309 N. Woodlawn Blvd. Derby, KS 67037
    • 13
    Register

    When: December 11-12, 2024
    Check-In begins at 7:45 AM

    Where: Hubbard Art Center
    309 N. Woodlawn Blvd.
    Derby, KS 67037

    Lodging: TBA

    CEUs:  1.5

    The Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Course is a 2-day training program designed to meet the needs of those working in public and semi-public recreational pool or water park facilities.  The AFO Course offers unique discussions on risk management and pool management as well as training in proper water chemistry, water chemistry challenges and solutions.

    The current Aquatic Facility Operators Manual will be sent to each full course registrant prior to the course.

    Upon successful completion of the AFO Course and 50 question open book exam, participants will be certified for 5 years by the National Certification Board in coordination with the National Recreation and Park Association.

    Who Should Attend

    Aquatic Directors, Recreation Directors, Water Park Directors, Pool Managers, Aquatic Supervisors, Resort/Hotel/Motel Staff, and any staff member responsible for the operation, maintenance and management of an aquatic facility.


    Contact KRPA Office with questions:

    (785) 235-6533

    jamie@krpa.org




    KRPA Event Policy: 

    No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.


    • 11 Dec 2024
    • 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Virtual
    Register


    Intro to AI for Parks and Rec: 101

    Tuesday, December 10th 

    830a - 1100a 

    Fee: $75


    Learning Outcomes: 

    • Identify and Apply Prompt Techniques: Attendees will recall and apply effective prompt methods to enhance productivity in AI-driven tasks relevant to parks and recreation.
    • Utilize AI for Department-Specific Operations: Participants will use AI tools to support department-specific functions, such as creating job descriptions in Human Resources, analyzing financial data, and designing program schedules in Recreation Programming.
    • Generate AI-Powered Marketing Content: Attendees will leverage AI applications to develop and execute marketing strategies, including content creation for digital campaigns, social media, and promotional materials tailored to parks and recreation audiences.



    KRPA Event Policy: 

    No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.


    Commercial Vendor Workshop Attendance
    The Kansas Recreation and Parks Association (KRPA) values the contributions and engagement of our commercial partners. To maintain a professional environment that supports both educational and networking opportunities for our members and sponsors, KRPA has established the following policy regarding commercial vendors attending workshops and events:

    Policy Overview
    Commercial vendors may not register or participate as general workshop attendees unless they are sponsoring the specific event in question. This policy ensures that the presence of commercial entities at KRPA events is aligned with their purpose of networking and building relationships within a professional context, while respecting the intent of these events as learning opportunities for non-commercial attendees.

    Commercial Vendor Definition
    According to the KRPA bylaws Commercial Vendor is defined as: Individuals, organizations, companies, or business firms selling products or services to recreation, park, conservation, and leisure service agencies.

    Exclusions
    Commercial vendors may register and participate in these certification programs as general attendees. These courses are designed to provide specialized training and a certification from the National Recreation and Park Association. We understand the need of vendors may have to receive these certifications.

    Note on KRPA Annual Conference and Trade Registration
    This workshop attendance policy is separate from the KRPA Conference Policy, which outlines guidelines and procedures specific to conference participation and registration for commercial vendors. The conference policy, including requirements for vendor participation and sponsorship opportunities, is available on the Vendor Registration Site. –will link, see what I put on site below.

    Enforcement
    This policy will be enforced by the KRPA staff. Any individual or entity registering in a non-sponsoring capacity, who meets the definition of a Commercial Vendor, will be notified of their ineligibility and provided the opportunity to become an event sponsor. Failure to comply with this policy may result in the cancellation of the registration without a refund.


    • 18 Dec 2024
    • 12:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register
    December 18, 2024 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM | 0.1 CEUs

    Navigating Conflict: Conversations that Connect
    Velma Knowles, Chief Energy Officer, Leaders Pathway
    Difficult conversations, when not handled effectively, or not handled at all, comes with a significant cost. The cost to your business is time and productivity. The cost to relationships in the workplace is a breakdown in trust and engagement. Your organization can’t afford for this to happen. Empower your leaders with the mindset and skillset to engage in tough conversations more effectively. Transform conflict into collaboration and have your tough conversations with less stress and more success. This session will NOT be recorded so you will need to attend live to receive the CEU credit.


    About Velma: Velma Knowles is a Gallup Strengths Certified Coach, Human Behavioral Investigator, and Bestselling Author. From helping to build the Conservation Legacy of the Bahamas to leading award-winning membership growth for associations, Velma's passion is helping organizations build a value-driven culture of belonging. On a personal note, when not building cultures where people feel valued, Velma enjoys photographing birds, bike riding and pretending she likes to exercise.



    • 09 Jan 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register

    January 9, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM  | 0.1 CEUs
    Turning the Power On In Empowerment
    Kelsey Mears, Assistant Director, Marion County Parks and Recreation
    Charles Ryan, CPRP, CPSI, Operations Manager, Marion County Parks and Recreation 
    Learning how to unlock your team's potential through empowerment and distinct culture change from traditional government.  Power and Empowerment are not just buzzwords of the day, but can be an effective leadership strategy to move your team into action. Consider registering for the second part of this topic on January 24.

    About Kelsey: Kelsey Mears is the Assistant Director for Marion County Parks & Recreation. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Parks & Recreation Management with an emphasis on community, commercial and tourism. She is a certified parks and recreation professional with 21 years of experience in municipal Parks & Recreation. Throughout her career she has overseen multiple sports facilities, recreation programs, aquatics, event management and has been in administration for over 7 years. Through her years of service and experience Kelsey has developed into an innovative leader that has a passion for developing herself and her team. 
    About Charles: Charles Ryan is the Operations Manager for the Marion County Parks & Recreation Department where he oversees the operations of 57 unique sites (approximately 2,621 acres). His focus is providing safe recreational opportunities for our community through proper maintenance, conservation, and operations by emphasizing on employee development and public education.  Charles was born and raised in Marion County and has worked for the County for over 17 years with 11 of those being in the Parks & Recreation Department. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources with an emphasis on Organizational Development and maintains his Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) and his Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certifications. 



    • 24 Jan 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register

    January 24, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM | 0.1 CEUs
    Matrix: Dive into a Developmental Plan

    Kelsey Mears, Assistant Director, Marion County Parks and Recreation
    Charles Ryan, CPRP, CPSI, Operations Manager, Marion County Parks and Recreation 

    --Description coming soon----

    About Kelsey: Kelsey Mears is the Assistant Director for Marion County Parks & Recreation. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Parks & Recreation Management with an emphasis on community, commercial and tourism. She is a certified parks and recreation professional with 21 years of experience in municipal Parks & Recreation. Throughout her career she has overseen multiple sports facilities, recreation programs, aquatics, event management and has been in administration for over 7 years. Through her years of service and experience Kelsey has developed into an innovative leader that has a passion for developing herself and her team. 
    About Charles: Charles Ryan is the Operations Manager for the Marion County Parks & Recreation Department where he oversees the operations of 57 unique sites (approximately 2,621 acres). His focus is providing safe recreational opportunities for our community through proper maintenance, conservation, and operations by emphasizing on employee development and public education.  Charles was born and raised in Marion County and has worked for the County for over 17 years with 11 of those being in the Parks & Recreation Department. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources with an emphasis on Organizational Development and maintains his Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) and his Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certifications.


    • 28 Jan 2025
    • 30 Jan 2025
    • Manhattan, KS
    Register



    KRPA Annual Conference and Trade Show 

    January 28-January 30, 2025


    Hilton Garden Inn, Manhattan Kansas

    410 South 3rd St. 

    Manhattan, KS 66502


    Early Bird Cut off date: January 3, 2025



    VENDOR REGISTRATION :

    Commercial companies and their employees must register as a vendor at this link: 

    Vendor Registration


    STUDENTS:

    Student members may attend the Student Summit and conference sessions at no charge IF they pre-register. Students can join KRPA for $15 when registering online for the conference.

    NOTE:  The student registration does not include lunches or evening socials.  Students can purchase tickets in advance for the meals and socials for an extra fee.


    Refunds: Conference Attendees cancellations received by December 31st are entitled to a 100% refund for those that paid by check, and 96% for those paid by credit card.  Cancellations received between January 1 - 6 will receive a 70% refund if paid by check, and a 66% refund if paid by credit card.  No refunds will be given after January 7th

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration FeesAttendee fees must be paid by January 24, 2025


    • 29 Jan 2025
    • 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Hilton Garden Inn Manhattan, KS
    • 44
    Register


    2025 KRPA

    Conference and Trade Show 

    Tuesday, January 28- Thursday, January 30

    Trade Show - Wednesday, January 29 - 11:00am - 3:00pm 


    Hilton Garden Inn Manhattan

    410 South 3rd Street 

    Manhattan, KS 66502

    This registration site is for Sponsors and Exhibitors only. 

    Important: All booth representatives will need to review and sign the 2025 KRPA Conference and Trade Show Terms and Conditions. You can email the completed form to jamie@krpa.org.

    2025 Vendor - KRPA Conference and Trade Show Terms and Conditions.pdf

    We have several sponsorship opportunities available to fit all your needs, you can review them in our sponsor document. 

             2025 KRPA Conference Sponsorship Opportunities                   

    $900 General Conference Sponsor:

    Show your commitment to parks and recreation by sponsoring the largest gathering of professionals in Kansas. This package provides excellent brand visibility and networking opportunities.

    Benefits include:

    A printed list of conference attendees for personalized outreach.

    KRPA membership 

    8x8 Booth (Pipe and Drape, 2 Lunch Tickets, 1 6' draped table, 2 chairs)




     $700 Booth Only

    Includes:

    8x8 Booth (Pipe and Drape, 2 Lunch Tickets, 1 6' draped table, 2 chairs)



    Vendor Conference Session Attendance Policy

    Vendor representatives are welcome to engage with attendees during the designated trade show hours. However, attendance at conference educational sessions is not permitted for vendor representatives unless a Conference Attendee Registration Package has been purchased. If you wish to attend the sessions, please ensure you register as a Vendor and Conference Attendee to gain full access to all educational programming Vendor representatives found attending sessions without proper registration will be asked to leave and directed to the exhibit hall.

    Cancellation Policy

    All requests for cancellation must be in writing. Requests received by December 1, 2024 will receive full refunds (minus a 4% credit card processing fee if applicable). Requests received between December 2-6, 2024 will receive refunds less a $200 per booth cancellation fee. No refunds will be given for cancellations made after December 6, 2024.

    Questions: Email Jamie Reed or call (785) 235-6533

    • 26 Feb 2025
    • 8:00 AM
    • 27 Feb 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • Wichita, KS
    • 30
    Register

    February 26-27, 2025

    Seasons Venue, OJ Watson Park 

    McLean and 27th St IB, Wichita, KS 67217


    Check-In begins at 7:45 A.M.


    Lodging: TBA


    * Early Bird Pricing ENDS Februrary 7, 2025 *

    CEU's:  1.5


    The Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Course is a 2-day training program designed to meet the needs of those working in public and semi-public recreational pool or water park facilities.  The AFO Course offers unique discussions on risk management and pool management as well as training in proper water chemistry, water chemistry challenges and solutions.

    The current Aquatic Facility Operators Manual will be sent to each full course registrant prior to the course.

    Upon successful completion of the AFO Course and 50 question open book exam, participants will be certified for 5 years by the National Certification Board in coordination with the National Recreation and Park Association.

    Who Should Attend

    Aquatic Directors, Recreation Directors, Water Park Directors, Pool Managers, Aquatic Supervisors, Resort/Hotel/Motel Staff, and any staff member responsible for the operation, maintenance and management of an aquatic facility.


    Contact KRPA Office with questions:

    (785) 235-6533

    jamie@krpa.org




    KRPA Event Policy: 

    No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.


    • 26 Feb 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register
    February 26, 2024 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM  | 0.1 CEUs

    Leadership in Action – Integrating Leadership, Equity, Accessibility and Diversity
    Jacob Baker, Recreation Manager, Ocala Parks and Recreation
    This session will go beyond the buzzwords to discuss L.E.A.D principles and how they can be integrated into any management style or organization. The focus of this interactive presentation will be practical implementation and understanding relevant challenges, opportunities and starting points. 
    About Jacob: From the front desk to the field, Jacob has been involved in almost every aspect of recreation. Formerly in education and childcare, Jacob fell in love with recreation in 2012 for what he thought was a temporary job at a municipal aquatic center. He was recently promoted to Recreation Manager.  Previous he supervised the E.D. Croskey Recreation Center as well as the operations of the Mary Sue Rich Community Center, located in the sprawling metropolis of Ocala. As someone who’s directly benefitted from a culturally rich and multifaceted background, he’s aware of the challenges and opportunities faced by parks and recreation professionals as well as our clients. 



    • 04 Mar 2025
    • 8:00 AM
    • 06 Mar 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center 6200 Martway St. Mission, KS 66202
    • 73
    Register

    March 4-6, 2025

    March 5-7 CPSI Course (8:00 am - 5:00 pm - check in at 7:30)

    March 7    CPSI Exam (9:00 am - 12:00 pm - check in at 8:00)

    Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center 

    6200 Martway St. 

    Mission, KS 66202


    Lodging: 

    TBA




    COURSE DESCRIPTION:

    Individuals taking the CPSI Classroom Course will gain practical, hands-on training on how to apply the ASTM standards and the CPSC guidelines to playground environments.  Course participants will learn how to identify hazards on public playgrounds and playground equipment, how to rank hazards according to injury potential and how to apply that knowledge and establish a playground safety program.

    The CPSI course materials that must be read in advance will be mailed to the course registrants 4 weeks prior to the course. 

    Course materials are not provided to those that register for the CPSI Exam only.

    The option to take the CPSI exam via computer based testing is available through the NRPA. To obtain additional information please visit www.nrpa.org/cpsi. Please be advised if you register to take the examination with the course, you will not receive a refund to take your exam via computer based testing at a later date. Please decide now if you would like to take the exam on Day 3 of the course or via a Computer Based Exam at a later date.


    CEUs - 1.5

    Thank you to our CPSI sponsor:



    Please contact the KRPA office if you have questions.

    (785) 235-6533

    jamie@krpa.org


    KRPA Event Policy: 

    No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.


    • 04 Mar 2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Virtual
    Register

    March 4, 2025 | 12:00 - 1:30 PM | 0.1 CEUs 
    Market your TR Program as a RT!

    Alyssa Elsner, CTRS, Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor I, St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation
    Meagan Young, CTRS, Health Program Supervisor, St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation 

    Use the skills you have right in your RT toolbox to help develop a comprehensive marketing plan for your Therapeutic Recreation program and better market yourself as an RT! In this session you will learn how to develop a comprehensive program plan to better market your TR program, develop a Therapeutic Recreation Goal Guide, and learn more about SEO and digital marketing along the way!

    About Alyssa: Alyssa Elsner is formally an Exceptional Student Education Teacher turned Recreation Therapist after some soul searching on how she could better serve her community and award her life a little more work life balance in the name of self-care. Who doesn’t love some self-care? Now she practices what she preaches to my students and really learned how to take care of her well!  One of the favorite parts of her job now of being a Recreation Therapist is the opportunity to serve her community in those same self-care ways that helped her transition from teaching and really improve her quality of life through hobbies, leisure, and so much recreation! 
    About Meagan: Meagan Young is a Certificated Therapeutic Recreation Therapist (CTRS) and holds a Bachelors in Recreation specializing in Therapeutic Recreation and Outdoor Recreation Management. Meagan has over 10 years of experience working in multiple service areas including therapeutic recreation, community recreation, and mental health & addiction services. Meagan is passionate about improving well-being outcomes and reducing health inequities through the strategic use of community led evidence-based programming and collaborative partnerships. 




    • 26 Mar 2025
    • 8:00 AM
    • 27 Mar 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • Lawrence Indoor Aquatic Center 4706 Overland Dr Lawrence, KS 66049
    • 30
    Register

    March 26-27, 2025

    Lawrence Indoor Aquatic Center

    4706 Overland Dr 

    Lawrence, KS 66049


    Check-In begins at 7:45 A.M.


    Lodging: TBA


    * Early Bird Pricing ENDS February 28, 2025 *

    CEU's:  1.5


    The Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Course is a 2-day training program designed to meet the needs of those working in public and semi-public recreational pool or water park facilities.  The AFO Course offers unique discussions on risk management and pool management as well as training in proper water chemistry, water chemistry challenges and solutions.

    The current Aquatic Facility Operators Manual will be sent to each full course registrant prior to the course.

    Upon successful completion of the AFO Course and 50 question open book exam, participants will be certified for 5 years by the National Certification Board in coordination with the National Recreation and Park Association.

    Who Should Attend

    Aquatic Directors, Recreation Directors, Water Park Directors, Pool Managers, Aquatic Supervisors, Resort/Hotel/Motel Staff, and any staff member responsible for the operation, maintenance and management of an aquatic facility.


    Contact KRPA Office with questions:

    (785) 235-6533

    jamie@krpa.org




    KRPA Event Policy: 

    No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.


    • 09 Apr 2025
    • 8:00 AM
    • 10 Apr 2025
    • 5:00 PM
    • Virtual
    • 29
    Register

    April 9-10, 2025

    Virtual 


    Check-In begins at 7:45 A.M.

    * Early Bird Pricing ENDS March 14, 2025 *

    CEU's:  1.5


    The Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) Course is a 2-day training program designed to meet the needs of those working in public and semi-public recreational pool or water park facilities.  The AFO Course offers unique discussions on risk management and pool management as well as training in proper water chemistry, water chemistry challenges and solutions.

    The current Aquatic Facility Operators Manual will be sent to each full course registrant prior to the course.

    Upon successful completion of the AFO Course and 50 question open book exam, participants will be certified for 5 years by the National Certification Board in coordination with the National Recreation and Park Association.

    Who Should Attend

    Aquatic Directors, Recreation Directors, Water Park Directors, Pool Managers, Aquatic Supervisors, Resort/Hotel/Motel Staff, and any staff member responsible for the operation, maintenance and management of an aquatic facility.


    Contact KRPA Office with questions:

    (785) 235-6533

    jamie@krpa.org




    KRPA Event Policy: 

    No Refunds: Please note that all registrations are non-refundable. We regret that we cannot offer refunds for any cancellations.

    Substitutions: We do allow substitutions. If you are unable to attend the event, you may transfer your registration to another person. Please notify us of any substitutions at least 48 hours prior to the event.

    Registration Fees: All registration fees must be paid in full within 30 days of registration. Failure to pay within this timeframe may result in the cancellation of your registration.


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