Benefits of Membership

Professional Development

PRPS is the leading source for educational opportunities in the recreation and parks profession in the Commonwealth. Members have access, at special rates, to quality continuing education programs, conferences, workshops, and webinars on a wide range of topics.
   • Pennsylvania Recreation and Parks Conference & Expo
   • Annual Therapeutic Recreation Institute
   • Certified Playground Safety Inspector course and exam
   • Swimming Pool management training and Pesticide Applicator certification exam
   • Park Resource Operation Workshops
   • Biannual Pennsylvania Greenways & Trails Summit
   • Regional workshops on playground safety, therapeutic recreation, and other timely topics
   • Webinars covering timely park and recreation trends
   • CEUs to maintain professional certifications
   • Scholarships for students and professionals

Advocacy

PRPS is the voice of Pennsylvania recreation and parks. We monitor state and federal legislation and inform you on issues that directly impact recreation and parks. We work to preserve and expand funding and technical assistance programs. We actively contribute to:
   • Public advocacy about the economic, environmental, social, and personal benefits of parks and recreation
   • Legislative advocacy and alliances in support of recreation, parks and conservation funds.
   • Representation on important statewide industry advisory groups 
   • Legislative Alerts to members on issues that impact your profession and your organization
   • Good For You, Good For All, Pennsylvania's statewide marketing and branding campaign for Pennsylvania's recreation and parks.

Membership is Valuable

Being a member of PRPS has given me an opportunity to meet and network with professionals in the industry. I've not only made great connections over the years but great friends as well."
Ryan McCleaster, Chief of Recreation, Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District

Networking

Membership provides many opportunities to network with your professional peers! Sharing business and technical resources, professional contacts, program ideas, leadership and fundraising strategies and other assets increases your professional capacity, standing and worth. 

   • Conferences, Summits, workshops, membership meetings, social events, the Dig It! blog, The Scoop, and on social media channels
   • Branch and District-level events, such as, ski socials, golf outings, workshops, program/camp vendor expo, holiday parties, and volunteer opportunities at Hersheypark provide additional opportunities for networking.

Resources

PRPS members and their communities benefit from numerous Society programs and resources:
   • Information on grants and funding programs
   • Members-only access to RecTAP technical assistance grants
   • Information on latest safety standards for pools, playgrounds, and park maintenance
   • Participation in members-only consignment ticket sales program
   • Recognition & Awards Program for professional excellence
   • Technical assistance and resource library
   • Annual Membership Directory and Buyers Guide
   • Pennsylvania Recreation & Parks Magazine and The Scoop
   • Access to group-rate professional liability insurance
   • Career opportunities listing on our website