contentsfebruary 2024 volume 59 | number 2 | parksandrecreation.org Stafford County (Virginia) Parks and Recreation creates opportunities for neurodiverse individuals to develop professional skills through the Stafford Connects program. FEATURES 32 30 Under 30 for 2024 Vitisia Paynich and Michael Biedenstein, CPRP, AFO Parks & Recreation magazine and NRPA's Young Professional Network unveil the fourth annual program spotlighting the top 30 young park and recreation professionals. 42 Stafford Connects Elena Messenger, M.S., CTRS, CPRP Learn how this program connects neurodiverse individuals to meaningful employment opportunities. 48 When My Job Became My Career Jim O'Connell Explore the journey of a 30year park and recreation professional and his advice for those in the field. 4 Parks & Recreation | FEBR U AR Y 2 0 2 4 | PARK S ANDRECRE AT ION . OR Ghttp://www.parksandrecreation.org