January 2025 – Parks & Recreation - 17

more than they had ever done.
" We're venturing into unchartered territory, " admits
Penn. " Our residents deserve every ounce of energy we
can give, every idea we can create. Relying on the box
limits us. Letting go of it paves the path to a better future
for us all. "
Parks and recreation is the aspect of government that
has the most potential for positive community engagement.
It provides opportunities for enjoyment, social
interaction and growth. Caring is hardwired into us. A
single department can generate enough goodwill that
it can positively shape how people look at their entire
local government. To fully engage our ability to help
our communities, we have to be willing to change how
we look at the field. Letting go of the box creates a state
of clarity that relinquishes expected outcomes, opening
us to epic possibilities.
Author's Note: Thank you to Kara Tomlinson, recreation
leader, for her contributions to this article.
Thomas White, MPA, is Deputy Administrator of Recreation at
Henry County (Georgia) Government (mtwhite@co.henry.ga.us).
Remembering
Dr. Morgan Powell
O
n September 30, 2024, Dr. Morgan Cole Powell
passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family.
Throughout his career in parks and recreation, Powell
held several leadership positions, including serving
as commissioner and president of the Champaign (Illinois)
Park District and the Illinois Association of Park
Districts (IAPD). In 1985, Powell was named Commissioner
of the Year by IAPD (tinyurl.com/2u5npjmr).
He believed every community member deserved access
to nearby parks for recreation and social connection.
Known for his generosity, kindness and thoughtfulness,
Powell was always eager to help others. According
to Powell's obituary, " He never passed up an opportunity
to give to or help others, whether it be calling in
a favor for a friend or giving a child free braces. "
To learn more about Powell's life and career, visit
tinyurl.com/3h5t86jx.
Why NRPA Members Are Glad To Be Involved
N
RPA members from across
the world come together to
help enrich the field of parks and
recreation
through myriad
networking
groups and volunteer opportunities.
Recently, several of
these park and recreation professionals
shared their experiences on
the NRPA Open Space blog:
Rachel Smith, MBA, CPRP,
shares the benefits of
networking within NRPA:
" One of the most powerful ways
to network in the park and recreation
field is by joining professional
associations like NRPA or
state-level organizations.... These
associations offer a wealth of networking
opportunities, including
conferences, workshops and online
forums where you can connect
with peers, mentors and industry
leaders. Actively participating in
association events not only allows
you to exchange ideas and best
practices, but also helps you stay
updated on the latest trends and
developments in the field. "
Tiffany Johnson, Ph.D., CPRP,
shares the benefits of her time
on CAPRA and the Conference
Program Committee:
" ...My networks became stronger,
and I learned more about both organizational
leadership and social
equity. I built a network of professionals
nationwide made up of
people who have had different experiences.
We have bonded in our
personal lives tremendously and
have been each other's shoulders
of support. "
Edward Matthews, MLS, CPRP,
AFO, shares the benefits of
volunteering with NRPA:
" Volunteering for NRPA is not just
about giving back; it's also about
personal growth and fulfillment. It's
a chance to engage in meaningful
activities that contribute to the common
good.... It's an opportunity to
develop new skills, network with exceptional
like-minded professionals,
and gain valuable experience in areas
like event management, environmental
conservation, public speaking and
leadership. The sense of camaraderie
and shared passion among volunteers
creates
a
supportive environment
that fosters personal and professional
development. "
Visit
nrpa.org/Volunteer
to
browse current volunteer opportunities.
PARK
S ANDRECRE AT ION . OR G | J ANUAR Y 2 0 2 5 | Parks & Recreation
17
http://tinyurl.com/2u5npjmr http://tinyurl.com/3h5t86jx http://www.nrpa.org/Volunteer
January 2025 – Parks & Recreation

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