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Why IPRA
Our tagline is "Learn. Connect. Inspire". That's What it is. So what? Why is that important? I have been a member of IPRA since 1986. I have served on the Facility Management Section Board, Recreation Section Board, various committees, presented at conference, and most recently assisted with the development of the Leadership Academy, was elected to the Board of Directors, and participated in the new ProConnect Mentoring Programs. I have had the privilege and honor to work with hundreds of people that have helped shape who I am today. None of that would have been possible without IPRA. I am firm believer that all of us are more effective than any one of us. So I ask you...Why IPRA? How can you connect and engage with our association to ensure we are continuously improving and adding value for our members? Our association is not perfect, and we have a great deal of work ahead of us. We can streamline the association to more effectively empower volunteers and staff. We are planning the launch of our Community Campaign "UnPlug Illinois." Year two of ProConnect and possibly a ProConnect South for our members in Southern Illinois. We can more effectively align our educational programs and sessions to ensure quality and minimize redundancy. Never underestimate the power and potential of making connections and building relationships in this industry because you never know what the future holds. A quick story: When I was finishing my internship as a 22-year-old with the Schaumburg Park District back in 1986 I saw a job announcement through IPRA for an Athletic Supervisor Position with the Homewood Flossmoor Park District. I sent in my resume, interviewed with Chuck Balling, and fortunately Chuck took a chance on a young college graduate from Southern Illinois University. About nine weeks later, I received a call from Schaumburg offering me a position to come back to the Schaumburg Park District. I was terrified, not knowing what to do. A colleague encouraged me to be honest and talk to Chuck. Chuck's response was straight forward but incredibly powerful. He simply said I would hate to lose you this quickly, but you have to trust your heart . My heart told me to take the chance and go back to Schaumburg. Chuck Balling is retiring this spring, and to me Chuck epitomizes what makes our industry and association so special. While I only worked for him for nine weeks, he has always been a significant part of my professional life. I have learned from him, made connections through him, and yes he has inspired me to strive to be the best, serving and leading others. Chuck has served our association in so many ways it would be hard to list them all. In 2008 when I applied for the Executive Director position in Northbrook, Chuck provided me tremendous insight, and little did I know he was asked to be part of the interview team. One extremely powerful connection that started in 1986 evolved into a personal and professional friendship and a mentor that I will always cherish. Thank you, Chuck. You are an amazing person and professional, and we will all miss you. Rick Hanetho Executive Director, Northbrook Park District |
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