2016-17 ProConnect

IPRA is thrilled to open applications for the 2016-2017 year for the ProConnect mentoring program. As you’ve heard, this program received a national award for innovation and participants gave it a 97 percent approval in its first year. The program is designed for all levels of professionals, matching them into a three-tiered mentoring team including early career, mid-level, and advanced professionals/retirees in each team. The teams meet together at five events over six months including events which feature educational topics, networking, a service project, and the culmination luncheon. This program is in partnership with University of St. Francis and is hosted by the ProConnect Board of Regents. Applications are due by August 1. Click here for information and application.

Here’s what some of the 2015-2016 class of mentors and mentees, said about their experience:

"ProConnect provides a unique, structured and informal opportunity to connect various level of professionals in a team setting that allows for us all to share and learn from one another."-Carlo Capalbo
"The best part of the program was meeting new people and connecting with my team. This program allowed the opportunity to formally and informally grow our relationship. I really enjoyed getting to know my mentees. They both are great professionals and I know they will go far. Even though I was the mentor, I learned just as much from them and was able to reflect on my own personal growth." -Laura Gallagher
"I like the Salvation Army the best. It was a great way to bond with my group and provide community service at the same time." - Angus Shields
"The best part of being a part of ProConnect was networking with my peers. As somebody who didn't grow up in parks and rec, it’s very nice to be able to converse and learn from those who have been in the field longer than I have." -Taylor Hamm
"The best part of this program for me was being given the opportunity to meet two extremely intelligent professionals. Both of my mentors have been in the field for a while now, and have many experiences to share. Our personalities all clicked right away, and I was able to instantly trust both of them." - Emma Edmondson
"The best part of my experience was being able to form relationships with people in the industry. The program also was fundamental in helping me obtain my current job with the Glenview Park District." - Daniel Bregman

We will also be hosting ProConnect South in southern Illinois in collaboration with Southern Illinois Park and Recreation Association (SIPRA). For more information about South, please contact Kimberly Caughran at the Village of Godfrey, Parks and Recreation.

Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation (IPRF) Board Position

Additionally, the Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation (IPRF) has an opening for a new board member. The application is available online. Applications are due to Mike Clark by July 5 at noon. This new board member will serve out a term ending January 31, 2018 and could run again at that time. IPRF board meetings are held on a monthly basis, typically on the second Friday from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM at the IPRA office in La Grange or board members may choose to call in. If you have questions about this position, feel free to reach out to either IPRF Chair Mike Clark or to me at debbie@ilipra.org

It is a busy time for park and recreation professionals. I hope you have a fantastic summer and the weather cooperates with all your programs and special events.

Debbie Trueblood, CAE

Executive Director

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