If you, like many park and recreation professionals, are just getting your head above water after the busy summer, we understand. We hope you get a minute to catch your breath and recover from the hectic schedule. At IPRA, we are ready for fall, and we have so much going on to serve you and make your professional life a little easier for you.

The year of the studies. This last year we have been a department of studies. First we completed a feasibility study for a recreation center. Next, a market study and business plan for a multi-sport turf complex.

The Awards and Recognition Programs are a wonderful way to recognize leaders in the field and outstanding projects accomplished over the past year.

It's that time of year again! Donate to the 2017 IPRF Silent Auction! The Silent Auction is a way in which the Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation (IPRF) raises funds for the Illinois Park and Recreation Student Scholarship Fund. The scholarship fund has been created to give high achieving students the opportunity to attend professional development conferences and workshops. The IPRF provides resources to park and recreation agencies and professionals statewide, and this scholarship is an important aspect of this commitment, as they work toward developing students professionally through networking and education.

The annual Agency Showcase is a conference tradition that brings together all professionals in recreation and conservation industries and spotlights the bright ideas exhibited by these agencies.

Nationally recognized speaker, Ian Hill, will lead off the fifth year of the Leadership Academy with a moving and thought-provoking keynote as he discusses on the topic of "The Power of Community Alignment."

The CPSI program offers the most comprehensive and up-to-date training on playground safety as well as provides certification for playground safety inspectors.

Certification is important to demonstrate that you have an understanding of the basic competencies needed to be successful in the park and recreation profession.

Professional Development School (PDS) is the longest standing educational and networking opportunity offered by Illinois Park and Recreation Association. The tradition of Illinois park and recreation professionals attending Professional Development School goes back many years creating thousands of graduates. This professional level school provides park and recreation professionals the opportunity to experience a high quality education in a small, student-focused atmosphere.

We bring the professional development right to you, from the convenience of your home or office.

Enjoy a beautiful day on the greens at Tanna Farms in Geneva at the annual Joint Section Golf Outing!

• Recreation Supervisor - Gymnastics & Performing Arts
• Information Technology Manager
• Leisure Services Supervisor - Figure Skating
• Recreation Intern
• Ice Rink/Aquatics Manager

Visit the IPRA Career Center for details!