Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA)

Promotes Play & Recreation

April 14 - 17, 2025

Statewide Training & Funding Initiative:

Supporting Community Health & Well-Being Through Evidence-Based Park Destinations

IPRA, PlayCore, GameTime, and Cunningham Recreation have partnered in a collaborative effort to improve the quality of life in communities through our Statewide Healthy Play Initiatives. The goal of this partnership is to provide quality education, evidence-based resources, and funding opportunities to create healthy play and recreation spaces across the state of Illinois.

IPRA Commitment to Healthy Communities

Parks are essential to creating healthier, happier communities. This unique continuing education opportunity is designed to support professionals and stakeholders as they make their case and champion high-quality outdoor destinations to advocate for intergenerational, inclusive play and recreation environments. By thoughtfully aligning evidence-based best practices, communities across Illinois have deployed research to demonstrate their impact on community vitality. Be inspired by the leadership case examples and the latest research findings from IPRA’s Statewide Initiative’s Collective Impact Report and learn how to translate data to tell your unique story!  The content, resources, and interactive activities will offer a comprehensive overview and innovative strategies to turn research into practice and validate your investment.

*This Professional Development Event is free and offered at no charge through PlayCore’s Center for Outreach, Research, and Education, GameTime, Cunningham Recreation, and Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA).*

Lunch and CEUs Provided

Lunch, educational resources, and continuing education certificates will be provided. CEUs will be provided for a total of 1.5 Professional Development Hours (0.15 IACET CEU / 1.5 AIA HSW LU / 1.5 LA CES HSW PDH) for learners meeting outlined requirements. The instructor of this learning event is employed by PlayCore and discloses interest in participants partnering with PlayCore on their play and recreation initiatives.