IPRA celebrates 75 years of supporting the professionals in the field of parks and recreation in 2019.  We would like to thank you for helping us reach this milestone!

We have many exciting things planned for 2019, please enjoy our 75 Stories publication, a written collection of stories from IPRA members and leaders that celebrates the moments, memories, challenges and successes that have made IPRA what it is today.

Throughout 2019 we will be randomly selecting winners of $75 gift cards at IPRA events.  And Debbie Trueblood, IPRA Executive Director, will be traveling the state for 75 Conversations, a statewide, yearlong road trip to meet face to face with the members that are our leaders (current and future!)

We are excited to see what the future holds for IPRA.  Thank you for making us look good. 


Unplug Illinois is a public service campaign designed to help park and recreation agencies communicate the value "unplugging" offers people and communities. 

Unplug Illinois encourages people to get out, unplug, play and engage one another through their local park and recreation agencies.  Whether you are biking with friends on your local trails, playing a sport or taking in a class or simply cooling off at the pool, Illinois is home to thousands of park and recreation facilities that can help you live a happier and healthier life. 

Learn more »

 
    


Sponsored by the Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation (IPRF), these events are for groups or individuals interested in catching a game and supporting the IPRF.  Organize a group trip for your agency, offer the event in your seasonal brochure for community members to purchase individually, or simply bring your family! 

The IPRF will receive a financial contribution form each team solely based upon the number of tickets sold.  100% of the funds raised will be used for the Foundation's professional and student scholarship programs.  Please click below for event details.

Peoria Rivermen: March 23, 2019
Chicago Dogs: June 30, 2019
Joliet Slammers:  July 20, 2019  
Kane County Cougars: August 4, 2019



2019 Annual Conference Award Winners

IPRA Robert Artz Lifetime Achievement Award:  Chuck Szoke, Channahon Park District

IPRA Professional of the Year Award: Mike Adams, Woodridge Park District

IPRA Community Impact Award: Eric Lacher, Batavia Park District

IPRA Young Professional Award: Lukas Wyss, Plainfield Park District

2018 Chairman Awards:

John Robinson, Wood Dale Park District

Teresa Grodsky, Addison Park District

Sherrie Izban, Lily Cache SRA

Dean Bissias, Park District of La Grange

Chris Finn, Park District of La Grange

Distinguished Accredited Agency Status:

Carol Stream Park District                      Glencoe Park District

Cary Park District                                     Glenview Park District

Chicago Park District                               Palatine Park District

Decatur Park District                               Western DuPage Special Recreation Association

Elmhurst Park District                             Worth Park District

Geneseo Park District


For a complete list of award recipients click here


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Illinois Park and Recreation Association

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