Pay It Forward
The Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation supports the next generation of park and recreation professionals through scholarships, education, and community investment.
Mission, Vision & Values
Be a sustainable philanthropic organization benefitting members of the Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA).
Invest in developing park and recreation professionals to achieve their full potential.
- Advancement of Illinois parks, recreation, special recreation, and conservation professionals.
- Committed to supporting students in the parks, recreation, therapeutic recreation, and conservation fields.
- Dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Help Build the Pathway to Success
Regardless of the position you hold, you are making a difference in the lives of your constituency. Though your journey is not over, we are asking you to Pay it Forward — to reach back and help equip the next generation of park and recreation professionals.
Your contributions fund scholarships that can cover up to 100% of an applicant's educational opportunity, helping professionals attend development courses, obtain certifications, and advance their careers.
When you invest in the education of our park and recreation professionals, you are actively investing in bettering your community and promoting parks and recreation in Illinois.
Make a DonationParks & Recreation Transform Communities
Mental Health
People living more than 1km from green space have nearly 50% higher odds of experiencing stress. Parks are essential to community well-being.
Youth Development
83% of park and recreation agencies offer summer camp programs. More than 4 in 5 agencies provide out-of-school time programs serving millions of children.
Environmental Stewardship
Youth who spend more time in nature place a higher value on the environment and develop greater pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors.
IPRF Scholarships
Looking to obtain a certification or attend a professional development event? IPRF scholarships can help you reach your professional goals.
Professional Scholarship
For working park and recreation professionals looking to attend IPRA events, workshops, or earn certifications.
- Covers IPRA events and workshops
- Certification and recertification costs
- Professional development courses
- Up to 100% reimbursement
Student Scholarship
For students pursuing careers in parks, recreation, or related fields who want to attend educational events.
- Conference registration coverage
- Professional development events
- Mentoring opportunities
- Up to 100% reimbursement
After You Receive a Scholarship
Within 30 days of completing your educational opportunity, you must: provide proof of attendance (certificate, screenshot, etc.), submit a headshot for promotional materials, and provide the address for your reimbursement check. Please allow 4-6 weeks for processing.
How Does My Donation Help?
Every dollar goes toward supporting the professionals who serve our communities.
Fund Certifications
Help professionals obtain CPRP, CPRE, and other certifications that elevate the quality of service in their communities.
Support Education
Enable attendance at conferences, workshops, and professional development events that build skills and knowledge.
Grow Future Leaders
Student scholarships help the next generation of park and recreation professionals launch their careers with confidence.
Make a Difference Today
Your donation directly funds scholarships for park and recreation professionals and students across Illinois. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps build the pathway to success.
IPRF Golf Outing
Annual IPRF Golf Outing
Join us for IPRF's annual golf outing — a fun day on the course that supports scholarships and professional development for park and recreation professionals across Illinois.
Thank you to all of our sponsors for supporting the Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation!
Sponsorships for Education Programs
IPRF supports education programs through financial sponsorships. Submit your application to fund professional development opportunities.
Have questions about foundation sponsorships or making a donation? David can help.