Individual Membership
Now more than ever, the Illinois Park & Recreation Association is essential to the park and recreation professional community. As you work to meet today's unprecedented challenges, IPRA is here to support you! Check out all of our membership options & benefits
Your Membership Experience Includes
Professional Development Savings
Receive discounted registration rates for annual conference, educational events, certifications and more.
Career-Specific Networking
Get involved in Sections and Special Interest Committees, network in the CommUnity and connect with professionals who share your interests.
Access to Resources
Stay informed with member communications, tools and resources to support your professional growth.
Make a Bigger Impact
Be part of a statewide community that supports the parks, recreation and conservation profession.
Before You Apply
A few important things to know before you apply for membership.
Changed jobs recently?
Your IPRA membership goes with you, not your agency! If you had a membership through a previous employer, there’s no need to start over. Just log into your account and update your contact information. Need help? Contact us at membership@ilipra.org .
Thinking about joining as a new Professional Member? Hold off until October 1!
Our 15-month membership for new professionals begins October 1, 2026. Apply on or after October 1 and your membership will be active through December 2027! If you join before October 1, your membership will expire in December 2026.
Looking to attend the Soaring to New Heights Conference?
Plan ahead! New memberships can take up to five business days to appear in the conference registration database. Be sure to allow enough time for your membership to process before registering for conference.
Membership Types
Choose the membership that's right for you. Members are required to join at the highest membership level for which they are eligible.
Professional
Illinois professionals in the field of parks, recreation or conservation within the Chicago Metro Counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake & Will.
Join NowProfessional Non-Metro
Illinois professionals in the field of parks, recreation or conservation outside of the Chicago Metro Counties of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake & Will.
Join NowAdvocate
Full time park & recreation professionals working outside of Illinois, professionals who are employed at only a part-time position, people employed by a private recreation entity, a person permanently retired from the field, a person representing an association or foundation related to the field, or a person actively seeking employment in the field. Upon recommendation to and approval to the board, a former professional who wishes to stay connected to the field, but who is not eligible for Commercial membership, may obtain Advocate status.
Join NowStudent & Faculty
Complimentary student and faculty membership is available to individuals who are currently full-time students or faculty members at a school, college, or university. IPRA supports pre-professionals through mentoring, scholarships, and professional development opportunities.
Join NowLooking for a Commercial Membership?
If you are a business, vendor or organization, explore our Commercial Membership options.
What Our Members Say
IPRA provides amazing opportunities to learn, connect and grow. The networking and support from other professionals is invaluable.– IPRA Member
Being a member keeps me informed, inspired and connected to a community that truly understands the work we do.– IPRA Member
Need Help?
We're here to answer your questions and help you find the right membership option.