The mission of the Utah Recreation and Parks Association is to actively support and promote the growth, development and preservation of recreation, leisure, parks, and natural resources in the State of Utah. This will be accomplished through:
- Development of high standards of leadership, facilities, and programs.
- Acquiring and disseminating accurate information.
- Promoting interest in and understanding of recreation and parks.
- Acting as liaison with the National Recreation and Park Association as an affiliate member.
The Utah Recreation and Parks Association, URPA, has been serving Parks and Recreation Professionals across Utah since its inception, as the Utah Recreation Society, in 1951. What started as 23 dedicated Parks and Recreation Professionals has grown to over 1,400 members, a 26-person board, 4 regions, and a variety of sections and committees. Our members represent every major recreation emphasis. URPA is an affiliate of the National Recreation and Parks Association, NRPA. Our focus is to bring members together and develop networks of like-minded people wanting to make a difference in the world!
URPA is devoted to providing members with quality, world class and affordable professional development opportunities. Each year URPA hosts an annual conference, multiple specialty trainings, and regular region and section meetings. These trainings and meetings not only offer education and CEU's for our membership but also valuable networking opportunities with professionals from all around Utah. URPA Connect was added in 2020 to better connect our members statewide using online forums and libraries that are updated with current best practices, resources and offers our members the opportunity to spotlight questions and ideas.
URPA offers multiple student and professional scholarships. Student scholarships are offered in partnership with our Member Universities: The University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Utah Tech University, Weber State University and Utah State University. Professional scholarship opportunities include: the Great Western Recreation Scholarship, the Steve & Georgia Carpenter Scholarship, the Fred & Judy Tamagawa Scholarship, and the Michael J Peterson - Learn & Lead Scholarship.
Part of URPA's long-term vision is to bring recognition and awareness to the Parks & Recreation Field. This is accomplished each year through a variety of awards offered to our Agency, Corporate, and Professional Members. Awards include: Lifetime Achievement, Outstanding Volunteer, Partner of the Year, Professional of the Year (in a variety of disciplines), Outstanding Department, Outstanding Program, Outstanding Special Event, Outstanding Adaptive Program, Innovation of the Year, Commitment to Conservation & Sustainability, and Outstanding Facility.
URPA supports difference makers who are making a difference in their communities every day. Parks and Recreation Departments impact communities in every aspect of life, and URPA works to engage communities, leaders, allies, and partners to join forces in support of health and wellness, social equity, conservation and quality of life!