| All things WRPA! |
Do you have a favorite photo that captures the spirit of parks, recreation, or community in Washington? Send us your best shot to be featured in the next newsletter. Share your creativity and help us celebrate the beauty and energy of our parks and programs.
Submit your photo today and let your work be seen by the WRPA community!
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We want to know how you unwind and have fun! Share a photo and a brief description of how you recreate. Whether it's hiking in the mountains, relaxing with a good book, or anything in between, we’d love to see how you enjoy your free time. Send us your snapshots and stories today!
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Spotlight Professional - Rick Bruya, CPRP, CYSA
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Recreation Coordinator with the City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Department
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After 33 years with Auburn Parks, Rick retired in 2025. A dedicated WRPA leader and presenter, he championed inclusive sports programs and launched a successful pickleball initiative.
His advice: network early and find mentors. His favorite memories—Saturday mornings at the fields—capture the heart of community recreation.
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NRPA Announces Vernā Myers as the Keynote Speaker for the 2023 NRPA Annual Conference
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Find Your WRPA Network
Connect with professionals who do the same work you do. WRPA Networks offer a space to collaborate, share ideas, and build lasting connections. Join a network to stay inspired, informed, and supported in your career.
By joining a WRPA Network, you’ll gain:
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Meaningful Connections: Build relationships with peers who do the same work you do.
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Ongoing Support: Tap into the knowledge and experience of fellow professionals through regular meetings and online discussions.
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Renewed Passion: Surround yourself with others who inspire, motivate, and help you grow in your career.
Stay Connected with Network E-Lists
Each WRPA Network has an e-list, a group email tool for members to share updates, ask questions, and collaborate easily. No login required! View the step-by-step video below.
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Secure your spot for the 2026 WRPA Conference and Tradeshow in Tacoma, April 21–24. Enjoy four days of networking, inspiring sessions, social events, exclusive add-ons, a keynote speaker, and partnership opportunities. Connect, learn, and recharge.
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Join us April 21–24 in Tacoma to help create a smooth, welcoming experience for speakers and attendees. Volunteers will host sessions, assist with timing and Q&A, manage handouts, and support CEU forms.
Sign up today to connect with the WRPA community and gain visibility while making a meaningful impact.
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MLS GO PLAY FUND - NRPA Grant
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NRPA is partnering with MLS GO and RCX Sports to distribute up to $100,000 through the MLS GO PLAY FUND to support local park and recreation agencies.
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Announcements & Highlights
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Share Summer Opportunities
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Help connect students with opportunities.
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Share your agency’s summer internships or seasonal roles with us, including position details and application instructions. Your input helps us connect students and emerging professionals to opportunities in the field.
Post your opening on our Job Board.
ADD YOUR POSITION
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WRPA Webinar: Mental Health, Resilience & Inclusive Spaces
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Monday, March 9 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM PST
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Join Paralympian Amon Abraham for a webinar on building supportive, inclusive communities. Learn to recognize mental health challenges, foster resilience, and promote well-being.
SECURE YOUR SPOT
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WRPA Webinar: The Economics of Recreation in Washington
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Tuesday, March 31 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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Explore how outdoor recreation drives Washington’s economy, supporting jobs, businesses, and communities. Learn current data on spending, wages, and public benefits, plus access barriers.
Speaker: Leah Dobey, Policy Specialist, Recreation and Conservation Office
SECURE YOUR SPOT
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Expand Your Reach by
Partnering with WRPA
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Explore WRPA's Offerings for 2026!
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WRPA is thrilled to collaborate with sponsors, exhibitors, and organizations throughout 2026!
It’s a great opportunity to elevate your brand, connect with industry leaders, and showcase your impact across our events, programs, and statewide initiatives.
Explore our partnership opportunities and join us in making 2026 an unforgettable year for parks and recreation!
PARTNER WITH WRPA
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Discover the Benefits of WRPA Membership
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WRPA offers year-round opportunities to learn, connect, and grow through:
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Access to industry resources, a job board, member directory, discounts, and awards programs
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Networking through regional groups and interest-based professional networks
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Training, including our Annual Conference, CPSI certification, Fall Training, and CEU-eligible workshops
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Advocacy with legislative updates, training, and representation in Olympia
Whether you're an emerging professional or a seasoned leader, WRPA has something for you.
LEARN MORE
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Be Featured in the Next Newsletter
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WRPA Wants to Feature You!
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We’re looking for content for our newsletter and social media, including:
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How Do You Recreate? – Share how you stay active! Whether it’s hiking, running, or simply enjoying your local park, send us a photo and a brief description of your favorite way to recreate.
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Spotlight Professional – We want to highlight members from all backgrounds and experiences. Interested in being featured? Complete this Word Doc form and email it to [email protected].
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Photo of the Month – Send us your best shot and we'll feature it on the Photo of the Month section.
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Email submissions to [email protected] for a chance to be featured in the newsletter and on social media!
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Follow WRPA on Facebook and Instagram to never miss an update!
- Follow us today and engage with our posts
- Share your thoughts and comments
- Tag us in your photos and stories
- Be the first to know WRPA news and updates
Be a part of our growing, vibrant online community!
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
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WRPA is a membership-driven organization. By sharing your energy and expertise, you can help make WRPA an even more effective professional resource.
Become a volunteer and help WRPA grow. Learn more about valuable opportunities today!
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Thank You, Renewing Members
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Agency Members:
- Burien Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Department
- City of Bonney Lake
- City of Chehalis Parks & Recreation
- City of Poulsbo Parks & Recreation Dept
- City of Richland-Parks and Public Facilities
- City of Wenatchee Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Department
- Colfax Parks & Recreation
- Lacey Parks & Recreation
- Moses Lake Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services
- Selah Parks & Recreation
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Individual Members:
- City of Enumclaw
- Pullman Parks and Recreation
- MxM Landscape Architecture
- Northwest Playground Equipment, Inc.
- Schemata Workshop, Inc.
- TMI Sustainable Aquatics
- Vortex Aquatic Structures
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Member Data from January - February 2026
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