HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-06-2025 Agenda Parks & Recreation Board
* Regular Meeting
CITY OF May 6, 2025 - 5:30 PM
J\IJJ3JI&.N Classroom, Auburn Community and Events
Center
WASHINGTON
AGENDA
CALL TO ORDER
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
A. The Parks and Recreation Board Meeting scheduled for Tuesday May 6, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. will be held
in person and virtually.
Virtual Participation Link:
To listen to the meeting by phone or Zoom, please call the number below or click the link:
Telephone: 1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Toll Free: 888 475 4499 US Toll-free
Zoom: httos://us06web.zoom.us/i/81661307654
ROLL CALL
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
This is the place on the agenda where the public is invited to speak to the Board on any issue.
A. The public can participate in-person or submit written comments in advance.
Participants can submit written comments via mail, fax, or email. All written comments must be received
prior to 5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled meeting and must be 350 words or less.
Please mail written comments to:
City of Auburn
Attn: Alexa Bragg. Parks Administrative Assistant
25 W Main St
Auburn, WA 98001
Please fax written comments to:
Attn: Alexa Bragg. Parks Administrative Assistant
Fax number: 253-931-4005
Email written comments to: abragg@auburnwa.gov
If an individual requires accommodation to allow for remote oral comment because of a difficulty
attending a meeting of the governing body, the City requests notice of the need for accommodation by
5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled meeting. Participants can request accommodation to be able
to provide a remote oral comment by contacting the Parks, Arts and Recreation Department in person,
by phone (253) 931-3043, or by email (abragg@auburnwa.gov).
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Page 1 of 34
A. Approval of April 8, 2025 Minutes
ANNOUNCEMENTS, REPORTS, AND PRESENTATIONS
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Golf Course Facility Improvement Fee
ACTION ITEMS
A. Park Impact Fees
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
A. July is Parks & Recreation Month
B. Updating Park Board handbook - Draft prepared
ADJOURNMENT
Agendas and minutes are available to the public at the City Clerk's Office and on the City website
(http://www.auburnwa.gov).
Page 2 of 34
CITY OF
J\I.JBU1R.ts4 AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
WASHINGGTTON
Agenda Subject: Meeting Date:
Approval of April 8, 2025 Minutes May 6, 2025
Department: Attachments: Budget Impact:
Parks, Arts & Recreation Park Board Minutes
Administrative Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
Councilmember: Staff:
Page 3 of 34
Parks & Recreation Board
* Regular Meeting
CITY OF * April 8, 2025 - 5:30 PM
J_%'1JJ31JJs Classroom, Auburn Community and
Events Center
WASHINGTON
MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER
5:30pm
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
A. The Parks and Recreation Board Meeting scheduled for Tuesday April 8th, 2025 at 5:30
p.m. will be held in person and virtually.
Virtual Participation Link:
To listen to the meeting by phone or Zoom, please call the number below or click the link:
Telephone: +1 253 205 0468 US
Toll Free: 877 853 5257 US Toll-free
Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/i/81193299536?owd=4SV1 uHQFLEct3LZYrthnAkNaVnbzJ9.1
ROLL CALL
Board members: John Boatman, Mike Palko-Dean, Michael Hassen, Tiffany Lindsay,
Wayne Osborne, and Matt Jennings were in attendance.
Staff: Parks Director Julie Krueger, Park Planning Manager Thaniel Gouk,
Administrative Assistant Alexa Bragg
Excused: Cary Davidson
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS
Chair nominations:
Board member Matt Jennings was nominated for Chair. Matt was voted in as Chair of
Park Board
Vice-Chair Mike Palko-Dean was renominated for vice-Chair. Mike was voted in as
Vice-Chair of Park Board
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
A. The public can participate in-person or submit written comments in advance.
Participants can submit written comments via mail, fax, or email. All written comments
must be received prior to 5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled meeting and must be
350 words or less.
Page 4 of 34
Please mail written comments to:
City of Auburn
Attn: Alexa Bragg. Parks Administrative Assistant
25 W Main St
Auburn, WA 98001
Please fax written comments to:
Attn: Alexa Bragg. Parks Administrative Assistant
Fax number: 253-931-4005
Email written comments to: abragg@auburnwa.gov
If an individual requires accommodation to allow for remote oral comment because of a
difficulty attending a meeting of the governing body, the City requests notice of the need
for accommodation by 5:00 p.m. on the day before the scheduled meeting. Participants
can request accommodation to be able to provide a remote oral comment by contacting
the Parks, Arts and Recreation Department in person, by phone (253) 931-3043, or by
email (abragg@auburnwa.gov).
ANNOUNCEMENTS, REPORTS, AND PRESENTATIONS
A. Introduce new board member John Boatman
B. Introduce new Parks Department Director, Julie Krueger
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Current Park Grant Applications & Other Potential Funding
Park Planning Manager Thaniel submitted an $800,000 grant to King County to acquire
the Comic Book store. King County Parks Grant has $6 million in grant funds to
disperse.
There is another grant cycle that Park Planning Manager Thaniel states we want to turf
the Game Farm infield baseball fields. Director Julie Krueger states the parks
department is going to look for other pots of money to return to the golf course as their
funds were used for recreational fees.
B. Arbor Day Information - April 16
Park Planning Manager Thaniel discusses Arbor Day details that will be at the Mary
Olson Farm, planting a Thompkins King Apple Tree.
C. King County Parks Levy
Director Julie Krueger talks about the King County Parks Levy. They are 6-years in
length; the next one goes from 2026 to 2031. The regional policy committee made
changes to this upcoming levy that allow more money to come back to King County
cities, From 9% to potentially 17%. This money will be less restricted than ex. park
impact fees. There will be more opportunity to be flexible with this levy money. This KC
Levy will be on the August ballot of 2025. There are multiple levies on this ballot in the
coming months.
Page 5 of 34
D. Summer Camp Information
Director Julie Krueger speaks about the spring/summer recreation information. Julie
speaks about not mailing guides saves the department money, but there is a postcard
coming out. Julie speaks about summer camps and how they are doing with participant
numbers. The mobile recreation van is a free program that goes out during the summer
weeks and allows kids to play at no cost.
E. Park Impact Fees
Park Planning Manager Thaniel states the park impact fees were updated to a couple
of hundred dollars per residential unit per the PROS plan that we did over the last few
years. We have to update the park impact fees again this year per state law. Deadline
is June 2025.
ACTION ITEMS
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Park Planning Manager Thaniel states the manifold valve system was leaking on the
splash pad at the Les Gove building; we received a grant from RCO (recreation
conservation office) to replace the valve.
Board member Wayne Osborne states that he would like to continue to see bike trails
similar to Cedar Lanes pump track. Park Planning Manager Thaniel states we don't
have plans for another one, but we have acreage in the Lakeland Hills nature area to
potentially create trails there. Member John Boatman stated that it could be beneficial
to start with just a bike trail and potentially put a pump track there, or other places in the
city.
Matt Jennings states that he would like to see more investments in Lea Hill.
They're coupling the demolition with the infrastructure remodel (downtown, b st plaza).
Director Julie states that we are still in the design stage for the Theater, and are soon to
have bids coming forward. Public Works and their construction team are leading the
construction of the theater, with parks assisting with the design of the theater.
Member Matt Jennings was nominated as Chairperson
Member Mike Palko-Dean was nominated as vice-Chairperson.
NEW BUSINESS
Board member Wayne Osborne would like to be more involved in budget discussions
Board member Matt Jennings would also like to see our department goals for 2025 and
2026
ADJOURNMENT
Page 6 of 34
Adjourn at 6:19pm
APPROVED this day of 2024.
Thaniel Gouk, Director of Board Alexa Bragg, Administrative Assistant
Page 7 of 34
CITY OF
J\iJBIJIIF4 AGENDA BILL APPROVAL FORM
WASHINGTON
Agenda Subject: Meeting Date:
July is Parks & Recreation Month May 6, 2025
Department: Attachments: Budget Impact:
Parks, Arts & Recreation 2025 PRM Toolkit Covers &
Sponsor Pages
Administrative Recommendation:
Background for Motion:
Background Summary:
Councilmember: Staff:
Page 8 of 34
NRPA'S PARK AND
RECREATION MONTH
d I.
TOGETHER fp/
al
TOGETHER
2025 OUTREACH TOOLKIT
NRPA NATIONAL RECREATION
AND PARK ASSOCIATION
Presented by Sponsored by
USYA��✓ Bobcat.
Page 9 of 34
Contents
Toolkit Purpose 3
Park and Recreation Month 2025 Fact Sheet 4
NRPA 2025 Park and Recreation Month Key Messages and Research 5
Media Outreach — 'How To' 9
Template Media Advisory 12
Template 2025 Park and Recreation Month Press Release 13
2025 Park and Recreation Month Social Media Materials 14
2
Page 10 of 34
Toolkit Purpose
This toolkit is meant to make promoting and celebrating Park and Recreation Month in your
community a little easier! It is designed to help you generate positive media coverage and support for
your Park and Recreation Month activities, and ultimately, the essential work you do and the benefits
you bring to your community.
This toolkit includes template media materials, including:
• Media alerts for special events
• Press releases
• Fact sheets
• Key messages for use during interviews
• Social media posts
• A sample editorial article you can submit to local publications
Feel free to customize these materials with localized information, quotes and details that best meet
your needs.
When using social media, please make sure to tag NRPA in your Facebook. X, Instagram and Linkedln
posts and use the hashtag#BuildTogetherPlayTogether and #ParkAndRecMonth2025.
Don't forget, we want to see how you're celebrating too. Be sure to send us photos and videos from
your Park and Recreation Month activities and the creative ways you have used these materials.
If you have questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.
General Park and Recreation Month Toolkit Questions
Cara Myers
NRPA Marketing and Engagement Manager
cmvers@nrpa.org
Press Release or Media Questions
Danielle Doll
NRPA Senior Manager of Strategic Communications
ddoll@nrpa.org
Social Media Questions
Christina High
NRPA Social Media Manager
chigh@nrpa.org
We hope this toolkit helps you generate support for Park and Recreation Month and awareness for
the essential work you do in growing your community.
3
Page 11 of 34
Happy Park and Recreation Month!
Park and Recreation Month 2025 Fact Sheet
• This year's theme, "Build Together, Play Together" is a reminder of the contributions of more
than 160,000 full-time park and recreation professionals — along with hundreds of thousands of
part-time and seasonal workers and volunteers — who maintain our country's close-to-home
parks. Each July, we celebrate park and recreation professionals and how they improve the lives
of tens of millions of people, making a lasting impact in communities across the country. Park and
recreation programs are essential to community health and well-being, and help cultivate lifelong
friendships, memories and family bonds that people hold dear decades later.
• During Park and Recreation Month, NRPA encourages park and recreation agencies to showcase
the ways in which they contribute to strong, vibrant and resilient communities all year and how
community members can support their local agency's work.
• This July marks NRPA's 40th annual Park and Recreation Month! Let's unite and share the many
reasons why local park and recreation agencies are truly places to build and play together.
• In addition to encouraging community members to visit local parks or recreation areas during
July, you can get involved in Park and Recreation Month by:
o Officially proclaiming July as Park and Recreation Month in your community using the
proclamation template
o Using the official logo and the hashtag#BuildTogetherPlayTogether on social media
o Sharing stories from your community members about how parks and recreation benefits
their lives on social media with the hashtag#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
o Participating in Park and Recreation Professionals Day on July 18, 2025
o Downloading the official Park and Recreation Month poster and hanging it up, taking
pictures with it or sharing copies with your community
o Submitting a photo for the Parks & Recreation magazine cover contest
• Learn more about Park and Recreation Month and find additional resources at nrpa.org/July.
• Join the conversation on Facebook, X, Instagram and Linkedln with #BuildTogetherPlayTogether.
4
Page 12 of 34
NRPA 2025 Park and Recreation Month Key Messages
General Key Messages
• The services that park and recreation professionals provide are essential to building thriving
communities. Together, we're building and maintaining accessible, inclusive and sustainable
parks and recreation programs that deliver powerful benefits to our communities.
• For 40 years, the United States has celebrated Park and Recreation Month in July to recognize
the more than 160,000 full-time park and recreation professionals — along with hundreds of
thousands of part-time and seasonal workers and volunteers — who maintain our country's
local, state and community parks.
• Through efforts by NRPA, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an official resolution for
Park and Recreation Month in 2009, and introduced the resolution in 2017 and 2018.
• Park and recreation agencies nationwide are recognizing the month with summer programs,
events, contests, commemorations and celebrations.
2025 Key Messages
• We're celebrating Park and Recreation Month this July by highlighting how park and
recreation professionals help create thriving communities when we Build Together, Play
Together.
• What's your community building toward? NRPA encourages all people to share how their local
park and recreation agency is building parks or programs that improve their lives.
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether.
• Share how parks and recreation in your community creates opportunities for you and your
friends, family and neighbors to play together. #BuildTogetherPlayTogether.
Graphics Guidance
The Park and Recreation Month graphics provided in this toolkit must be printed or produced exactly
as shown and maintain the original aspect ratio and clarity. Graphics should not be altered in any
way.
• Do not stretch or distort.
• Do not change the colors.
• Do not place over a complex image, pattern or design.
• Don't pull graphics from a search engine; use the provided graphic files.
Supporting Key Research
Messages promoting support for parks and recreation:
5
Page 13 of 34
• According to NRPA's 2024 Engagement With Parks Report, people place a high value on the
programs and services that park and recreation agencies deliver to their local communities
every day and strongly support their mission.
o More than 276 million people in the United States visited a local park or recreation
facility at least once during the past year.
o More than seven in 10 U.S. residents have at least one local park, playground, open
space or recreation center within walking distance of their homes.
o In the United States, 81 percent of adults seek high-quality parks and recreation when
choosing a place to live.
• Ninety-one percent of people agree that parks and recreation is an important service
provided by their local government
• Ninety-three percent of U.S. adults say their mental health is improved by services offered by
local park and recreation professionals and agencies. However, we estimate that as many as
100 million people — 30 percent of the U.S. population — lack access to the lifesaving and
life-enhancing benefits parks and recreation provides.
TIP:To show how your community values what your park and recreation agency offers, use some of
your own data and research,such as the number of visitors to your parks or an increase in local
youth sports participation.
Messages promoting how parks and recreation supports health and well-being:
• Local park and recreation agencies are uniquely suited to serve as Community Wellness Hubs,
connecting all members of the community to programs and services that advance health
equity, improve health outcomes and enhance quality of life.
• Living close to parks and other recreation facilities is consistently related to higher physical
activity levels for both adults and youth. Moreover, parks provide a connection to nature,
which studies demonstrate relieves stress, strengthens interpersonal relationships and
improves mental health.
• Parks and recreation encourages physical activity by providing space for popular sports, hiking
trails, swimming pools and many other activities designed to promote active lifestyles.
• In the United States, 92 percent of adults say they experience a positive mental health boost
after spending time at their local parks.
• Parks and recreation is a leading provider of healthy meals, nutrition services and education.
6
Page 14 of 34
• Local park and recreation agencies provide spaces, programs and services that are essential to
a community's vitality. They also serve as key factors in advancing health equity, improving
individual and community-level health outcomes, and enhancing quality of life.
• In the United States, 86 percent of adults believe it is helpful that they and their families have
access to the outdoors and nature during stressful times.
• Park and recreation professionals play a key role in ensuring all community members have
equitable opportunities to get active.
Messages promoting how parks and recreation builds stronger communities through environmental
resilience:
• Local park and recreation agencies play a vital role in the protection of our environment
through green infrastructure, maintenance of public lands, preservation of wildlife habitats
and more.
• In addition to helping connect people to nature, local parks create essential environmental
stewards who advocate for and protect our most precious public resources — our land, water,
trees, open spaces and wildlife.
• Local park and recreation agencies collectively manage more than 11 million acres of open
space across the United States.
• Climate-ready parks provide proven, cost-effective and sustainable environmental solutions.
• Parks lower ground temperatures with tree canopy, clean water, reduce flooding and
contribute to healthier air.
• Parks reduce the impact of large storms and flooding by serving as sponges that soak up
runoff from nearby paved surfaces during rain events. This in turn prevents flooding and
decreases property damage. Well-designed parks also reduce water usage by recycling and
storing this water for use during times of low precipitation.
• Evidence not only shows that parks are cooler than their surrounding cities, but also that
parks contribute to overall urban cooling — parks make our cities more comfortable in the
summer.
• According to NRPA's Sustainabilitv in Parks and Recreation report, park and recreation leaders
place high importance on strategies that protect the natural habitat, embrace park
infrastructure for stormwater management and lower agency water usage.
7
Page 15 of 34
• The most common park and recreation agency sustainability actions are planting trees;
transitioning to native and climate-adaptable plants and trees; and updating and retrofitting
buildings and other park infrastructure.
Messages promoting how parks and recreation contributes to economic opportunity:
• According to NRPA's The Economic Impact of Local Parks report, local public park and
recreation agencies in the United States generated nearly $201 billion in economic activity
and supported almost 1.1 million jobs that boosted labor income by more than $63 billion
from their operations and capital spending in 2021.
• The outdoor recreation economy, which includes local parks and recreation, accounted for
$639 billion of the 2023 U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP), or 2.3 percent of the U.S.
economy.
• Ninety-two percent of U.S. adults agree it is important for youth and young adults to have
access to employment opportunities. Park and recreation departments across the country are
among the biggest employers of youth.
• Local park and recreation agencies employed more than 326,000 full-time and part-time
employees in 2021, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. That translates to almost $41 billion
of operations spending by the nation's more than 10,000 local park and recreation agencies.
*Be sure to explore more of these research-based statements that showcase the fundamental role of
parks and recreation.
8
Page 16 of 34
Media Outreach — 'How To'
The following are general guidelines for conducting media outreach for special events you may be
hosting in July and in general for Park and Recreation Month.
Leveraging the Media Advisory/Press Release
To announce your involvement in Park and Recreation Month and what activities or programs you are
offering throughout July, customize the media advisory and press release templates and distribute
them to appropriate reporters, bloggers and broadcast media in your local area.
May: Get prepped and find your reporters!
• Search online for the "news desk" emails and/or submission guidelines of your local TV
stations and radio stations.
• Search for contact information for reporters and publications in your local area that cover
topics related to parks, the outdoors and community news/events. It is a good idea to review
the stories the reporter writes to get a feel for what they are most interested in so you can
tailor your outreach to meet their interests. Most reporters prefer email.
• Search online or on social media for bloggers/influencers in your area. They can help share
your news and events to help gain broader visibility.
June: Fine-tune your outreach pieces and release
• Once you have your outreach list together, prepare outreach pieces. These could include
email or phone talking points, a media advisory or a press release.
o Use the key messages in this toolkit to create your talking points. Pick out a few
compelling messages to tell the reporter, blogger or influencer why Park and
Recreation Month is important! Keep these on hand for outreach and for interviews,
too.
• Create an advisory pre-event to help draw people to your event! This should include
information about the event (what the event is, when it is taking place, where it is happening
and how people can attend — is pre-registration required? Is there a cost?). Be sure to
provide as many details as possible! Send the media advisory at least one week in advance of
your event.
• Customize the press release template with the appropriate information, as marked with
brackets and yellow highlights, EX: [NAME].
9
Page 17 of 34
End of June/Beginning of July: Distribute your press release
• Send the press release out at the end of June or beginning of July to journalists and reporters,
and to TV/radio stations approximately three to five days before an event you want them to
attend.
• You can distribute your press release on any newswires you subscribe to or use regularly. This
will give you added visibility in newsrooms and with online media.
• In addition to wire distribution, reach out directly via email to journalists and bloggers. Insert
your pitch and paste the text of the press release into the email. Feel free to ask if they have a
photographer on staff who might want to snap some photos, too.
• Put an engaging tag line or sentence in the "subject" line of the email to entice reporters.
• Once you send your release, follow up with a phone call to reporters. Be sure to have your
talking points ready and be prepared to answer questions about why your event or story is a
"must see/cover."
July: After the Event
• Consider sending a post-event press release to generate coverage after the occasion. It is a good
idea to send this immediately following the event or the next morning. Oftentimes, this means
drafting most of the release in advance and adding a few pertinent details afterward.
• Reach back out to the reporters who you previously contacted. If you can, offer footage from
the event or high-resolution photos (300 DPI minimum).
Tips and Tactics
• Remember that timeliness are a big factor in press coverage. Give them enough time to plan
to attend and send a reminder as the date gets closer.
• Try to keep the message brief. One page is best — do not exceed two.
• Don't forget to add complete contact information. If a reporter is interested, they may wish
to email or call you with questions or requests for clarification.
• Write using short paragraphs and sentences, and in the third person — don't refer to yourself
as "I" or "we," except in a direct quote.
• Avoid testimonials or other promotional language. A press release is news; not advertising.
Try to write it in the same style as the outlet you're pitching, so your story seamlessly fits into
their content.
10
Page 18 of 34
• Don't be discouraged if you do not receive interest, or if a reporter doesn't make it to your
event. Reporters receive hundreds of press releases every day and cover news based on
many factors (timeliness, the number of current events taking place, space, editor approval,
capacity, etc.). It's never personal.
• If a reporter does email or call with interest, be sure to respond promptly.
Let us know if your Park and Recreation Month event is covered in the news and send us links of
online coverage!
11
Page 19 of 34
Template Media Advisory
[GROUP LOGO/LETTERHEAD]
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact:
[Contact Name]
[Agency Name]
[Phone]
[Email]
[Agency Name] to Kick Off Park and Recreation Month at [Park/Facility/Event Name]
[Add a second-line description for a special appearance by a VIP or specific highlight.]
WHO/WHAT: [Name of major public officials or celebrities who are participating]
[List and briefly describe any programs or activities that will take place.]
WHEN: [Date/Time]
[Be sure to mention individual start times for notable speakers/happenings.]
WHERE: [Location/Address - Provide parking information, if relevant.]
WHY: For 40 years, the nation has celebrated Park and Recreation Month in July to promote building
strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. This month is
dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the more than 160,000 full-time park and recreation
professionals — along with hundreds of thousands of part-time and seasonal workers and volunteers
— who maintain our country's local, state and community parks.
This year's theme — "Build Together, Play Together" — celebrates how parks and recreation
professionals help create thriving communities.
For more information, visit nroa.org/iuly or search Twitter and Instagram using
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
EDITOR'S NOTE: [Mention any opportunities for interesting visuals and tours. Provide contact
information.]
###
12
Page 20 of 34
Template 2025 Park and Recreation Month Pre-Event Press Release
[GROUP LOGO/LETTERHEAD]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
[Contact Name]
[Agency Name]
[Phone]
[Email]
This July, Celebrate 'Build Together, Play Together at [Agency Name]
Month-long celebration highlights the impact of parks and recreation
[CITY, STATE ABRV] — [DATE] —This July,join [Agency Name] for Park and Recreation Month, as we
celebrate how [Your City/Town Name] is stronger, more vibrant and more resilient because of parks
and recreation. A variety of activities are planned for residents of all ages and abilities — including
[list top activities/events].
[Agency Name] is celebrating Park and Recreation Month, an initiative of the National Recreation and
Park Association (NRPA), by inviting our community to share their experiences, memories and stories
about what parks and recreation mean to them. With everything from [list examples of offerings],
there are plenty of ways that you can celebrate with us, as well!
[QUOTE from Agency leadership, discussing ways you impact your community through health and
well-being, equity, conservation, etc., and tie to the celebration.]
NRPA and [Agency Name] encourage everyone who supports parks and recreation to post why their
local park and recreation professionals are important to them on social media with
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether.
To learn more about Park and Recreation Month, visit [Add local website information] and
nroa.org/July.
[Agency boilerplate/ "about" information]
About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization
dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and
recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and
championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive
change in service of equity, climate-readiness, and overall health and well-being. For more
information, visit nroa.org. For digital access to NRPA's flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit
r arksandrecreation.org.
13
Page 21 of 34
2025 Park and Recreation Month Social Media Materials
Sample Social Media Posts
We encourage you to use these sample messages to help generate awareness among your friends
and followers. Customize these posts for Park and Recreation Month and feel free to develop others
on your own to best fit your needs!
Tag NRPA in your posts,too:
• Facebook: @National Recreation and Park Association
• X: @NRPA news
• Instagram: @nrpa
• Linkedln: @National Recreation and Park Association
Official 2025 Park and Recreation Month Hashtags:
• #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
• #ParkandRecMonth
• #ParkandRecMonth2025
Weekly Topic Suggestions:
One way you can organize your social media posts for the month is by focusing on a different topic
each week, which not only helps you manage your content, but also reinforces key messages:
• Week 1 (June 29-July 5): Kick off Park and Recreation Month
• Week 2 (July 6-12): Where are we building? Start conversations around nature
connectedness, environmental awareness and resilience.
• Week 3 (July 13-191: Build Together: Highlight the importance of diversity, equity, and
inclusion in the process of building resources and spaces for everyone in your community.
• Week 4 (July 20-261: Play Together: Celebrate the programs, spaces, and resources you have
built so that everyone in your community can experience the benefits of parks and recreation.
• Week 5 (July 27-August 2):Together Today,Tomorrow and Beyond: Wrap up and reflect on
the month. How is your community growing due to parks and recreation?
There are also general social media posts on the following pages that you can customize and use
throughout the entire month of July, as well as suggestions for daily themes.
14
Page 22 of 34
June 29-July 5: Kick off Park and Recreation Month
Agency sample posts for Facebook/Linkedln:
• This July we are celebrating the 40th year of Park and Recreation Month! Join us as we
highlight the people, spaces and programs at (insert park/facility/agency name) that have
built a beautiful and strong (insert town/city/community name). @National Recreation and
Park Association #BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth #ParkandRecMonth2025
(insert staff photos)
• Join us and @National Recreation and Park Association as we celebrate
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether during Park and Recreation Month! What's your favorite way to
play together? #ParkandRecMonth #ParkandRecMonth2025 (share the Park and Recreation
Month poster image or graphics)
• Swing by (insert event location event and time) to help us celebrate Park and Recreation
Month and create a new park memory! @National Recreation and Park Association
#ParkandRecMonth #ParkandRecMonth2025 #BuildTogetherPlayTogether(insert a link to the
event details on your website)
Agency sample posts for X/Twitter:
• This July we are celebrating the 40th year of Park and Recreation Month! Join us as we
highlight the people, spaces and programs at (insert park/facility/agency name) that have
built a beautiful and strong (insert town/city/community name). Join us and @NRPA_news as
we celebrate #ParkandRecMonth2025! (insert Park and Recreation Month logo or graphics)
• Swing by (insert event location event and time) to help us celebrate Park and Recreation
Month and create a new park memory! @NRPA_news #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#Parkand RecMonth2025
Agency sample posts for lnstagram:
• Get ready for another amazing Park and Recreation Month! This July, we are celebrating the
people, spaces and programs at (insert park/facility/agency name) that have built a beautiful
and strong (insert town/city/community name). Join us and @nrpa in celebrating the 40th
year of Park and Recreation Month! #BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth
#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert staff photos or Park and Recreation Month graphics or both)
• Let's play together this Park and Recreation Month! Create a new park memory at (insert
event location event and time) and help us celebrate. @nrpa #ParkandRecMonth
#ParkandRecMonth2025 #BuildTogetherPlayTogether (insert a photo of the event details)
15
Page 23 of 34
July 6-12: Where are we building? Start conversations around nature connectedness,
environmental awareness and resilience.
Agency sample posts for Facebook/Linkedln:
• (Insert agency name)'s parks can be used to build love and appreciation of nature. With
programs and activities like (insert environmental programs/activity/event), we are
connecting more community members with the outdoors every day! @National Recreation
and Park Association #BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParksandRecMonth2025 (Insert photo of
park or environmental activity)
• Our parks are home to many flora and fauna that provide the foundation for a healthy
ecosystem. When you visit (insert park name), what plants or critters are you always excited
to see? @National Recreation and Park Association #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#ParkandRecMonth2025 #ParkandRecMonth (Insert photo of wildlife/plants)
• To all who have supported (insert park/facility/agency name)'s environmental initiatives,
thank you! We hope to continue to build spaces and programs that benefit our natural
environment and the (insert community name) community. Explore our nature programs and
sustainability work: (LINK to resources/programs). @National Recreation and Park Association
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (Insert photo of environmental activity)
Agency sample posts for X:
• Our parks are home to many flora and fauna that provide the foundation for a healthy
ecosystem. Explore the work (insert park/facility/agency name) does to support our
environment: (LINK to resources/programs) #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#ParkandRecMonth2025 #ParkandRecMonth @NRPA_News (Insert photo of wildlife/plants)
• This week, explore your place in nature in our little pocket of wilderness, (insert park name).
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth #ParkandRecMonth2025 @NRPA_News
(insert photos of park)
• (Insert park/facility/agency name) works hard to bring engaging and thoughtful opportunities
for all community members to experience the power of parks and nature. Explore some of our
resources and events: (Link to programs/events/activities/resources)
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether @NRPA_News
Agency sample posts for Instagram:
• (Insert agency name)'s parks can be used to build love and appreciation of nature. With
programs and activities like (insert environmental programs/activity/event), we are
connecting more community members with the outdoors every day! @nrpa
16
Page 24 of 34
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParksandRecMonth2025 (Insert photo of park or environmental
activity)
• Our parks are home to many critters and plants that provide the foundation for a healthy
ecosystem. Visit (insert park name) to explore some of the local ecology! @nrpa
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 #ParkandRecMonth (Insert photo of
wildlife/plants)
To all who have supported (insert park/facility/agency name)'s environmental initiatives,
thank you! We hope to continue to build spaces and programs that benefit our natural
environment and the (insert community name) community. Explore our nature programs and
sustainability work: (LINK to resources/programs). @nrpa #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#ParkandRecMonth2025 (Insert photo of environmental activity)
July 13-19: Build Together: Highlight the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in the process
of building resources and spaces for everyone in your community.
Agency sample posts for Facebook/Linkedln:
• At (insert park/facility/agency name), we offer diverse and inclusive programming, allowing
recreation opportunities for all! We always appreciate community input, because to
#PlayTogether we must#BuildTogether. @National Recreation and Park Association
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo of
event/program/activity)
• When people see themselves — their cultures, languages and identities — reflected in a park,
they come back. Building connections that create a true sense of belonging and community is
what (Insert park/facility/agency name) is about. @National Recreation and Park Association
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo from activity/event in
your parks)
• Our staff is constantly working hard to build spaces where everyone can have safe and
memorable experiences at (insert park/facility/agency name)! @National Recreation and Park
Association #BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert staff photo from
activity/event in your parks)
Agency sample posts for X:
• At (insert park/facility/agency name) we offer diverse and inclusive programming, allowing
recreation opportunities for all! We always appreciate community input, because to
#PlayTogether we must#BuildTogether. @NRPA_news#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert link of event/program/activity/community input form)
17
Page 25 of 34
• When people see themselves — their cultures, languages and identities — reflected in a park,
they come back. Building connections that create a true sense of belonging and community is
what (Insert park/facility/agency name) is about. @NRPA_News#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
(insert photo of event/program/activity)
• Our staff is constantly working hard to build spaces where everyone can have safe and
memorable experiences at (insert park/facility/agency name)! @NRPA_News
#WhereYouBelong#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert staff photo
from activity/event in your parks)
Agency sample posts for Instagram:
• At (insert park/facility/agency name), we offer diverse and inclusive programming, allowing
recreation opportunities for all! We always appreciate community input, because to
#PlayTogether we must#BuildTogether. @nrpa #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo of event/program/activity)
• When people see themselves — their cultures, languages and identities — reflected in a park,
they come back. Building connections that create a true sense of belonging and community is
what (Insert park/facility/agency name) is about. @nrpa #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo from activity/event in your parks)
• Our staff is constantly working hard to build spaces where everyone can have safe and
memorable experiences at (insert park/facility/agency name)! @nrpa
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert staff photo from activity/event
in your parks)
Friday, July 18: Park and Recreation Professionals Day
Share images of staff and volunteers!
Agency sample post for Facebook/Linkedln:
• Today is Park and Recreation Professionals Day! HUGE thank you to our incredible team who
helps our community be stronger, more vibrant and further resilient through the power of
parks and recreation. Swing by [Insert event/celebration or park/recreation facility name] to
help us celebrate! @National Recreation and Park Association #NRPAParkAndRecDay
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
Individual sample post for Facebook/Linkedln (yes, toot your own horn!):
• On this Park and Recreation Professionals Day, I am so proud to be part of the [Insert
agency/department name] team! Our community is stronger, more vibrant and further
resilient because of our work. Swing by [Insert event/celebration or park/recreation facility
18
Page 26 of 34
name] to help us celebrate! @National Recreation and Park Association
#NRPAParkAndRecDay#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
Agency sample post for Instagram:
• Did you know there are more than 160,000 full-time professionals and hundreds of thousands
of part-time and seasonal workers in the field of parks and recreation? (Not to mention the
stellar volunteers!) On this Park and Recreation Professionals day we are so proud of our team
of [X] who help make up this number and the powerful impact of local parks and recreation!
Swing by [Insert event/celebration or park/recreation facility name] to help us celebrate!
@nrpa #NRPAParkAndRecDay#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
Individual sample post for Instagram (yes, toot your own horn!):
• On this Park and Recreation Professionals Day, I am so proud to be part of the [Insert either
"160,000 full-time professionals" or "hundreds of thousands of part-time and seasonal
workers"] in the field of parks and recreation! If you are interested in celebrating the work of
the [Insert agency/department name] team join us at [Insert event/celebration or
park/recreation facility name] to say hi! @nrpa #NRPAParkAndRecDay
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
Agency sample post for X:
• Today is Park and Recreation Professionals Day! HUGE thank you to our incredible team who
helps bring the power of parks and recreation to the [town/city name] community. Swing by
[Insert event/celebration or park/recreation facility name] to help us celebrate!
@NRPA_News #NRPAParkAndRecDay#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
Individual sample post forX(yes, toot your own horn!):
• On this Park and Recreation Professionals Day, I am so proud to be part of the [Insert
agency/department name] team! It is always a treat to see the smiling faces that fill our
spaces and programs. Swing by [Insert event/celebration or park/recreation facility name] to
help us celebrate! @NRPA_News#NRPAParkAndRecDay#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
July 20-26: Play Together: Celebrate the programs, spaces and resources you have built so that
everyone in your community can experience the benefits of parks and recreation.
Agency sample posts for Facebook/Linkedln:
• At (insert park/facility/agency name), we bring neighbors together through community
classes, events and programs. How do you #PlayTogether at (insert park/facility/agency
name)? @National Recreation and Park Association #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo of event/program/activity)
• More than 200 million people across the United States live within a 10-minute walk of at least
one park or trail. (Insert park/facility/agency name) is pleased to build spaces where everyone
19
Page 27 of 34
in our community can play! @National Recreation and Park Association
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo from activity/event in
your parks)
• Join us for some play time at (Insert park/facility/agency name)! Explore one of our many
programs or just stroll our trails while connecting with community members! @National
Recreation and Park Association #BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert
photo from activity/event in your parks)
Agency sample posts for X:
• What's the best way to play?Together and at our parks and recreation centers! Come take a
breath of fresh air at (insert park/facility/agency name) as we celebrate
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether this#ParkAndRecMonth with @NRPA_news!
• Our staff manage a wide variety of facilities and features. (Insert park/facility/agency name) is
pleased to offer an array of ways for our community members to#PlayTogether!
@NRPA_News #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
• Join us for some play time at (Insert park/facility/agency name)! Explore one of our many
programs or just stroll our trails while connecting with community members! @NRPA_News
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether
Agency sample posts for Instagram:
• The offerings at (insert park/facility/agency name) have not only allowed for enjoyable
movement, but also have brought neighbors together through community classes, events, and
programs. How do you #PlayTogether at (insert park/facility/agency name)? @nrpa
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo of
event/program/activity)
• More than 200 million people across the United States live within a 10-minute walk of at least
one park or trail. (Insert park/facility/agency name) is pleased to build spaces where everyone
in our community can play! @nrpa #BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025
(insert photo from activity/event in your parks)
• Join us for some play-time at (Insert park/facility/agency name)! Explore one of our many
programs or just stroll our trails while connecting with community members! @nrpa
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkandRecMonth2025 (insert photo from activity/event in
your parks)
20
Page 28 of 34
July 27-August 2:Together Today,Tomorrow and Beyond: Wrap up and reflect on the month. How
is your community growing due to parks and recreation?
Agency sample posts for Facebook/Linkedln:
• Since the foundation of(insert park/facility/agency name) in (X year), we have provided the
(insert town/city) community with safe, inclusive places to play and learn! We loved
celebrating our work this#ParkAndRecMonth. Follow along to see how we continue to
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether @National Recreation and Park Association (Insert first photo of
park/facility and recent photo)
• (Insert park/facility/agency name) is a resource for all community members! Share your park
and recreation stories with us and @National Recreation and Park Association as we celebrate
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether (insert photos of community/city/town/parks/trails/rec centers)
Agency sample posts for X:
• With (number of parks/facilities) and diverse program offerings, (insert park/facility/agency
name) has truly built space for everyone to play together! @NRPA_news
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether (Insert first photo of park/facility and recent photo)
• (Insert park/facility/agency name) is a resource for all community members! Share your park
and recreation stories with us and @NRPA_News as we celebrate
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether (Insert photos of community/city/town/parks/trails/recreation
centers)
Agency sample posts for Instagram:
• Since the foundation of(insert park/facility/agency name) in (X year), we have provided the
(insert town/city) community with safe, inclusive places to play and learn! We loved
celebrating our work this#ParkAndRecMonth, follow along to see how we continue to
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether @nrpa #ParkAndRecMonth2025 (Insert first photo of
park/facility and recent photo)
• Looking forward to classes, events and programs where we can connect with the community
is one of our favorite perks of the job! With (number of parks/facilities) and diverse program
offerings, (insert park/facility/agency name) has truly built space for everyone to play
together! @nrpa #BuildTogetherPlayTogether (insert photos of
community/city/town/parks/trails/recreation centers)
21
Page 29 of 34
Ideas for celebrating activities, events, programs and people:
• If you haven't already, repost, retweet and share your community members' posts from any
of your parks, recreation centers or special events.
• Across all social media platforms, send out a big "THANK YOU" to everyone who has
supported you during Park and Recreation Month and throughout the year.
• Share how your agency is building with and for the community so that everyone feels
welcome to play. Think about the seven dimensions of well-being in your park and recreation
system (cultural, economic, emotional, environmental, intellectual, physical and social).
• Have you used an NRPA resource in the past year? Attended our annual conference?
Participated in an education program or school? Received grant funding and resources?
Engaged with NRPA advocacy work? Brag about it on social media! We love hearing your
experiences — especially the collaborative, peer learning that helps us to 'Build Together, Play
Together.'
Throughout July
Agency sample posts for Facebook/Linkedln:
• This July celebrates the 40th year of Park and Recreation Month! At (insert
park/facility/agency name), we 'Build Together, Play Together' #BuildTogetherPlayTogether
@National Recreation and Park Association (insert staff photos)
• Stop by (insert event location event and time) to help us celebrate Park and Recreation Month
and create a new park memory! @National Recreation and Park Association
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether (insert a link to the event details on your website)
Personal sample posts for Facebook/Linkedln:
• It's Park and Recreation Month and this July, as a (job title) at (agency name), I'm happy to
help (insert park/facility/agency name) build spaces where everyone in (insert
city/town/state) can play! #BuildTogetherPlayTogether#ParkAndRecMonth2025 @National
Recreation and Park Association
Agency sample posts for X:
• Join us and @NRPA_news to celebrate #BuildTogetherPlayTogether during Park and
Recreation Month! (share toolkit poster image)
• Stop by (insert event location event and time) to help us celebrate Park and Recreation Month
and create a new park memory! @NRPA_News #BuildTogetherPlayTogether (Insert a link to
the event details on your website)
22
Page 30 of 34
Personal sample posts for X:
• Happy Park and Rec Month! As a (job title) at (agency name), I'm happy to help (Insert
park/facility/agency name) build spaces where everyone in (insert city/town/state) can play!
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether @NRPA_news
Agency sample posts for Instagram:
• This July celebrates the 40th year of Park and Recreation Month! At (insert park/facility/agency
name) we 'Build Together, Play Together' #BuildTogetherPlayTogether @nrpa (insert staff
photos)
• Stop by (insert event location event and time) as we celebrate @nrpa's
#ParkandRecMonth2025! #BuildTogetherPlayTogether (insert photo of event, promo flyer,
etc.)
Personal sample posts for Instagram:
• Happy Park and Rec Month! As a (job title) at (agency name), I'm happy to help (Insert
park/facility/agency name) build spaces where everyone in (insert city/town/state) can play!
@nrpa #BuildTogetherPlayTogether (share photo of yourself at work)
• July is Park and Recreation Month, and as a park and recreation professional, I'm excited to
amplify the sense of community and belonging that is built through parks and recreation!
@nrpa #BuildTogetherPlayTogether (Share photo of yourself and or colleagues at work)
Sample social media themes for each day of the week
You can use these themes as social media prompts for each day of the week (tag NRPA and include
#BuildTogetherPlayTogether, along with the hashtags below):
• #MondayMingle— Park and recreation agencies provides spaces for community connection.
Share some programs, events and activities that have brought your neighbors together!
• #TrailsTuesday— Does everyone in your community know how to get to your parks or trails?
Share locations where your followers can visit!
• #WellnessWednesday— Highlight the programs, activities and spaces that foster belonging in
your community. Turn to the Seven Dimensions of Well-Being for ideas!
• #ThrowbackThursday or#TBT— Use throwback photos or before-and-after photos of
pollinator gardens, playground renovations, conservation areas, accessible equipment, and all
the ways that your community has grown over the years.
23
Page 31 of 34
• #FloraFaunaFriday—Share captivating images of the ecology in your local parks! These spaces
are where we belong, and where you'll find the critters that build healthy ecosystems for all!
• #StaffSaturday-Want a dedicated day to highlight staff? Use Saturday to give your team a
shoutout! Especially those who work weekends to keep our parks open, safe and fun!
• #SundayFunday—Take some fun selfies with your friends and family doing the activities you
love in your local parks!
General Social Media Guidance
• Polish your language. Use good punctuation and spelling so that your messages will be easily
understood. When dealing with character limits, try to rephrase your post versus just
shortening and abbreviating words.
• Be consistent with your posts. Decide how often you plan to post and try to be consistent.
Maybe you plan one Instagram post a day and three Facebook posts a week. You can increase
your postings over time;just try to avoid posting inconsistently.
• Be inclusive, be diverse and be positive. Use positive language and avoid any expressions that
express or imply ideas that are sexist, racist or otherwise biased, prejudiced or discriminating.
• Use photos and videos. Photos and videos catch people's attention, but make sure to mix it
up and post different types of photos, people, activities and events to keep your followers'
interest. Free web and mobile apps like Canva can help you create stylized photos/graphics
that you can use, too.
• Think of what you want your audience to do and shape your message around that. A single
tweet inviting people to your parks or recreation centers may not do the trick — give them
specific things they can do to let them know why they should visit. Instead of just saying,
"Come to X park," say, "Here are 5 things you and your family can do at X park."And, most
importantly, always remember to share stories from your community members!
24
Page 32 of 34
Thank you to our 2025
Park and Recreation Month sponsors
Presenting Sponsor:
Ul SrAiiii010)
The U.S. Tennis Association (USIA) is the national governing body for the sport of tennis and the leader in
promoting and developing the sport's growth on every level in the United States, from local communities
to the crown jewel of the professional game: the US Open. The USTA is a progressive and diverse not-for-
profit organization whose volunteers, professional staff and financial resources support a single mission:
to promote and develop the growth of tennis. The USTA is organized into 17 geographical sections, with
more than 680,000 individual members and more than 7,000 organization members, thousands of
volunteers, and a professional staff, all dedicated to growing the game.
Champion Sponsor:
--"7" if • Bobcat ®
Since 1958, Bobcat Company has been empowering people to accomplish more. As a leading global
manufacturer of compact equipment, Bobcat has a proud legacy of innovation and a reputation based on
delivering smart solutions to customers' toughest challenges. Backed by the support of a worldwide
network of independent dealers and distributors, Bobcat offers an extensive line of compact equipment,
including loaders, excavators, compact tractors, utility products, telehandlers, mowers, attachments,
implements, parts, and services. Headquartered in West Fargo, North Dakota, Bobcat continues to lead
the industry, all while helping people succeed and build stronger communities and a better tomorrow.
Page 33 of 34
Thank you for helping us
celebrate and spread the
word about Park and
Recreation Month!
ogetherPlayTogether
NRPA NATIONAL RECREATION
Q AND PARK ASSOCIATION