Overview
ARPA has over 200 members, including professionals, students, citizens, and commercial vendors who are all working to improve park and recreational opportunities in Arkansas.
Members are employed with municipal, state, and federal governments, as well as nonprofit and private agencies. ARPA focuses on public awareness of parks, recreation, and leisure services.
ARPA is a state affiliate of the National Recreation and Parks Association.
Why Join ARPA?
Since 1964, the mission of ARPA has been to serve its members by promoting the importance of recreation and parks in our communities. ARPA acts as an advocate for the parks and recreation profession and provides the strongest networking structure in Arkansas.
As a member of ARPA, you’ll join park, recreation, and leisure services professionals throughout Arkansas. You’ll enjoy the support of others dedicated to the advancement of the profession, benefit from their experiences, and share information about the latest trends in parks and recreation.
Membership means getting the information you need, the networking you want, and the educational opportunities you require to advance your career.
Who Should Join?
Park and recreation professionals in:
- Government agencies, including municipal, county, state, and federal agencies such as N.P.S., C.O.E., and U.S.F.S.
- Nonprofit agencies, including YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts
- For-profit agencies, including recreation retail shops, recreational rental shops, and vendors who support the park and recreation field
- Concerned citizens
- Mayors
- Judges
- Advisory Board Members
- Students studying parks, recreation, leisure, and tourism
- Others interested in the park and recreation field
Member Benefits
Enjoy the many benefits members receive:
- Technical assistance on current issues, with referrals to other agencies and ARPA members when materials are not available
- Education and training programs, including member registration discounts and continuing education unit opportunities
- Opportunities to participate in committees and taskforces addressing issues
- Ongoing networking with peers for sharing ideas and opportunities
- Recognition for outstanding professionals, students, facilities, programs, and agencies through the annual Awards Program and Scholarship Foundation
