December 2019 - Parks & Recreation - 54

N R PA U P DAT E

NRPA Award Applications Open in January

etting an award not only
is a validation of the great
work you do, but also can
be used to show decision makers
and policymakers the intrinsic
value of what
you do. Starting
January 6, 2020,
NRPA will begin
accepting
applications for
the 2020 Awards
Program,
and
there are several
opportunities to
choose from:
The National Gold Medal
Award Program (presented by the
American Academy for Park and
Recreation Administration in partnership with NRPA) honors agencies nationwide that demonstrate

excellence in long-range planning,
resource management and innovative approaches to delivering superb park and recreation services.
The NRPA Innovation Awards
recognize the latest advancements
in the field, showcasing the inspiring park and recreation agencies
that have improved and empowered their communities through
innovative practices in park design,
health and wellness, conservation
and social equity.
The NRPA Spotlight Awards
are presented to individuals, including park and recreation professionals, volunteers, engaged
community members and park
advocates. These awards honor the
professional and personal efforts in
the field of parks and recreation.
NRPA Scholarships and Fellowships recipients can attend and

explore the operation of the field
at the NRPA Annual Conference,
where they develop professional
contacts with leadership and members from around the country. They
receive complimentary NRPA Annual Conference registration, a
travel stipend and reimbursement
for hotel expenses.
The Robert W. Crawford Recreation and Park Hall of Fame
awards honor individuals who
have worked to improve the quality of life in America through parks
and recreation and who serve as
examples for future leaders in continuing the recreation and park
movement.
Each award has specific eligibility criteria, and all applicants must
be current NRPA members. Visit
www.nrpa.org/awards for details
about each award.

hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to
ring in the New Year by taking part
in guided hikes led by knowledgeable state park staff and volunteers.
According to the National Association of State Park Directors
(NASPD), which began administering the program in 2012, " the
distance and rigor vary from park
to park, but all hikes aim to create a fun experience for the whole
family. People are invited to savor
the beauty of the state park's natural resources with the comfort of
an experienced guide, so they may
be inspired to take advantage of
these local treasures throughout
the year. "
From California to Maine, hik-

ers can experience a variety of
outdoor recreation activities, including mountain and hill climbing, kayaking, walks along lakes
and beaches, exploration of trails
through great forests, wildlife expeditions, bird-watching and much
more, while improving their overall mental and physical health and
wellness.
Visit www.stateparks.org/initia
tives-special-programs/first-dayhikes, and check out the map to
see where a hike may be scheduled
near you or contact info@state
parks.org to find out about organizing/promoting your own First
Day Hike to celebrate the new
year!

First Day Hikes

anuary 1, 2020 will mark the
28th anniversary of First Day
Hikes. This initiative started in Massachusetts to get more
people out in parks and enjoying
nature at a time of the year not
typically associated with outdoor
recreation.
Each year, First Day Hikes programs across the United States get

Parks & Recreation

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December 2019 - Parks & Recreation

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