contents november 2019 volume 54 | number 11 | www.parksandrecreation.org 2019 NRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Lindsay Collins and Suzanne Nathan From the Opening General Session to the closing act of the 2019 NRPA Annual Conference, speakers, exhibitors and attendees alike shared stories about the many ways in which parks and recreation matter. Read about the events that took place in Baltimore, where innovators were recognized, and attendees learned from the park and rec professionals and advocates who are making an impact. 32 Time to Play! 35 The Importance of Parks 38 NRPA's Dolesh Receives 2019 Pugsley Medal 4 Parks & Recreation | N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 9 | W W W. PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N . O R G FEATURES 40 How Parks and Recreation Can Support Mental Health Initiatives Barbara Heller and Molly Young With 1 in 5 people suffering from a mental health condition within their lifetime, it's likely we all know someone who has been affected. Park and recreation agencies can play an important role in helping those with mental health challenges by working with experts to provide programs and services for individuals in need.