We Teach
mParks creates programs that educate and inform key audiences (within the parks and recreation community and for communities they serve) about conservation, health and wellness and other issues vital to parks and recreation in Michigan.
Advancing Michigan’s Park & Recreation Professionals
mParks is committed to supporting and empowering professionals through high-quality, relevant, and accessible education. Led by the Professional Development Committee, our education mission is to strengthen the field of parks and recreation by providing the tools, training, and resources professionals need to grow, lead, and thrive.
Professional Development, Designed for You
Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned leader, mParks offers opportunities that meet you where you are. From one-day workshops and virtual webinars to immersive multi-day summits and the annual mParks Conference & Trade Show, we provide a variety of learning experiences tailored to the evolving needs of our membership.
Pathways to Certification
mParks is a proud resource for professionals pursuing and maintaining the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) credentials. Through intentional programming and focused support, we help individuals achieve these career milestones—equipping them to deliver inclusive, community-centered services across Michigan. mParks also strives to offer opportunities to provide Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI), Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO), Certified Youth Sports Administrator (CYSA), and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist continuing education credits.
Training Rooted in Shared Values
Our educational offerings are grounded in the values that guide the profession: access, fairness, safety, and community well-being. We focus on building soft skills, leadership capacity, and technical knowledge while addressing barriers that can impact service delivery across different communities.
Led by Professionals, Built for Professionals
The Professional Development Committee and its sub-committees—Certification and Conference—shape the direction of mParks’ education programming. These volunteer leaders ensure our offerings reflect real-world challenges, emerging best practices, and the expertise of those actively serving Michigan’s communities. The Professional Development Committee includes representatives from each region of the state, ensuring that community voices help drive state-level solutions.
Pathways to Certification
mParks is a proud resource for professionals pursuing and maintaining the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) credentials. Through intentional programming and focused support, we help individuals achieve these career milestones—equipping them to deliver inclusive, community-centered services across Michigan. mParks also strives to offer opportunities to provide Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI), Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO), Certified Youth Sports Administrator (CYSA), and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist continuing education credits.
Training Rooted in Shared Values
Our educational offerings are grounded in the values that guide the profession: access, fairness, safety, and community well-being. We focus on building soft skills, leadership capacity, and technical knowledge while addressing barriers that can impact service delivery across different communities.
Led by Professionals, Built for Professionals
The Professional Development Committee and its sub-committees—Certification and Conference—shape the direction of mParks’ education programming. These volunteer leaders ensure our offerings reflect real-world challenges, emerging best practices, and the expertise of those actively serving Michigan’s communities. The Professional Development Committee includes representatives from each region of the state, ensuring that community voices help drive state-level solutions.
