WE UNITE
mParks strives to create a park and recreation industry that serves as the foundation of communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Association and for the people we serve.
Parks and recreation are for everyone.
We strive to build an industry that reflects and uplifts the diverse communities we serve — across Michigan and beyond.
From playgrounds to trails, recreation centers to neighborhood parks, our mission is rooted in fairness, belonging, and access for all. Through the mParks Unite pillar, we are working together to strengthen the field of parks and recreation by embracing the full range of lived experiences and ensuring no one is left out.
From playgrounds to trails, recreation centers to neighborhood parks, our mission is rooted in fairness, belonging, and access for all. Through the mParks Unite pillar, we are working together to strengthen the field of parks and recreation by embracing the full range of lived experiences and ensuring no one is left out.
Inclusive Membership
Everyone deserves a seat at the table — and a voice in the conversation.
mParks is committed to creating an inclusive Association that welcomes and supports members across a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. We are proud to be a professional community for:
We recognize that representation matters.
Not just in our membership, but in our leadership, committees, events, and programs. We are actively working to remove barriers and broaden access, so that our Association is as dynamic and multifaceted as the communities we serve.
mParks is committed to creating an inclusive Association that welcomes and supports members across a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. We are proud to be a professional community for:
- People of different races, ethnicities, and cultures
- People of all gender identities and expressions
- Every career stage (students, new professionals, middle managers, executive leaders, and retirees)
Individuals with varying physical and cognitive abilities - Members from under-resourced and economically diverse communities
- Urban, suburban, and rural park and recreation agencies
We recognize that representation matters.
Not just in our membership, but in our leadership, committees, events, and programs. We are actively working to remove barriers and broaden access, so that our Association is as dynamic and multifaceted as the communities we serve.
Representing the Communities We Serve
Parks and recreation play a vital role in community life — and so do we.
As park and recreation professionals, we are often the face of public service in our neighborhoods. That’s why we work to ensure our programs and policies reflect the voices, values, and needs of the people who rely on them.
Using a framework of targeted universalism, we pursue broad community goals through strategies that address specific barriers. Whether that means increasing access to green spaces in historically under-resourced areas, or designing recreation programs that are welcoming for older adults, people with disabilities, or multilingual households — our work is guided by data, lived experience, and a deep commitment to fairness.
As park and recreation professionals, we are often the face of public service in our neighborhoods. That’s why we work to ensure our programs and policies reflect the voices, values, and needs of the people who rely on them.
Using a framework of targeted universalism, we pursue broad community goals through strategies that address specific barriers. Whether that means increasing access to green spaces in historically under-resourced areas, or designing recreation programs that are welcoming for older adults, people with disabilities, or multilingual households — our work is guided by data, lived experience, and a deep commitment to fairness.
Moving Forward, Together
|
This is more than a statement — it’s a shared responsibility.
mParks continues to evolve with the changing legal and cultural landscape, but our values remain steady. We are shifting language, not backing down. We are building a welcoming culture, not ticking boxes. Through professional development, thoughtful programming, and community-driven leadership, we are making parks and recreation a space where everyone belongs — and where everyone can thrive. |
|
