About Us

Founded in 1965, the Wisconsin Park and Recreation Association is a statewide, voluntary organization dedicated to enriching the professional and educational opportunities available to personnel in parks, recreation, aquatics, and related fields, so that they may better service the needs of their communities and or participants, and to advocating and promoting the benefits of parks and services to the general public.

The Wisconsin Park & Recreation Association is a membership association that represents over 1,500 individuals delivering a broad spectrum of services in Wisconsin. Members include Park, Recreation, and Aquatic professionals in local, county, state, school district, private, and agency settings. WPRA also represents public Park and Recreation Boards and Commissions, students, commercial firms and Emeritus (retired) members. 

Mission Statement
To empower and support WPRA members by fostering professional growth, advocating for the parks and recreation profession, and enhancing the quality of life for communities across Wisconsin through education, networking, and leadership development.

Vision Statement
Fostering a thriving parks and recreation profession that is recognized for its essential role in creating vibrant, healthy, and connected communities throughout Wisconsin, WPRA members lead the way in innovation, collaboration, and professional excellence.

Values
Advocacy: We are committed to promoting the importance of parks and recreation in shaping resilient and sustainable communities and acknowledge and respect the importance of valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of our efforts.

Collaboration: We believe in the power of connection and teamwork to drive collective success, sharing knowledge and resources to elevate the profession.

Community Impact: We create positive change in the lives of those we serve, ensuring that parks, recreation, and aquatics contribute to the well-being of everyone in Wisconsin.

Lifelong Learning: We provide ongoing education and professional development opportunities to help our members grow and succeed.

Professionalism: We uphold high standards of integrity, leadership, and accountability in all our actions, striving for continuous improvement in our field.