We are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated dates and details for the 2024 Alaska Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) Conference, set to take place in the breathtaking city of Wrangell, Alaska, from September 17th to 19th. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the spirit of recreation and parks in the Last Frontier.
CLICK HERE for more information on the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and Recertification, which will take place on Friday, September 20, through Sunday, September 22, 2024.
CLICK HERE for more information on the Alaska Boating Safety Train the Trainer certification, which will take place on Tuesday, September 17th, 2024. Registration is facilitated through Wrangell Parks and Recreation.
Conference Highlights
Hotel Information: There are a variety of places to stay in Wrangell. We've reserved the majority of rooms at our local waterfront hotel, the Stikine Inn. A number of other beautiful locations are within our community that may meet your needs as well. For the "Recreation" Conference rate, please contact the Stikine Inn directly. Because September is still within our visitor season, we encourage you and your staff to book accommodations early.
Please note that the conference will be held at the Nolan Center, which is located in the center of downtown. Consider the location of your accommodations in relation to the conference facility. Car rentals and transportation options are limited in Wrangell. If you have questions or concerns regarding your stay in Wrangell, please contact the host committee chair, Kate Thomas.
Stikine Inn
Wrangell Extended Stay
Sourdough Lodge
Visit Travel Wrangell for more information on places to stay. You might also consider checking out Wrangell on Airbnb.
Opening Social Event: Kickstart the conference on Tuesday evening with an exciting and fun-filled social event. It's a perfect opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and make new friends.
Two Full Days of Professional Development: Immerse yourself in two full days of enriching professional development sessions, workshops, and inspirational content. Gain insights, learn from experts, and take away valuable knowledge to elevate your career in recreation and parks.
Final Awards and Membership Banquet Dinner: Join us for a memorable evening on Thursday as we celebrate outstanding achievements, recognize excellence in our field, and enjoy a delightful banquet dinner. It's a time to honor the contributions of our members and connect with fellow professionals.
Sponsorship Opportunities: We invite interested parties to explore the exciting sponsorship opportunities available for the 2024 ARPA Conference. By becoming a sponsor, you can elevate your brand, support professional development, and be a vital part of this exceptional event. To learn more about sponsorship levels and benefits, please visit our website for more information.
Scholarship Info and Registration _ CLICK HERE
Call for Education Session Proposals: Do you possess niche knowledge, skills, and interests in the field of recreation and parks? We encourage professionals like you to consider submitting a proposal to speak at the 2024 ARPA Conference. Your unique expertise can contribute to the richness of our conference content. Share your insights, experiences, and innovative ideas with your peers. To submit your proposal or learn more about the submission process, please visit our website to access the proposal form.
Educational Session Proposal Forms_ CLICK HERE
Keynote Speaker and Schedule: Wednesday! Margaret Kelso is a Risk Management Advisor at Cornerstone Safety Group and is the Executive Director of Talisman Programs, a camp in Western North Carolina serving adolescents and young adults with ADHD and on the Autism spectrum. She is also on the Association of Experiential Education Accreditation Council and serves on the Education Committee. Since 2010 she has worked in the experimental education and wilderness/adventure therapy field and has held leadership roles in operations, programming, and risk management with programs in North Carolina, Colorado, and Alaska. She became a W-EMT with Silverton San Juan Ambulance Association in 2013. Margaret has had multiple speaking opportunities for several national and international conferences and focuses on building a community of learners.
Awards Nominations: It's never too early to start thinking about recognizing the outstanding contributions of your colleagues in recreation and parks. We encourage all ARPA members to begin considering nominations for various award categories. Prepare to submit your nomination forms and recognize those who have made a significant impact in our industry. To access nomination forms and find more information about the awards, please visit our website to access awards information and nominations forms.
Awards Categories and Nominations _ CLICK HERE
Registration Details: Early registration for the 2024 ARPA Conference will open soon, so stay tuned for updates on our website. Be sure to secure your spot early to take advantage of special rates and ensure your place at this exceptional event.
Venue: Wrangell, Alaska, provides a stunning backdrop for our conference. Nestled amidst awe-inspiring natural beauty, this location offers a unique setting for both professional development and relaxation.
Discover Wrangell: While attending the conference, take some time to explore Wrangell and all it has to offer. To find information on local activities, attractions, and places to stay, visit the Travel Wrangell website at www.travelwrangell.com. Discover the beauty of this Alaskan gem and make the most of your trip.
As we prepare for this exciting gathering of recreation professionals, we look forward to seeing you in Wrangell and sharing the enriching experiences, knowledge, and camaraderie that make the ARPA Conference a must-attend event.
Keep an eye on your inbox and our website for further updates, including registration details, session topics, speakers, and the keynote address. We can't wait to welcome you to Wrangell in September 2024!
Let's make the 2024 ARPA Conference an incredible celebration of recreation and parks in Alaska!
Conference Activities and Education Session Information
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
(Please note that the schedule is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances)
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
• Alaska Boating Safety, Kids Don’t Float Trainer Certification
o Classroom Session: 8:30 AM-12:00 PM
o In Water Session: 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
o Wrangell Swimming Pool
• Opening Social Event
o Drinks and Appetizers: 5:30 PM-7:30 PM
o Museum Open House 6:00 PM-7:00 PM
o James and Elsie Nolan Center & Museum
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
• Kick Off at 9:00AM
• Tlingit Land Acknowledgement and Cultural Welcoming
• Keynote Speaker, Margaret Kelso
• Evening Pickleball Tournament
Thursday, September 19, 2024
• Special Guest Speaker, Police Chief Gene Meek
• Afternoon scavenger hunt, navigating the history of Wrangell
• Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting
Friday, September 20, 2024
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Recertification
Friday- Sunday, September 20-22, 2024
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification
CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES AND EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS
Pre-Conference Educational Opportunity
When: Tuesday, September 17th, 2024 from 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Where: Wrangell Swimming Pool
Who: Alaska Boating Safety Program
What: Train the Trainer Program with a mixture of classroom and in-water (pool) sessions
Cost: FREE, contact Wrangell Parks and Recreation to Sign Up 907-874-2444
Registration Information and Course Details: https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/boating/kdfhome.htm
Post-Conference Aquatics Certification
When: Friday, September 20th, 2024
Where: Wrangell Swimming Pool
Who: Noelani Kamahele, Owner / Red Cross Instructor, Lavender's Lifesaving Certifications, LLC
What: Lifeguard Instructor Recertification Course
Cost: $275
Registration Information and Course Details: https://lifesavingcertsak.square.site/arpa-lgi-recertseptember-24
Post-Conference Aquatics Certification
When: Friday-Sunday, September 20th – 22nd , 2024
Where: Wrangell Swimming Pool
Who: Noelani Kamahele, Owner / Red Cross Instructor, Lavender's Lifesaving Certifications, LLC
What: Lifeguard Instructor Course
Cost: $475
Registration Information and Course Details: https://lifesavingcertsak.square.site/arpa-lgi-recertseptember-24
Subject: Retaining Humanity and Heart During a Critical Incident
Keynote Speaker: Margaret Kelso
Description: Critical incidents—those unexpected, terrifying events that threaten life or limb—can shatter individuals and organizations alike. These turning points can leave enduring scars or forge unbreakable bonds. Margaret has witnessed firsthand the raw power of these moments, both in her personal life and professional career. She has navigated the aftermath of such crises, supporting those caught in the storm's eye.
Through a blend of personal experiences, the collective ordeal of the COVID-19 pandemic, and in-depth analysis of critical incident data, Margaret will unravel the complex tapestry of community response. She will explore how these events can either tear communities apart or bring them closer together.
Her goal is to equip attendees with the tools to build a robust critical incident response plan. A plan that not only protects their organizations but also prioritizes the well-being of their employees and the community. Margaret will challenge the audience to rethink their approach to crisis management, fostering a culture of collaboration and resilience. By sharing stories of triumph and adversity, she aims to inspire attendees to create a support network that extends beyond organizational boundaries, ultimately strengthening the fabric of their communities.
Subject: Risk Mgmt 101 - Concepts of Safety 1 & 2
Speaker: Margaret Kelso
Description: Risk Management 101 provides a foundational understanding of identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential risks. This session will equip attendees with practical tools to protect their organizations and individuals from unforeseen challenges.
Safety Concepts 1 & 2 delve deeper into proactive risk prevention. Participants will explore advanced strategies for creating a culture of safety and implementing comprehensive safety programs.
Subject: Supporting your employees through the stress continuum
Speaker: Margaret Kelso
Description: This session will explore strategies for helping employees navigate the challenges of workplace stress. From recognizing early signs of stress to implementing comprehensive well-being programs, attendees will gain practical tools to foster a supportive and resilient workforce.
Subject: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Tasks
Speaker: Lauren Eck
Description: Discover how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize the way recreation professionals operate. This session will explore practical applications of AI to streamline administrative tasks, enhance visitor experiences, and make data-driven decisions. Learn how to harness the power of AI to increase efficiency, improve program effectiveness, and stay ahead of industry trends.
Subject: Leave No Trace Principles and Certification
Speaker: Lauren Eck
Description: This session will delve into the essential Leave No Trace principles, providing practical guidance for reducing human impact on natural environments. Participants will learn how to plan and prepare for outdoor adventures, travel and camp responsibly, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors
Subject: Inclusivity as an Integral Part of Programming
Speaker: Lauren Eck
Description: As parks and recreation professionals, it's essential to foster understanding and acceptance of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This session offers valuable insights into the LGBTQ+ community, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to create inclusive environments. Now is the time to step OUT of your comfort zone and into the LGBTQ+ world! From terminology to real life scenarios, you will leave equipped with best practices, tools and resources to create an inclusive environment for all.
Subject: Inclusion- Meeting Kids Where They're At
Speaker: Matt Nore
Description: This session will explore strategies for creating inclusive environments that cater to the unique needs and abilities of every child. Learn how to assess individual differences, develop differentiated instruction plans, and foster a sense of belonging for all learners. Discover practical tips for building supportive relationships with students and creating engaging learning experiences that empower and inspire.
Subject: Meaningful Public Engagement
Speaker: Kate Thomas
Description: Meaningful public engagement involves actively listening to and incorporating community input into decision-making processes. It goes beyond simply informing the public and seeks to build trust, create shared ownership, and foster collaboration. This session will explore strategies for effective engagement, including diverse outreach methods, active listening techniques, and methods for incorporating public feedback into project outcomes. Participants will learn how to build strong community partnerships and create lasting positive impacts.
Subject: Building Community through Story-Telling
Speaker: Laura Davies
Description: This session explores the power of student-led interviews as a means of building community. By empowering students to become interviewers of community storytellers, participants will learn how to foster intergenerational connections, develop critical listening skills, and create platforms for diverse voices. Discover practical strategies for designing interview projects, teaching effective questioning techniques, and curating compelling narratives that inspire and engage the entire community.
Subject: Silos to Synergies - Building a Better Team
Speaker: Bridget Irish
Description: Like many organizations, we feel that our recreation division has silo's, resulting in poor communication across sub-divisions and lack of teamwork amongst our front-line workers. In this presentation, we will be diving into our journey of creating our "dream team". Over the next 6 months our Recreation FTE's will lead our frontline workers in monthly staff meetings that focus on elements (such as team building and job knowledge) needed to create a cohesive team. Staff will be surveyed on their job satisfaction, performance, and feelings of belonging in the workplace before the start of this journey and again after 6 months. We hope to share the first 6 months of our journey with fellow P&R professionals and want to welcome open discussion about managing teams and building up your frontline workers.
Subject: Know your Numbers - Making Better Operational Decisions
Speaker: Scott Bell
Description: Discover how leveraging data can transform your facility's operations. This session will equip you with practical tools to analyze key metrics and make informed decisions. From understanding staff workload and optimizing fee structures to measuring facility impact and planning for the future, you will learn how to use data to drive efficiency, increase revenue, and enhance customer satisfaction. Gain insights into fair pricing strategies, resource allocation, and facility development through data-driven analysis.
Subject: Navigating American Red Cross with Ease
Speaker: Noelani Kamahele
Description: This session will provide an in-depth look at the American Red Cross website, offering essential insights for instructors and administrators. Learn how to effectively manage your facility's Red Cross account, ensuring compliance and maximizing program offerings. Discover the range of available classes and certifications and understand the requirements for maintaining facility currency.
Attendees will gain practical tips for troubleshooting common issues and navigating the website's features. Additionally, this session will address frequently asked questions about the American Red Cross and its programs. Leave with a clear understanding of how to optimize your facility's Red Cross partnership.
Whether you're a seasoned Red Cross instructor or just getting started, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to excel in your role.
Subject: Narcotics – Identification, Detection, Response and Interventions
Speaker: Police Chief Gene Meek
Description: Gain critical insights into the evolving landscape of narcotics from the perspective of law enforcement. The local police chief will share his expertise from 30 years of law enforcement working inner cities, crime suppression teams, street gang units and FBI Violent Crime Task Force work to provide an educational forum on identifying and detecting various substances, developing effective response plans, and implementing intervention strategies. This session provides essential information for community members, professionals, and those interested in understanding the impact of narcotics on our community and providing knowledge to create a safer environment for employees.
Subject: Propel Yourself to the Next Level - Moving from peer to leader
Speaker: Mason Villarma
Description: Discover the essential skills and mindsets needed to transition from a valued team member to a confident and effective leader. This session will provide practical strategies for developing leadership qualities, building strong relationships, and inspiring your team to achieve new heights. Learn how to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and create a lasting impact as a visionary leader.
Subject: Variety
Speaker: Roundtable Series
Description: Join us for engaging roundtable discussions focused on critical issues facing the recreation industry. Explore best practices in aquatics management, delve into effective facility maintenance strategies, playground design& inclusion, and gain insights on budget optimization. Network with peers, share experiences, and find innovative solutions to common challenges.