NCRPA’s strategic planning process marked an important step in shaping the future of our association and the profession we serve. In 2024, the Strategic Plan Committee partnered with Armstrong McGuire to take a thoughtful and comprehensive look at our mission, vision, values, and long-term priorities. This work was informed by member survey feedback and conversations with key stakeholders across the state.
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North Carolina Recreation and Park Association (NCRPA) is dedicated to advancing and empowering the parks and recreation profession through professional development, advocacy, and connection.
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North Carolina Recreation and Park Association (NCRPA) elevates awareness and appreciation for the parks and recreation profession by highlighting the impact it has in making our state a desirable place to reside, play, and explore.
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Inclusive
We value and welcome diverse perspectives and backgrounds, understanding that different representations make us a stronger association in advocating for parks and recreation for all.
Innovative
We are committed to strengthening our services and support for our members and being a visionary thought leader in the parks and recreation profession.
Collaborative
We are only as strong as those we serve and are committed to open dialogue and engagement to ensure responsiveness to the needs of our members.
Effective
We vow to be good stewards of the trust our members have placed in us and to remain on sustainable footing through internal policies and external programs that are timely, responsive, and relevant.
In 2025, the NCRPA Board of Directors officially adopted the Strategic Plan, establishing a clear direction for the organization. Since adoption, focused priorities have been identified from each goal, creating a three to five year roadmap that guides our work and ensures we are delivering meaningful value to our members.
As we move forward, NCRPA remains committed to aligning our programs, services, and partnerships with this plan, while continuing to listen, adapt, and grow alongside the professionals and communities we serve.
2026 Priorities
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Continue to balance virtual and in-person offerings, rotating locations for accessibility. Vary in-person training sites to be intentional with the size of city and location within the state.
Explore opportunities to partner with other P&R state associations and groups to offer relevant trainings.
Launch an annual needs assessment to inform planning of workshops and trainings.
Develop a simple online interest form to streamline recruitment and selection with clear expectations, responsibilities, and support resources for group members.
Identify, recruit, and select regional ambassadors (no more than 4 per region) to coordinate and promote local learning sessions, facility tours, and meet-ups.
Create a nomination process for all volunteer leadership opportunities that includes succession documents outlining key responsibilities and timelines.
Create an engaging annual report or impact summary to share highlights and milestones.
Conduct an annual review of revenue streams and program profitability.
Identify local parks and recreation strategic partnerships, and create collaborative opportunities for connection on a regional and/or statewide basis.
Distribute a simple guideline document outlining roles, expectations, and goals.
Offer an annual connection opportunity with all advisory group members to share our mission and guidelines, while also allowing the opportunity for input and feedback.
Special thanks to our Strategic Planning Team
(July 2024)