Their dedication and commitment to the profession are the key to the successful delivery of all MRPA services. The benefits of becoming a member will increase your effectiveness as an advocate for parks, recreation, and leisure services. Deb Smith is current editor in chief for the newsletter. Certification validates what we do through a national program. One of the benefits of becoming a certified leisure personnel is that it affords individuals the opportunity to engage in educational opportunities on a continual basis.
Certification is an attainable goal and it provides recognition for individuals who have qualified.
RLP - Retired Leisure Professional Dr. William Eckart from the University of Maine at Machias can be contacted for the certification materials. The annual spring and fall conferences provide members with a forum to exchange ideas, learn about new programs, acquire continuing education units and network with peers. The year 2000 Northern New England conference will be held jointly with the New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont Associations. It will take place at the Red Jacket Inn located in North Conway, New Hampshire from January 7 - January 9, 2000. The annual spring conference will take place at the Samoset Resort located in Rockport, Maine from April 24 - April 26, 2000.