Region 3 Representative Candidate Melissa Johnson

Why have you chosen to run for the CPRS State Board of Directors?
I have spent over 15 years of my career in a small Community Services District in a rural area of Central California with limited staffing, and an even more limited budget. This has led to a unique understanding of all the areas of parks and recreation services that we provide and a creative approach to problem-solving. Like so many in our profession, I'm a people person and thrive in high energy environments. In addition to community events and senior activities, our department is tasked with the operations of several youth sports leagues and activities, which is unique for our area. I've always said that we're teaching more than sports on our fields and courts and I firmly believe that these lessons translate into everyday life. Sports require the same skills our work requires; teamwork, leadership, commitment, resilience, discipline, adversity, acceptance, courage, hard work, adaptability, celebrating the success of others.

What personal attributes, skills, or knowledge would you bring to the State Board of Directors if elected?
Being a member of CPRS has been instrumental to furthering the profession of parks and recreation and to my own growth in the field of Recreation. From the educational efforts at the State Conference every year to the resources and networking opportunities this organization provides its members, the benefits are as vast and varied as the profession itself. I am consistently touting the importance of being involved in CPRS, whether it's as a participating member or on a District Board. I believe in the mission of CPRS and would love the opportunity to learn even more by participating on the State Board.

What is the greatest challenge our profession faces and how will you lead to address that challenge?
Among our greatest challenges, at least as I see it, is positioning Parks and Recreation as a necessary service as opposed to a frivolity or a bonus. I also see this as being directly tied to the JEDI efforts being adopted by CPRS. High quality recreation programs or epic parks that promote play for all ages should never be reserved for the areas that can pay for it. Access to these programs and these spaces should be universal. As leaders in the field, we see the benefits of program participation on a daily basis. We recognize the value of a neighborhood park in good condition without a second thought. But we are not always good about cheerleading our own efforts and too often we take a backseat to other, equally essential efforts in local government. The VIP Action Plan developed by CPRS is absolutely incredible in pinpointing the specific value added to a community with a thriving parks and recreation agency. I would love to work toward furthering that mission, ensuring access for all.