Get Involved

Help Shape the Future of Parks and Recreation in California

The California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS) is seeking passionate leaders who are ready to help guide the future of the profession. Serving on the CPRS Board of Directors is an opportunity to represent members from across the state, influence the direction of the association, and support the advancement of parks and recreation throughout California.

Whether you are an experienced leader or looking to take the next step in your professional journey, we encourage you to consider nominating yourself for a Board position.

Why Serve?

As a member of the CPRS Board of Directors, you will have the opportunity to:

• Help establish the strategic direction of CPRS.
• Represent the needs and interests of members throughout California.
• Strengthen the parks and recreation profession through leadership and advocacy.
• Build valuable relationships with professionals across the state.
• Develop your leadership skills while giving back to your profession.

Positions Open for Nomination

Each year, CPRS accepts nominations for Board positions whose terms are ending. Depending on the election cycle, positions may include:

• Presidential Series
• Secretary-Treasurer
• Region 1 Representative
• Region 2 Representative
• Region 3 Representative
• Region 4 Representative
• Region 5 Representative
• Section Representative

The specific positions available for election each year will be announced when the nomination period opens.

Terms of Office.  

The terms of office for all directors are:

• Presidential Series: One (1) three-year term consisting of one (1) year as Vice president, one (1) year as President-Elect, and one (1) year as President; up to and until their respective successors are duly elected and installed
  
  
• Secretary-Treasurer: Two (2) year term, up to and until their respective successors are duly elected and installed
  
  
• Region Representatives: Two (2) year term, up to and until their respective successors are duly elected and installed
  
  
• Section Representatives: Two (2) year term, up to and until their respective successors are duly elected and installed. 

Who Can Apply?

Any eligible CPRS member in good standing who meets the qualifications outlined in the CPRS Bylaws is encouraged to submit a nomination. Board members are expected to actively participate in Board meetings, strategic planning, committee work, and leadership activities throughout their term.

How to Nominate Yourself

Self-nominations are welcomed and encouraged.

To be considered, complete the online Candidate Interest Form during the nomination period. The form will ask about your professional background, leadership experience, volunteer service, qualifications, and interest in serving on the CPRS Board of Directors.

Once nominations close, candidate eligibility will be reviewed by the Nominating Committee. Eligible candidates will then be presented to the Board of Directors for approval before the election begins.

Election Timeline

Make a Difference

The future of CPRS depends on dedicated volunteer leaders who are willing to share their time, expertise, and passion for parks and recreation. If you're ready to help shape the future of the profession and make a lasting impact across California, we encourage you to nominate yourself for the CPRS Board of Directors.

Your leadership can help inspire the next generation of parks and recreation professionals.

Lead Within Your Local and Professional Community

CPRS Districts and Sections are led by dedicated volunteers who help create meaningful opportunities for networking, education, leadership development, and member engagement throughout the year. Serving on a District or Section Board is a rewarding way to make a difference while growing your leadership skills and expanding your professional network.

Whether you're interested in representing your geographic region or advancing a specific area of the profession, we encourage you to nominate yourself for a leadership position.

Why Serve?

As a District or Section Board member, you will have the opportunity to:

• Shape programs and events that benefit your local or professional community.
• Collaborate with passionate parks and recreation professionals.
• Develop leadership experience and expand your professional network.
• Represent the interests and needs of your fellow members.
• Help strengthen the parks and recreation profession across California.

Positions Open for Nomination

Each District and Section elects officers and board members according to its governing documents. Depending on the District or Section, positions may include:

• President
• President-Elect or Vice President
• Past President
• Secretary
• Treasurer
• Director-at-Large
• Student Representative
• Board Member or Committee Representative

Available positions vary by District and Section and will be announced when the nomination period opens.

Who Can Apply?

Any eligible CPRS member in good standing who belongs to the applicable District or Section is encouraged to submit a nomination. Board members are expected to actively participate in meetings, planning activities, and events while supporting the goals of their District or Section.

How to Nominate Yourself

Self-nominations are welcomed and encouraged.

To be considered, complete the online Candidate Interest Form during the nomination period. The form will ask about your professional background, leadership experience, volunteer service, qualifications, and interest in serving your District or Section.

After nominations close, candidate eligibility will be reviewed before the election ballot is finalized.

Election Timeline

Make an Impact Close to Home

Districts and Sections are where many CPRS leaders begin their leadership journey. By volunteering your time and expertise, you'll help shape educational opportunities, strengthen professional connections, and make a lasting impact on your colleagues and communities.

If you're ready to get involved, we encourage you to nominate yourself and become part of the next generation of CPRS leaders.

Help Advance the California Foundation for Parks & Recreation

The California Foundation for Parks & Recreation (CFPR) is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to turning generosity into impact. We receive grants, donations, and contributions, directing those funds to educate both the public and the profession about the life-changing benefits of parks and recreation. We champion excellence and innovation in community services, fund research to advance the profession, support education in parks and recreation and related fields, and invest in special projects that promote healthy, vibrant communities across California.

Our Objectives

• Invest in California communities through parks and recreation initiatives.

• Support education and research that elevate the park and recreation profession.

• Build strong partnerships and coalitions to expand our reach and impact.

• Sustain the Foundation’s mission through long-term growth and capacity building.

Why Serve?

As a CFPR Trustee, you will have the opportunity to:

• Support scholarships, grants, and programs that benefit parks and recreation professionals and communities.
• Help shape the Foundation's strategic vision and priorities.
• Assist with fundraising initiatives and donor engagement.
• Expand your professional network by collaborating with leaders from across California.
• Give back to the profession while developing your own leadership skills.

Help Build the Future

The California Foundation for Parks & Recreation exists because of dedicated volunteers who believe in the power of parks and recreation to transform lives. By serving as a CFPR Trustee, you'll help ensure the Foundation continues to provide meaningful support, create new opportunities, and invest in the future of the profession.

If you're ready to make a difference, we encourage you to nominate yourself and become part of the CFPR leadership team.

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