2026 Micro-Certification: Relational Leadership

Micro-Certification in Relationship Building to Increase Value in Parks and Recreation

Goal: To empower professionals in the field of parks and recreation with the knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate mastery in relationship building, thereby showcasing the fundamental value of parks and recreation to a community.

Mission: The Kansas Recreation and Park Association's Micro-Certification Program is dedicated to elevating professionalism in the field of parks and recreation by providing a comprehensive and specialized curriculum focused on relationship building. Our mission is to equip professionals with the tools and expertise needed to forge meaningful connections within their communities, fostering a deep appreciation for the intrinsic value that parks and recreation bring to individuals, families, and the community at large. Through this program, participants will develop the competencies required to showcase the transformative impact of parks and recreation, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents across Kansas.

Registration Opening Soon

Program Details

- Throughout the course, participants are asked to engage in micro task (such as bi-weekly activity challenges, LinkedIn Private Group posts, 2 virtual events, attend 1 of the free in-person KRPA Regional Education Symposiums, peer-to-peer connections and complete 2 reading reflections) 

- Networking: An excellent chance to connect with fellow professionals and share experiences.

- Earn CEUs: Participants will be eligible to earn CEUs based upon their participation in the program with the potential for up to .5 CEUs.

- Cost: $199

Reading Reflections: Participants are required to read 2 books from a selection of books given by KRPA and write a short reflection on your key takeaways. First book is to be completed by August 31st and second book to be completed by November 16th. Audio books are very welcome, and many of the books are available at your local library or through the Libby or Hoopla app for free.


What Participants Are Saying

"I really enjoyed the program! It helped me see things from different perspectives and provided tools necessary to assist in communicating with our stakeholders." 
– Monica

"This course allowed me to dive deep into why we do what we do, why we are passionate about Parks and Recreation, and the value we add to our communities. I learned how to build personal connections and improve my communication skills—not just with patrons, but also with elected officials and coworkers." 
– Michael

General Timeline of Events:

Month 1 (April): Introduction to Relationship Building in Parks and Recreation
- Kickoff Meeting (Member meeting/ Virtual)
- April 13: Email: Article on Transactional/Relational Definitions/Post Word Definition Challenge and introduce yourself to the LinkedIn Group
- Wek of April 20: Virtual Webinar/Group Introductions
- April 27: LinkedIn Post

Month 2 (May): Foundations of Effective Communication (Only 3 tasks)
- May 4: Email: Understanding Community Styles
- May 11: New Small Group Discussion: How Do You Adapt Your Communication Style?
- May 18: LinkedIn Post: Article on Communication Styles (Comment Required)

Month 3 (June): Community Engagement Techniques (Only 3 tasks)
- June 1: Email: Identifying Community Stakeholders
- June 8: LinkedIn Post: Article on Engagement Strategies
- June 15: Email: Spot the Mistake (Bad Engagement Strategies)

Month 4 (July): Cultural Competency and Inclusivity (Only 3 tasks)
- July 6: LinkedIn Post: Marketing Speaker Article
- July 13: Email: Start with their name: Tips for remembering people's names
- July 20: New Small Group Roleplay: Navigating Engagement Scenarios

Month 5 (August): Enhancing Interpersonal Skills 
- Week of August 3: Virtual Webinar 2
- August 10: True Value Video
- August 17: Strategic Communication
- August 24: New Mid-Program Book Reflection Discussion Group
- August 31:  Book Reflection Due

Month 6 (September): Parks and Recreation Key Messaging
- September 14: 5 Key Messaging and Definitions
- September 21: LinkedIn Post: Article/Video
- September 28: Find 5 Images That Reflect the 5 Messages in Your Organization

Month 7 (October): Communicating with Head and Heart
-October 5: Economic Impact Report Submission (Knowing Your Value)
- October 12: New Small Group Brainstorm: “Communicating With Heart” Case Study
- October 19: LinkedIn Post: Article on AI (Tone & Role Definitions)
- October 26: Create a Stakeholder Letter Using AI (Peer Review Required)

Month 8 (November): Applying Relationship Building in Real Scenarios & Final Reflection
- November 2: Aliens Have Landed Activity
- November 9: Building Connections
- November 16: Final Book Reflection
- November 23: Final Survey & Personal Reflection (Program Impact & Personal Growth)

Program Ends Before Thanksgiving!

Questions?

Please contact the KRPA office at (785) 235-6533.