April 7th & 8th 2025 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Decatur Conference Center 130 Clairemont Ave Decatur, GA, 30030
"Equal Play, Equal Access: Building Inclusive Communities"
Join us for the National Recreation and Park Ethnic Minority Society Equity Summit. This summit brings together leaders, advocates, and community members to explore the importance of equitable access to parks and recreational spaces. Through dynamic sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, we will discuss key strategies to overcome barriers, promote inclusivity, and ensure that all individuals—regardless of age, ability, race, or socioeconomic status—can enjoy the benefits of parks and recreation. Attendees will leave with practical tools and insights to help build more inclusive, accessible, and connected communities. Whether you're a parks professional, community advocate, or policy maker, this summit is your opportunity to learn, collaborate, and be part of the movement towards equitable recreational spaces for all. Topics will include: • Addressing systemic barriers to access • Designing inclusive recreational programs • Enhancing community engagement and representation • Innovative approaches to creating equitable public spaces
Day Two we will host an exclusive Think Tank—a focused, collaborative session aimed at generating innovative solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in creating equitable access to parks and recreation. This immersive experience will bring together thought leaders, policy makers, community advocates, and professionals to engage in deep discussions, brainstorm ideas, and develop actionable strategies for making recreation spaces truly inclusive for all. Key Focus Areas of the Think Tank: • Identifying and dismantling barriers to access in underrepresented communities • Crafting policy recommendations to foster inclusivity in public spaces • Exploring funding models and partnerships for equitable park development • Sharing best practices and case studies from across the country This Think Tank will offer a rare opportunity to collaborate with other innovators and change-makers, providing a platform to exchange ideas, develop new perspectives, and shape the future of parks and recreation equity. Attendees will leave with concrete, actionable takeaways that can be implemented in their own communities.