The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) launched a new initiative to help develop a Workforce Development Framework for local park and recreation agencies. The funding was provided by the United States Department of Labor through the Workforce Pathways for Youth program.

 

NRPA will utilize the grant to work with multiple partners to help 2,200 individuals in workforce development. Partners on this project will help with career readiness and contributing to the development of a virtual learning series.

"Thousands of park and recreation agencies across the country offer a workforce development and/or career exploration program targeted to youth and young adults entering the labor force for the first time," said Kristine Stratton, NRPA president and CEO. "Building workforce skills and connecting young people to new career opportunities will help strengthen the park and recreation professional pipeline and workforce, ensuring that parks and recreation continues its essential role in creating inclusive, thriving and resilient communities in the United States."

The U.S. Department of Labor awarded the grant through the Workforce Pathways for Youth program. The program was developed to aid in efforts towards workforce readiness in underserved youth ages 14 to 21 in 21 states.