Park Districts:Your Path To Success

Tom Miller Peoria Park

District

My Path To The Peoria Park District

Background

Education

Career

Today-W.H. Sommer Park

What Is A Park District ?

A local unit of government formed for providing parks (green space) and recreational activities within a geographical area.

Peoria Park District Mission: To enrich life in our community through stewardship of the environment and through provision of quality recreation and leisure opportunities.

There Are Many Career Opportunities For Professionals Who Work For Park Districts

IPRA Career Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0prwZPmJWjE

How Does One Prepare Themselves

For A Career With A Park District?• Enroll in a Bachelor/Master of Science related field

• Seek out a Mentor who is willing to help guild your success

• Choose the correct courses and diversify

• Be involved in WIU clubs, Greek system & volunteer opportunities

• Prepare a resume and keep it updated-you may need it tomorrow

• Summer work-apply early for day/residential camps, internships

• Have a PASSION for what you want to do & do it well

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA)• Outdoor ability

• People skills

• Well organized, Follow-through skills

• Oral-written communication, public speaking

• Physical fitness

• Subject matter (flora/fauna, fitness, sports management, inner-city)

• Risk management

Certifications• There are several types of certifications that may be able to

give you a competitive edge when interviewing or advancement.

• National Park and Recreation Association (NRPA) & Illinois PRA• Certified Park and Recreational Professional (CPRP) or Executive (CPRE)

• Leadership Academy (new program in 2014) IPRA

• National Council for Therapeutic Recreation-Certified TR Specialist (CTRS)

• National Association of Interpretation-Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG)

• Lifeguard: American Red Cross or Ellis NPWLTP

• FEMA National Fire Academy-S130/S190

5 Reasons To Become A Certified Professional

• Greater career opportunity and advancement

• Demonstration of your commitment to the industry

• Enhanced quality of park and recreation services nationwide

• Recognition for your accomplishments and ability to meet national standards

• Expansion of your skills and knowledge through continuing professional development and networking contacts

How Do I Get Hired? What If I Don’t Get Hired?

• Fill out an application. If one is not completed (correctly) you have a zero chance of employment

• There are a number of qualified people seeking different opportunities in Illinois Park Districts. Not everyone can be hired

• Understanding how experiences, volunteer work, personality, attitude, driving/criminal records and skills all play a role in getting an interview

• Seek out opportunities to enhance the resume

• Try, Try, Try Again

Make The Change In Someone’s Life!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joKnKCmJ1cQ

Questions?

Think PurpleThink Western Think Park Districts