2026 Fall Workshop Sessions
Park Track
Wednesday, September 23 | 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Parks and Recreation Infrastructure: Accessibility Standards and Strategies
John N. McGovern and Tatum N. Storey
Parks and facilities are critical infrastructure for people with and without disabilities. In the morning, we will review standards and strategies for compliance. In the afternoon, we divide into three groups and evaluate playgrounds, sports fields and courts, and trails and picnic areas. The session closes with resources and smart practices from across the country.
Recreation Track
Wednesday, September 23 | 8:30 am - 10:45 am
Cost Recovery That Works: A Practical Framework for Implementation
Kristin Grissom
Many parks and recreation professionals talk about cost recovery and know the foundation and theory, but fewer successfully implement a model that is clear, defensible, and sustainable.This session introduces a practical framework for actually implementing a cost recovery model that aligns with community values while strengthening the financial sustainability of programs and services. Participants will explore key components of an effective model, including program categorization, identifying true direct costs, and establishing appropriate cost recovery targets.The session will also highlight the importance of developing a written cost recovery philosophy to guide decision-making and strengthen conversations with leadership and elected officials. Attendees will leave with a clear framework they can begin applying within their own departments.
Wednesday, September 23 | 11:00 pm - 12:00 pm
Finding and Stewarding Sponsorship Connections
Jade Pekol
Asking for money is never easy and isn’t for the faint of heart. There are manysteps to turning a business into a continuous funding source. This session will go over the who's, the how's, the "sponsorship guide" and the future of stewardship
Wednesday, September 23 | 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
From Behavior to Belonging: A Manager’s Role in Program Culture
Erin Cross & Katie Roth
Managers are often pulled in when challenges arise, but the real impact comes from what is built before those moments happen. This session highlights how supervisors can shift from reacting to behavior to creating program cultures rooted in consistency, support, and belonging. Participants will gain tools to better support staff and strengthen the overall experience.
Wednesday, September 23 | 3:15 pm - 4:30 pm
Tour of the New Berlin Activity & Recreation Center and Hickory Grove Community Center
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