Professional certification is the term applied to the process whereby an individual voluntarily submits his or her credentials for review based upon clearly identified competencies, criteria, or standards. The primary purpose of certification is to ensure that personnel employed in recreation, park resources, and leisure services meet high standards of performance.

The National Recreation and Park Association instituted a national certification plan in 1981. The purposes of this plan are:

• to establish national standards for certification in the recreation, park resources, and leisure service profession;


• to provide recognition of individuals who have qualified; and


• to afford a guarantee to employers that certified personnel have attained stated education and experience qualifications.

Certification is one way to achieve individual recognition, enhance self-esteem, and gain respect of parks and recreation peers and the public. Certification enhances the credibility of the individual and the profession as well as providing a reward system for those individuals who achieve a high level of professionalism.The National Certification Board of the National Recreation and Park Association establishes standards for professional qualifications.

All professionals in Idaho wishing to become nationally certified must now apply directly to NRPA. Please visit their website for more information.

For more information about receiving CEU’s at IRPA training opportunities or conferences, please contact the IRPA Certification Representative, Dave Christiansen at (208) 612-8482 or by E-mail at dchristiansen@ci.idaho-falls.id.us