ABOUT US
On November 29, 1959 the Missouri Recreation Association and the Missouri Recreation and Park Society merged forming the Missouri Park and Recreation Association (MPRA). MPRA serves as the voice for parks and recreation in Missouri on the local, state and national level.
The nonprofit association, whose members work to provide opportunities for all the state’s citizens to enjoy quality leisure activities, is dedicated to promoting public support for parks and recreation and public awareness of the contribution of recreation to a balanced life.
The association works to ensure the growth and improve the quality and accessibility of urban and rural parks, open spaces and recreational lands, facilities and programs for all Missourians. It promotes research and information dissemination on park, conservation, recreation and leisure issues.​
MPRA strives to maintain high standards of professional ethics and practices by promoting continuing education for its membership. The association encourages the support of college and university curricula to enhance research and assure a well-trained stream of future professionals.
MPRA cooperates with public, private and voluntary agencies to assure provision of quality park, recreation, and conservation programs.
MPRA is governed by a board of directors elected by the general membership. The association maintains a headquarters office with a full-time staff in Jefferson City. MPRA is an affiliate member of the National Recreation and Park Association.
Our Mission... To advocate the quality of life through effective use of parks and recreation opportunities, education, and resources.
CONTACT US
Staff
Gary Gates, CPRP
Executive Director
Sarah Veile, CPRP
Assistant Executive Director
Heather Rice
Membership & Marketing Specialist
Our Address
Office Hours
2018 William Street
Jefferson City, MO 65109
Monday – Friday 8:00AM – 4:30PM
\\ Tel: 573.636.3828
Board Leadership
Executive Committee:
President: Miki McKee Koelsch, Webster Groves Parks & Rec
Incoming President: Roosevelt Lyons, Kansas City Parks & Rec
Past President: Brian Schaffer, Des Peres Parks & Rec
Secretary/Treasurer: Mike Snyder, Columbia Parks & Rec
Directors at Large:
Dave Musgrave, (19-21) Ferguson Parks & Rec
Eilien Ramirez, (19-21) Crestwood Parks & Rec
Amy Boyd, Des Peres Parks & Rec
Dennis Dovel, Blue Springs Parks & Rec
Kim Hedgpeth, Florissant Parks & Rec
Northwest Region (1)
Director: Nathan Musteen, Raymore Parks & Rec
Director-Elect (21-22): Justin Merkey, Gladstone Parks & Rec
Past Director: Nate Williams, Excelsior Springs Parks & Rec
Northeast Region (2)
Director: Angie Toebben, Jefferson City Parks & Rec
Director-Elect (21-22): Joey Wilmes, Columbia Parks & Rec
Past Director: Janet Godon, Columbia Parks & Rec
Southwest Region (3)
Southeast Region (4)
Director: Jon Carney, Springfield-Greene County PB
Director-Elect (21-22): Heidi Johnson, Lamar Parks & Rec
Past Director: Jennafer Mayfield , Republic Parks & Recreation
Director: Chris Cholley, Bridgeton Parks & Rec
Director-Elect (21-22): Mike Lueck, Wentzville Parks & Rec
Past Director: James Boyd, Webster Groves Parks & Rec
Sections:
Aquatics Section
President: Jende Smith, St. Joseph Parks & Rec
President-Elect (21-22): Sarah Coulter, Springfield-Greene Cty Park Board
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Park Resources Section
President: Peter VanLinn, St. Charles Parks & Rec
President-Elect (21-22): Susan Jankowski, Great Rivers Greenway
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Sports Section: [July Meeting Agenda]
President: Brittany Johnston, Liberty Parks & Rec
President-Elect (21-22): Kendra Beaver, Excelsior Springs Parks & Rec
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Young Professionals Section
President: Cassie Brandt, Columbia Parks & Rec
President-Elect (21-22): Paul Kettenbach, St. Louis County Parks