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
info@mopark.org \\ Tel: 573.636.3828
Board Leadership
Executive Committee:
President: Gabe Huffington, Columbia Parks & Rec
Incoming President: Jeff Stubblefield, Maryville Parks & Rec
Past President: Phil Stiles, JC Parks
Secretary/Treasurer: Michael Biedenstein, NRPA
Directors at Large:
Tera Baker, (21-23) Bridgeton Parks & Rec
Cassie Brandt, (21-23) Columbia Parks & Rec
Alyssa Groeteke, (22-24) Wentzville Parks & Rec
Rodney Sadler, (22-24) Kirksville Parks & Rec
BJ Staab, (22-24) Liberty Parks & Rec
Northwest Region (1)
Director: Jody Siemer, KC Parks
Director-Elect (23-24): Brittany Johnston, Liberty Parks & Rec
Past Director: Justin Merkey, Gladstone Parks & Rec
Northeast Region (2)
Director: Leslie Keeney, Moberly Parks & Rec
Director-Elect (23-24): Seth Cooke, Mexico Parks & Rec
Past Director: Joey Wilmes, Columbia Parks & Rec
Southwest Region (3)
Southeast Region (4)
Director: Jill Simmons, Springfield-Greene County Park Board
Director-Elect (23-24): Katie Buford, Nixa Parks & Rec
Past Director: Heidi Johnson, Lamar Parks & Rec
Director: Joseph Seastrom, Ferguson Parks & Rec
Director-Elect (23-24): Amy Hays, Maryland Heights Parks & Rec
Past Director: Mike Lueck, Wentzville Parks & Rec
Sections:
Aquatics Section
President: Kayla Volker, St. Peters Parks & Rec
President-Elect (23-24): Brandon Stortz, Midwest Pool Management
Park Resources Section
President: Jon Carney, Springfield-Greene County Park Board
President-Elect (23-24): Vacant
Sports Section:
President: Morgan Tangen, Grandview Parks & Rec
President-Elect (23-24): Joey Wilmes, Columbia Parks & Rec
Young Professionals Section
President: Brittanie Propes, Smithville Parks & Rec
President-Elect (23-24): Katelyn Haniford, Ferguson Parks & Rec