Perspectives: one person's journey: NRPA's new president shares his personal story to encourage others to serve.

As I begin as president of NRPA, I wanted to share my own story with the greater NRPA membership in an attempt to encourage others to take a step forward to becoming actively involved in our association.

I gravitated toward a career in the park and recreation field based on values instilled in me by my family at a very early age. I am truly proud of the work I do in concert with our staff in my position as director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Brunswick, Maine--it adds to the fabric of our community and enhances the quality of life for those who live here.

I joined NRPA when I entered the park and recreation workforce because I thought the association could best provide me with tools to become better skilled at work. NRPA has certainly fulfilled this role for me.

As a young professional, I initially became active in my state association, which led to election to the NRPA New England Regional Council. I then served as an elected representative to the APRS Board of Directors and subsequently as a member of the NRPA Board of Trustees. During my tenure as a trustee, I served as chair of both the Public Policy and International Committees. Those who know me well also know of my commitment toward empowering others to become active in the area of advocacy for parks and recreation.

Soon, others began to encourage me to run for president-elect of the association. Having the support of so many citizen and professional peers is a very humbling realization that reflected others' confidence in my abilities to help lead the association.

One of the greatest rewards that I have experienced in my NRPA work is the opportunity to be part of such a talented group of committed people. I have gained a sense of satisfaction and achievement that comes from personal commitment to hard work, and the value of being one contributing member of a team working for the greater good. One of the most significant benefits from my involvement is the number of cherished friendships I have made.

I am fortunate to have a very supportive family who has fostered my continued involvement in NRPA. In addition, I have been similarly encouraged by many mentors to whom I am extremely thankful for words of encouragement that have given me the confidence to take on more challenges.

Why do I take time to share this story with you? Because I serve as an example of what can happen to an individual when he or she seeks to make a difference, is willing to take risks to go beyond one's comfort zone, and is supported by family, friends, mentors and fellow peers.

If you have ever contemplated becoming involved with NRPA at a higher level, I encourage you to take a step forward and do so.

Together we can make a difference in continuing the important work of NRPA. With your assistance, I pledge my sincere efforts to help us further our goals and to grow a more prosperous NRPA.

Thomas M. Farrell, CPRP 

NRPA President