PRPS Governmental Affairs Committee:

As many of you know the political landscape is ever changing and the importance of individuals such as you is an integral part in the success of the masses.  As each administration takes control, and the eventual change of legislators your voice is important to educate them on the importance of the issues that we face in our professional career.  As a new comer to the Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) I have had limited activity with the committee other than discussions that I have had with my local representatives or senators regarding certain issues.

That has changed due in part to the support and education that I have received by veteran members of the GAC. One of our main committee goals for 2013-14 is to reenergize the committee and to have more involvement in the governmental affairs of PRPS.  It is important to have members in attendance of such events as the Key 93 Anniversary, PRPS Capitol Day and other events that we hold throughout the year.  I feel that for us to obtain this goal we need to have properly trained members on the ins and outs of advocacy and to provide as much information as possible regarding topics that may require action.

PRPS has taken the first step into this process by developing partnerships with two Advocacy Conservations Organizations, the Growing Greener Coalition (GGC) and the Pennsylvania Land Trust Association (PALTA).  These partnerships will be advocacy partners with PRPS so we can be more proactive than reactive and both organizations will be able to assist in the education of our membership on how to become advocates for issues that affect what we do and love.

By having PRPS make this commitment we are asking that our members make the same commitment and to contact Douglas W. Knauss, CPRP, Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman at 610-828-7276 x 2401 or dknauss@whitemarshtwp.org to discuss what it is to be a member of the committee.

                  Advocacy Training Module by NRPA:

http://www.nrpa.org/media/articulate/advocacy/power-of-you/player.html

Sincerely,

Douglas W. Knauss, CPRP

Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman

When you join PRPS, you add your voice to Pennsylvania's largest advocate for recreation and parks, helping to protect and promote the profession at all levels of government. PRPS monitors and keeps you informed about state and federal issues, legislation, and regulations that directly impact recreation and parks. An annual legislative reception is held in Harrisburg. Through PRPS leadership, the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund was established, which provides state grant funds and technical assistance to local governments, municipal authorities, non-profit organizations and land trusts. Our partner, PSECU, supports local parks and recreation, check out their public service announcement by clicking here. Join them and many others across the state to ensure the sustainability of Pennsylvania parks and recreation! 

PRPS will help to make sure your voice is heard through:

 Legislative advocacy in support of recreation, parks and conservation with key contributions to the Growing Greener and he Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund (Key 93) programs. PRPS was a lead organization in the coalitions that supported both initiatives. 

 Representation on important statewide advisory groups such as the DCNR Advisory Council and the Pennsylvania Greenways Partnership Commission. 

 Updates to members on standards, regulations and requirements that impact their organizations such as lifeguard regulations, playground safety standards, long-term care regulations and state grant application requirements.