Vermont Recreation and Parks Association - Wednesday Session Information

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VT Annual Conference
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Wednesday Session Information

Education Session Information - Wednesday, October 8th

Thank you room sponsors!!!

Time

Room

Session Description + Speaker Bio

Block 1

9:00 - 10:00 am

Gateway I

Northstar I

Gateway II

Northstar II

Escapade I & II

“I’ll Fight (FOR) An Old Person!” Recognizing & Conquering Ageism in the Leisure & Recreation Workforce

"With an aging workforce, fostering a supportive environment is essential. This course examines workplace ageism, particularly in recreation and leisure, where physical demands and tech resistance can marginalize older workers. We'll discuss generational misunderstandings, highlight reverse ageism, and develop solutions to bridge divides. By valuing older employees’ loyalty, experience, and perspectives, workplaces can combat ageism, encouraging mutual respect and collaboration between generations for a more inclusive and harmonious work environment.""

Thennie Freeman, DC Department of Parks and Recreation |

Partnership Building with UVM's Rubenstein School

Learn how the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources at UVM centers experiential learning for students through intentional and scaffolded support to promote student career development. We will provide an overview of our department’s structure and best practices to meet student needs, our inclusive excellence objectives in relation to experiential learning and career development, and current structures for community engagement. This session will also explore new ideas for community partnership building and may feature stakeholders such as student interns, site supervisors, and/or faculty.

Sarah Mell, UVM Rubenstein

& Emily LeForce, UVM Rubenstein

Regional Trail Collaboration

In many parts of the state, trail organizations across user-types are exploring what challenges they share, what opportunities exist, and how they might collaborate to obtain funding, manage trails, recruit volunteers, and steward trails more efficiently. Kate Baxter (Lunenburg Outdoors: Recreation, Trails, and Tourism (RTT); Misha Golfman (Mad River Path), Russ Hirschler (Upper Valley Trails Alliance) and Jeff Nugent (Windham RPC) will each share their region's collaborative model for outdoor recreation. Participants will have time to ask questions and explore what collaboration could look like in their area. Facilitated by Sharon Plumb (VTGC) and Claire Polfus (FPR).

Sharon Plumb, VT Trails & Greenways Council | Claire Polfus, VT Agency of Natural Resources & Forests, Parks, & Recreation

Sharon Plumb Sharon serves as the Program Manager for the VT Trails & Greenways Council.

Claire Polfus is the Recreation Program Manager with the VT Agency of Natural Resources and the Department of Forests, Parks, & Recreation.

Grant Writing 101

Grants can help build financial capacity to make your big ideas happen, but grant writing is both an art and science that many folks were never trained to do and sometimes it gets added to work plans under “additional duties as assigned.” This session will cover some basics of grant writing, provide tips and tricks to increase your success, and introduce you to grant opportunities available for outdoor recreation from the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation.

Lauren Pyle, VT Department of Forests, Parks, & Recreation

The Hidden Patterns (1): Mapping Public Recreation with Advanced Techniques with Sensors & Surveys (Session 1)

The three presenters will gather the group outdoors where a variety of user data capture resources will be laid out. Data capture systems will include infrared sensors, metal sensors, tube sensors, and cameras. Each will be explained, and focus will be given to the benefits and drawbacks of each. The audience will have the opportunity to explore each system, and groups will be developed to install them in each of the presentation rooms.

| Walter Opuszynski, VT Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation

Drew Pollak-Bruce, CRO Planning & Design

Block 2

10:10 - 11:10 am

Gateway I

Northstar I

Gateway II

Northstar II

Escapade I & II

The Conservation - Recreation Toolkit

This session will cover how to thoughtfully and intentionally work with conservation partners as you build and maintain recreation opportunities in your communities. It will explore strategies for successful partnerships when identifying projects and permanently protecting land, designing parks and trails, and managing infrastructure, and highlight the symbiotic relationship between recreation and conservation and how it can be leveraged to achieve multiple goals. The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation brings a unique perspective as a leader in both the conservation and recreation spaces in Vermont. This session will look at the approaches, communication strategies, and tools VT FPR uses to promote the valuable nexus between the protection of natural values and recreational resources, as well as lessons learned along the way.

Claire Polfus & Gunnar Nurme, VT Dept. of Forests, Parks, & Recreation

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: How to Lead with Empathy and Clarity

As recreation professionals, the ability to connect with and motivate diverse groups is essential for success. This session highlights the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in leadership and its impact on creating positive, supportive environments in recreation programs. Attendees will explore how the five key components of EQ—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills—can help leaders navigate interactions with staff, participants, and the community with greater understanding and clarity. Through practical tools and real-world examples, this session will equip recreation managers with strategies to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and inspire their teams to deliver exceptional experiences. Whether managing outdoor trips, community events, or recreation centers, this session will help you lead with empathy, strengthen relationships, and create a thriving, inclusive environment for all.

Kirsten Santor, Burlington Parks, Recreation, & Waterfront

Program Coordinator 101: From Concept to Execution

Whether you're new to programming or looking to refine your approach, this seminar will guide you through the essential steps of building impactful community programs—from the first spark of an idea to the final participant evaluation. We'll explore the full program lifecycle: Identifying community needs through surveys and other indicators Brainstorming and planning creative, inclusive programs Using budget templates to allocate resources effectively Applying survey and data results to drive decision-making Managing timelines, logistics, and stakeholder communication Utilizing effective and proven marketing strategies to drive engagement. When to end a program when it has plateaued or declining

Jon Kazanjian, Asst. Director, Watertown, MA | Nick Campion, Asst. Director, Danvers, MA |

Jon Kazanjian Kaz is the Assistant Director of Recreation for the City of Watertown. Prior to that, he spent seven years as a Program Coordinator in Littleton, where he developed a wide range of successful and inclusive community programs. Before entering the field of recreation, Kaz was a stay-at-home dad for 13 years, raising his two boys. During school breaks, he created “Camp Kaz,” a homegrown program for his sons and their friends that sparked his passion for recreation and inspired his career change. Earlier in his professional life, Kaz worked for a decade as a Superintendent on the Big Dig in Boston. In 2025, he was honored with the Program Outreach Award at the MRPA Conference for his innovative “Adult Recess” program. Kaz’s true passion lies in creating fun, welcoming experiences that bring people together through recreation.
Nick Campion Nick Campion is the Assistant Recreation Director for the Town of Danvers, MA and previously served as the Recreation Supervisor for the City of Somersworth, NH. Nick is currently the President Elect of MRPA, and additionally serves as a board member on various committees in his hometown of Exeter, NH. Nick holds a bachelor’s degree in sports management and a master’s in public administration. He is passionate about building a positive team culture and embracing new ideas and changes in pursuit of a more efficient and equitable organization.

Belonging Is The New Inclusion

It's time to move the needle toward meaningful participation and friendship. Inclusion is more than access — it's about belonging. Explore eight core elements that foster genuine connection, meaningful participation, and authentic friendships. Discover strategies to highlight each participant’s strengths and create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued. Leave with practical tips to deepen belonging for all participants.

Lisa Drennan, MERGE

Lisa Drennan Lisa has dedicated her career to fostering inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Starting at New England Village, she advanced from direct support professional to designing the Sollar Wellness Center. At the South Shore YMCA, she expanded her impact as the Association Director of Inclusion. Nationally recognized, she co-chaired Y-USA’s Diverse Abilities Working Group. In 2018, Lisa founded MERGE Inclusion Consulting, offering training and guidance to help community organizations create truly inclusive spaces. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to ensuring everyone has a place to belong.

Software that Simplifies your Recreation Management - MyRec.com User Group

This session for current MyRec.com users will cover all features of the software including important updates since we last met and our latest accessibility information. We will highlight our newest features, demonstrate how you could and should use the system, and give you tips and tricks to make your life easier. There will be a question/answer period for all involved. Let's share how you simplify your recreation management!

Tracey Rivera-Cooper & Maria Heard, MyRec.com

Maria Heard After years in the classroom and organizing school recreation, Marie transitioned to municipal recreation as a Recreation Programmer in mid-Michigan. As our Client Resources Coordinator and Training Specialist, Marie is responsible for customizing live training sessions, creating tutorials and walk-throughs for our knowledge base, building demos and hosting live quarterly webinars, and preparing and hosting client user groups. Her goal is to teach you how to use the tools within MyRec.com to provide exceptional experiences for your community members and to be able to train your own staff with a high level of confidence and success.

Block 3

Speed Sessions

11:30 - 12:00 pm

Gateway I

Northstar I

Gateway II

Northstar II

Escapade I & II

1% to 25%. Diversity success in sailing

How did a Community Sailing Center go from 1% participation among BIPOC kids to 25% in under 5 years? This session will share the story and open up audience discussion for ways the lessons learned can translate to all outdoor recreation.

Owen Milne, Community Sailing Center

Owen Milne Owen is currently the Executive Director at the Community Sailing Center. Prior to that, he worked as a Workplace Consultant for Red Thread, and was the Development Director at VT Businesses for Social Responsibility. Owen has served on a variety of nonprofit boards and state commissions including the Governor's Committee for the Employment of People With Disabilities, SerVermont, Partnership for Change, VT Green Building Network, Northeast Disabled Athletic Association, Spectrum Youth and Family Services, Generator Burlington, United Way of Northwest Vermont, Leadership Champlain, and VT State Employees Credit Union. He is the 2019 recipient of the Peter Clavelle Award for service to the community and received the 2011 Rising Star Award by VT Business Magazine.

Effective, Inclusive Trail Descriptions

Incomplete and incorrect information is oftentimes the first barrier that potential trail users encounter when trying to determine what trail to visit. This presentation will provide suggestions for making trail communications more welcoming and informative so that potential visitors can better identify the outdoor experiences they want. Participants are encouraged to bring a description of a trail, trail system, park, or water access site to review and edit during the webinar.

Stephen Engle, Community Graphics

Steve Engle directs Community Geographics, which for 20 years has been providing a range of mapping support services to public interest groups. Raised in Putney but currently residing in Denver, Colorado, Steve oversees Community Geographics’ diverse operations which are heavily focused on outdoor recreation, conservation, tourism, and natural resources management within rural communities. He has been actively supporting the Trail Access Hub project and, for the last ten years, helping to maintain and expand the Trail Finder website, efforts that share the common goal of increasing access to the outdoors for a wider community of users.

Winter Safety & Avalanch Awareness

It’s never too early to start thinking about snow in the mountains. Join Kevin Studley as he presents on avalanche awareness and winter safety. As an avalanche forecaster for the Forest Service in McCall, Idaho, Kevin will share his knowledge and experience avalanche forecasting for public lands. Some topics that we’ll discuss include how to read an avalanche forecast, red flags and what to look for in the mountains, and what should you keep in your pack.

Kevin Studley, VT Forests, Parks, & Recreation |

Kevin Studley serves at the seasonal Trail Coordinator in FPR forestry district 5- the tri-county Northeast Kingdom region. Originally from Massachusetts, Kevin now lives in McCall, Idaho in the winter where he works as an avalanche forecaster for the US Forest Service. He has helped manage trails in the Northeast Kingdom as Trail Coordinator for the past 4 summers.

"So you want to build a pool"

Join Ray in talking about all things involved with building a pool. Having completed a project in Winooski recently, Ray is here to share his project and answer questions to help make the pool building process easier for those thining about building a municipal pool.

Ray Coffey, Director, City of Winooski Community Services

Ray Coffey Ray Coffey serves as the Director of the Winooski Community Services department. He is also serving as the current chair of the Vermont Recreation and Parks Association Executive Committee.

Doing More with Less: Software that Saves Staff Time

What if your Parks and Rec software worked like Amazon—fast, intuitive, and built for busy people? In this speed session, discover how we’re bringing the simplicity of the online shopping cart to the world of program registration, facility reservations, memberships, Point of Sale, and daily staff workflows. Learn how a modern, streamlined interface can help your team spend less time clicking and more time serving your community.

Reed Pelliconi , Kaizen Labs

Block 4

1:45 - 2:45 pm

Gateway I

Northstar I

Gateway II

Northstar II

Escapade I & II

Move Forward Together Vermont: Let's work on Stewardship!

Following an 18-month planning process with input from over 2,500 people, Move Forward Together Vermont is implementing priority actions for Stewardship to strengthen Vermont’s outdoor recreation economy over the next five years and beyond. Join the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) to review priority actions, share success stories from your work, inform a set of measurement metrics to monitor our progress and identify gaps/opportunities to implementation.

Jackie Dagger, Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC) Program Manager

Jackie Dagger Jackie serves as the Program Manager for the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative (VOREC). In this role, she develops critical relationships between state agencies and public / private stakeholders working within Vermont’s outdoor recreation landscape. Her passion is fueled by a love for the outdoors, and she enjoys exploring her favorite places on skis, by foot or paddle and climbing up rocks. In addition to holding a Master’s of Environment and Community Planning from Antioch University Seattle, Jackie holds a BA in Anthropology from George Washington University and a Certificate in Planning for Effective Public Participation from the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2).

The Privilege of Privilege

Delve into the profound impact and responsibility that accompanies privilege in this eye-opening session. Explore the different facets of privilege, using insightful experiences as a lens. This session promises to be a powerful journey into how positions of privilege can be leveraged as voices for those not in the room, fostering inclusivity and equity across all areas of life. Participants will leave equipped with actionable insights on how to embrace and utilize their privilege for positive change in their communities and beyond.

Jason Elissalde, Vice President, Next Practice Partners

Jason Elissalde, Jason has nearly 25 years’ experience in training, development, and management both in the private and public sector. Within his work in the public sector with organizations such as Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and Target; Jason would lead multiple teams and processes; receiving awards and commendations for his work in customer service, operational excellence, data analytics and fiscal growth. He would finally find his “Why” in his seven plus years at Willamalane Park and Recreation District, where he was a key part of their National Gold Medal winning team and take the lead in their, now, successful CAPRA accreditation process. He championed the District’s workplace culture, with a focus on staff development and a “mission” focused approach to problem solving, goal setting, and personal accountability. A consultant, CAPRA accreditation visitor and a passionate Disney fan (ask him about his Tinker Bell story someday) committed to being an ally for those not in the room, he routinely speaks nationally on workplace culture, change management, purpose driven leadership, and the importance of developing an emotional connection to the work we do and the communities we serve

NO More Suspensions! Dealing With Challenging Behaviors

No More Suspensions! Being disability-inclusive takes effort. This session explores working with families, effective intake processes, staff training, and managing challenging behaviors. Attendees will learn tools to reduce or eliminate suspensions, focusing on strategies for success. Conclude with with a demonstration on distinguishing between meltdowns and tantrums and handling each effectively, leading to better outcomes for both the participant and staff.

Lisa Drennan, MERGE

Lisa Drennan Lisa has dedicated her career to fostering inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Starting at New England Village, she advanced from direct support professional to designing the Sollar Wellness Center. At the South Shore YMCA, she expanded her impact as the Association Director of Inclusion. Nationally recognized, she co-chaired Y-USA’s Diverse Abilities Working Group. In 2018, Lisa founded MERGE Inclusion Consulting, offering training and guidance to help community organizations create truly inclusive spaces. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to ensuring everyone has a place to belong.

Increasing trail accessiblity in ecologically sensitive areas

While increasing accessibility of trails may seem at odds with protecting sensitive ecological areas, with proper planning accessible features can provide improved ecological outcomes. Zapata Courage will discuss the considerations that should be incorporated when recreating in and around wetlands and what types of activities/projects may require a wetland permit. Lynn McNamara will present an example of constructing an accessible boardwalk Eshqua Bog ten years ago and the recreational and ecological outcomes they’ve seen since. .

Lynn McNamara, The Nature Conservancy, Montpelier, VT

Lynn McNamara Lynn McNamara is the Stewardship Director for The Nature Conservancy, overseeing the management and monitoring of all their conserved lands across Vermont. She has stewarded some of these special places since early in her career as an AmeriCorps member nearly 20 years ago. This connection to place has shaped her career and passion for connecting people to nature.

Half Baked Ideas

This session is centered around the creation of a culture of empowerment in staff through a collaborative workshopping process with your team. Emphasizing the importance of creative recreating, fostering growth and embracing a workplace where half baked ideas ultimately lead to benefit our communities.

Jon Kazanjian & Nick Campion, Watertown & Danvers, MA Recreation

Jon Kazanjian Kaz is the Assistant Director of Recreation for the City of Watertown. Prior to that, he spent seven years as a Program Coordinator in Littleton, where he developed a wide range of successful and inclusive community programs. Before entering the field of recreation, Kaz was a stay-at-home dad for 13 years, raising his two boys. During school breaks, he created “Camp Kaz,” a homegrown program for his sons and their friends that sparked his passion for recreation and inspired his career change. Earlier in his professional life, Kaz worked for a decade as a Superintendent on the Big Dig in Boston. In 2025, he was honored with the Program Outreach Award at the MRPA Conference for his innovative “Adult Recess” program. Kaz’s true passion lies in creating fun, welcoming experiences that bring people together through recreation.

Nick Campion Nick Campion is the Assistant Recreation Director for the Town of Danvers, MA and previously served as the Recreation Supervisor for the City of Somersworth, NH. Nick is currently the President Elect of MRPA, and additionally serves as a board member on various committees in his hometown of Exeter, NH. Nick holds a bachelor’s degree in sports management and a master’s in public administration. He is passionate about building a positive team culture and embracing new ideas and changes in pursuit of a more efficient and equitable organization.

Block 5

3:00 - 4:00 pm

Gateway I

Northstar I

Gateway II

Northstar II

Escapade I & II

Recreation Data Deep Dive

In 2024, FPR and CRO gathered statistically significant data on recreation use and priorities for the first time ever. This data is open to be used by recreation organizations, municipalities and researchers. Find out what we learned about Vermonter's recreation activities and priorities and how you can use the data to inform your planning, grant writing and more! Could Jackie and Claire combine their MFTV presentations into one?

Claire Polfus, Recreation Program Manager, State of Vermont

Claire Polfus Claire works with a wide variety of recreation partners and agency staff to support and improve outdoor recreation across Vermont. She has work experience in recreation management, communications, and program development as well a BA in Environmental Studies from Middlebury College and an MS in Natural Resources from the Ecological Planning program at UVM. She started working with FPR in 2022. When she’s not working, she particularly enjoys riding, gliding, and tromping through the woods, exploring new places, tending her garden, drinking strong coffee, and reading good books..

Trail Sustainability: Water Management for Trails: (Double session ends 4:40)

The most core component to sustainable trails, especially in our changing climate in Vermont, is being able to effectively manage how water interacts with a trail. Originally designed as a training for trails professionals, in this shortened version of the workshop we will start in the classroom looking at the basic theories of water management on trails, then spend time in the field with practical applications identifying trail “watersheds” and how to manage them to protect and maintain trails or durably construct new trails. Please be prepared for both time inside and walking around outside during this session. This workshop will also introduce and apply the new VMBA Best Management Practices for Trail Maintenance and Construction and the new Trail Skills Competencies for Construction and Maintenance from PTBA/American Trails

Mariah Keagy, Sinuosity Trail Designer

Mariah Keagy Mariah is a trail planner/designer with Sinuosity, a small Vermont-based firm specializing in trail planning, design and construction. Mariah has worked on trails since 1996 on the club, state and federal levels. She currently serves on the boards of the Green Mountain Club, Professional Trail Builders Association, and Trails and Greenways Council. Mariah has recently been working on workforce and education projects to professionalize the trail industry both in Vermont and on a national scale through projects such as creating: trail skills competency frameworks, Trail Technician occupational exam, best management practices, and trail training and course curriculum.

Expanding Equity and Access in Programming

Through 2024 South Burlington Rec Program (SBRP) has focused a heavy emphasis on expanding access and eliminating participation barriers to our programs and events. This has been done through free transportation, expanded meals programming, cultural programming, and eliminating costs to participate through sponsorships.

Adam Matth, Director, South Burlington, VT

Adam Matth Previously worked in professional sports and collegiate athletics prior to beginning with SBRP in November of 2023. Worked for the Vermont Lake Monsters, Lynchburg Hillcats, Houston Astros and University of Vermont.

A DOG, A MOUSE, AND SEARCHING FOR UNICORNS: LESSONS FROM 20+ YEARS OF RETAIL

What do a dog (Target), a mouse (Disney), and the search for unicorns (amazing team members) have in common? A treasure trove of hilarious, heartfelt, and hard-earned lessons from over two decades of leadership in companies like T-Mobile, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Blockbuster (yes, that Blockbuster), and Target. This session dives into the art and science of creating a thriving service culture, hiring, managing talent, achieving deliverables, and driving revenue. Packed with humor and inspiration, it explores how the magic of Disney and the grit of retail collide to reveal one undeniable truth: it’s all about people. Whether you're building a dream team, delivering unforgettable experiences, or chasing excellence, this session will leave you inspired, entertained, and ready to find your own unicorns.

Jason Elissalde, Vice President, Next Practice Partners

Jason Elissalde Jason has nearly 25 years’ experience in training, development, and management both in the private and public sector. Within his work in the public sector with organizations such as Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and Target; Jason would lead multiple teams and processes; receiving awards and commendations for his work in customer service, operational excellence, data analytics and fiscal growth. He would finally find his “Why” in his seven plus years at Willamalane Park and Recreation District, where he was a key part of their National Gold Medal winning team and take the lead in their, now, successful CAPRA accreditation process. He championed the District’s workplace culture, with a focus on staff development and a “mission” focused approach to problem solving, goal setting, and personal accountability. A consultant, CAPRA accreditation visitor and a passionate Disney fan (ask him about his Tinker Bell story someday) committed to being an ally for those not in the room, he routinely speaks nationally on workplace culture, change management, purpose driven leadership, and the importance of developing an emotional connection to the work we do and the communities we serve.

Community Connections through Nature Journaling

Nature journaling sparks curiosity, builds community connections, and invites new audiences into your programming and parks. In this workshop you will learn and practice easy nature journaling techniques and you will explore writing prompts and art techniques that enhance your inspiration to journal. Tips, tricks, and best practices will be the focus for planning your own nature journaling program, series of programs, or club. You will leave feeling confident about sharing what you learned with your community, and you will be empowered to help other people slow down and observe nature through a meaningful, shared experience. Simple nature journaling materials will be available. Please bring your curiosity and clothing layers appropriate for the weather.

Rebecca Roy, Interpretive Program Manager, Vermont State Parks

Rebecca Roy Rebecca Roy is the Interpretive Program Manager with Vermont State Parks, and she manages all the education and interpretive programming in parks across Vermont. Over her 21 years working with State Parks, she has reached over one million people with hands-on experiences connecting them to the natural and cultural resources of Vermont's rich landscape. Rebecca is passionate about making those connections and this year she earned her Certified Nature Journal Instructor credential which she is sharing with us in this session today.

Block 6

Speed Sessions

4:10 - 4:40 pm

Gateway I

Northstar I

Gateway II

Northstar II

Escapade I & II

Ask these Professionals Anything

Join a panel of speakers from various sectors including parks, recreation, & trails for an open discussion with any or all of them about questions you may have working in the field.

Luke O'Brien, Vermont FPR

Luke O'Brien Luke works with Vermont State Parks and is also a part of this year's conference committe helping to lead this panel discussion. Watch out for look as he will be recruiting a few more professionals for this session to join him!

Next Athletics Institute

Join Colin for a special, heartfelt discussion about his passion project - Next Athletics Institute.

Colin Drury, Director of Business Development, New England, Ben Shaffer Recreation

Colin Drury Colin has worked in the field of recreation for over 25 years from the community level up through the private sector, now as the New England Ben Shaffer Recreation Director of Business Development.

Killington Mountain operations

Join Amy Laramie to learn about challenges the ski industry faces, innovations, experiences joining the World Cup ski circuit, and much more.

Amy Laramie, VP of Brand Marketing and Events, Killington

Active Adults: Aging with Dignity Through Sports & Recreation

Vermont is the 2nd oldest state in the nation and our seniors are active as ever. Vermont sent 30 athletes to the National Senior Games in Des Moines, IA this past July/August, seniors are beginning to lift weights for the first time after the age of 65 and research being conducted by the Alzheimer's Association shows that strength training and cardio exercise have a direct impact on the prevalence of dementia diagnoses. During this quick conversation we will discuss types of events/programs that are available, where to begin and you will leave with resources for how to continue the conversation once you are back in your own community.

Jazmin Ferrari, Alzheimer's Association

Jazmin Ferrari With a masters degree in health and physical activity from the University of Pittsburgh and 15 years of experience in the strength and conditioning world, Jazmin works with individuals and organizations to figure out how THEY can best engage in an active lifestyle. Between her work as the Development Manager for the Alzheimer's Association - Vermont Chapter and ownership of LiftVT Warehouse Gym in Williston, VT, Jazmin spends the time she can promoting strength through the Senior Strength program at Williston Recreation, events with the Vermont Senior Games Association and providing special individual and small group classes for seniors who want to strength train. Want to get active but not sure where to start - she's your person!

Connections between Agritourism & Parks & Recreation

Collaboration between Parks & Recreation and Agritourism businesses can foster strong, vibrant communities. Parks and agritourism can both serve as engines for local economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social cohesion. This session will explore and discuss the idea of “Farm Parks” and the importance of connecting Agriculture and Parks & Recreation. Together, we will explore numerous ways parks and agritourism organizations can partner to create farm-based programs, cultural events, to educational workshops. We will discuss the importance of cross-sector collaboration in today's society, share examples of successful partnerships, and how the sectors overlap. This session will also explore the connection between indigenous farming practices and community living with the historical contributions of Native Americans to agriculture and parks in the United States. Attendees of this session should leave feeling inspired with a collaborative mindset to enhance community connections through agriculture, recreation, and shared spaces.

Jessica Brodie, Executive Director, Vermont Recreation & Parks Association