The CPRP certification is granted to individuals employed in the recreation, park resources and leisure services professions who meet the eligibility requirements—including a combination of higher education and/or work experience—and who successfully complete the national CPRP examination. The examination tests knowledge in all aspects of general administration, programming and operations management for parks and recreation. CPRP certifications are valid for a period of two years, and professionals who wish to re-apply are required to complete professional continuing education unit requirements or equivalent academic course work.
"We're very proud that these employees took the initiative to achieve this certification," says Debbie Bilbrey-Honsowetz, Canton Leisure Services Director. "It is hard work and dedication like this that contributes to the on-going success of our Department and ultimately enables us to better meet the changing needs of our community."
Individuals certified as CPRPs meet high standards of education, expertise and experience established in the field for park and recreation professionals, and many agencies recommend or require CPRP certification when hiring for professional positions.
Hohenberger has worked in Parks and Recreation for over 15 years and has been in his current role as Operations Manager with Canton Township for the past six years. Through his work with Canton Leisure Services, he currently oversees operations at several Leisure Services facilities, including the Summit on the Park community center, The Village Theater at Cherry Hill, The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center and Recreation services. Hohenberger also assists with oversight of golf operations. In addition, he has led development of initial business plans for the department and the cost recovery program, as well as training and development of Leisure Services staff. Hohenberger is currently a member of mParks (formerly known as Michigan Recreation and Park Association), presenting at numerous conferences and trade shows, and has previously served as its treasurer.
Since 2001, LaFever has worked in a variety of parks and recreation capacities with Canton Leisure Services and currently coordinates operations at several Canton Leisure Services facilities. In addition, LaFever and his staff are responsible for the planning and execution of Leisure Services large-scale special events. An mParks member since 2001, he has been a frequent presenter at the annual mParks Conference & Trade Show, a member of the Youth & Teens and Programming Committees, served as the mParks Michigan Youth Symposium Chair and was recognized as the organization’s New Professional of the Year in 2006. He is currently an mParks director at large.
The CPRP program is offered by the National Certification Board in coordination with NRPA and the CPRP Certification Committee. Hohenberger’s and LaFever’s recent certifications demonstrate the continued professional commitment shared by other Leisure Services staff members, including Debbie Bilbrey-Honsowetz and Jeanette Aiello.
For more information about the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification, please visit www.nrpa.org/cprp.