Every day, in communities across the country, the people of parks and recreation are providing essential services and making their communities better places to live, work and play. Because of their critical work, NRPA wants to shift the narrative of parks and recreation — and we can't think of a better time to start this movement than Park and Recreation Month. This July, we will begin to redefine the field of parks and recreation as an essential, vital necessity by sharing how park and recreation professionals are frontline staff, confronting our most pressing health, environmental and social challenges. This year's theme is "We Are Parks and Recreation," and we want to highlight the diversity of park and recreation professionals and showcase their selfless work. It’s Park and Recreation Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by lifting up the people who make it happen all year long. You can join us in celebrating throughout the month by sharing your park and recreation story using the hashtag #WeAreParksAndRec. (www.nrpa.org/events/july/)