Brutsché and Heron Earn National Certification for Parks and Recreation

Download this press release in PDF format

RESTON, VA — RCC staff members Karen Brutsché and Debbie Heron recently attained the status of Certified Park and Recreation Professionals (CPRP) as governed by the National Certification Board (NCB) and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

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.

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 these positions.

Brutsché joined RCC as the 55+ Program Director in 2011 and is responsible for facilitating enrichment activities, social events and day trips for Reston patrons who are 55 years and older. Her tenacious energy, intellect and passion for the job – as well as the people she works with and serves – have earned her the respect and gratitude of the Reston 55+ community.

Heron has been RCC’s Youth Director since 2005 and develops all social, enrichment and summer camp programs for children from infancy through sixth grade. Her creativity and careful attention to recreation trends and community needs keep RCC programs appealing and in high demand with parents and children alike.

Brutsché and Heron join three other RCC staff members who have previously earned this distinction:

·         Cheri Danaher, Arts Education Director (2006)

·         Brian Gannon, Facility Booking Manager (2010)

·         Eileen Boone, Leisure & Learning Director (2010)

“Karen joins RCC’s currently Certified Park and Recreation Professionals Eileen Boone, Cheri Danaher and Brian Gannon. The outstanding CPRP team members at Reston Community Center are at the heart of what makes our activities and facilities such high quality and welcoming experiences” said Leila Gordon, RCC Executive Director.

The National Recreation and Park Association is a national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people.  Through its network of 20,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy lifestyles, recreation initiatives, and conservation of natural and cultural resources.  For more information, visit www.nrpa.org.  For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrec-magazine.org.

About Reston Community Center

Each year RCC offers more than 2,000 positive, self-development experiences that enhance the quality of life for all people living and working in Reston. RCC provides a wide range of programs in arts, aquatics, enrichment and life-long learning. We also create and sustain community traditions through special events, outreach activities and facility rentals. To find the programs or events that are right for you, visit www.restoncommunitycenter.com or call 703-476-4500.

Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request. For further information, contact Reston Community Center at (703) 476-4500, Virginia Relay (800) 828-1120 (TTY) or visit the website at www.restoncommunitycenter.com. Reston Community Center is located at 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston, VA 20191. Reston Community Center is completely accessible to persons with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Enriching Lives. Building Community. ©