Building Belonging: Neurodivergent Perspectives in Parks and Recreation (Part 2) — Episode 154

As you may recall, our final episode of 2023 was part one of our conversation around neurodiversity and parks and recreation. It was a wonderful conversation with Kande Jones, the Development Director for Mulvane Recreation Commission, and Dave McDaniel, the Operations Coordinator for City of Mobile Parks and Recreation about their experience as neurodivergent individuals. Well, we're finally back with part two of the conversation!

The inspiration for these episodes came from a 2023 NRPA Annual Conference session, "Neurodiversity and Inclusive Workplaces: Insights from Park and Recreation Professionals." The session explored the individual strengths neurodivergent professionals bring to their work and the strategies and accommodations that have helped them succeed, as well as ways to find workplace champions and allies.

The presenters also offered suggestions for how organizations can better support and include neurodiverse individuals in the field in a number of ways, and we're excited to chat with two more of the presenters on the show today: Tammy Schwab, manager of education and outreach for the resource management division of Fairfax County Park Authority in Virginia, and John McGovern, principal-in-charge for The WT Group, LLC Accessibility Practice.

Tune in to our conversation below to hear from Kande and Dave as they share their experience as neurodivergent individuals and how it relates to their careers in parks and recreation. You'll also learn:

·        How a career in parks and recreation can contribute to a positive working environment for neurodivergent individuals

·        Some of the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in the workplace (and solutions!)

·        How leaders, coworkers and peers can create a culture of belonging and safety for neurodivergent staff

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