Every evaluation training will tell you to start by defining what you want to evaluate, then building your program to measure those things, and then analyzing data. In the recreation world, that’s not always possible. Sometimes you take over a program mid-stream and you need to reverse engineer your evaluation so you can tell your story. Using a state trail grant program as a case study, this session will walk you through tips and tricks for how to look back at the information you have to assess your impact.

Learn about upcoming recreation funding opportunities from the state! This session will share information about multiple grant programs that fund everything from trails to playgrounds to pools to trails and more! We'll cover timeline, eligible activities, and funding amounts for each program presented so you can identify which grant program is right for your project, plus share some grant-writing resources.

Strong, durable outdoor economies are built on intentional partnerships amongst the agencies, non-profit organizations, municipalities, volunteer groups, and businesses who get us outdoors and drive economic activity. We will introduce participants to the recently-launched Vermont CORE Toolkit, diving into tools intended to help users gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystem of local outdoor economy partners in Vermont. Participants will come away with actionable case studies and next steps to tap into local partner networks.

Building a strong digital presence is vital for community participation without draining resources. This session explores Google, Facebook, and Instagram tools to effectively engage your audience. Learn the difference between social media and advertising, plus best practices for parks and recreation departments. We will cover essential "must-do" strategies and pitfalls to avoid. Gain actionable knowledge on targeted ads and ROI to create a more efficient, impactful online presence for your community.

Discover how partnerships, artificial intelligence, and geospatial technology are helping trail organizations, parks, and recreation leaders build stronger, more connected outdoor communities. This session explores real-world strategies for improving mapping accuracy, engaging volunteers, supporting asset management, and turning trail data into actionable insights. Learn how collaborative technology can strengthen stewardship, improve decision-making, and help organizations plan for the future together.