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2027 Special Park Districts Forum

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Each year, leaders and innovators from across the parks and recreation profession gather for the Special Park Districts Forum (SPDF) - a one-of-a-kind event designed to foster meaningful connections among industry peers. Over four days, attendees examine trends and emerging issues, share best practices and build their professional networks. 

SPDF 2027 is located in Cincinnati, Ohio, and hosted by Great Parks of Hamilton County. Unlike a traditional conference format, SPDF invites attendees directly into the field to explore Great Parks’ greenspaces and facilities, observe operations firsthand and engage in interactive, site-based learning. 

2027 Special Park Districts Forum

Host: Great Parks of Hamilton County
Where: Cincinnati, Ohio
When: June 21-24, 2027

Early-Bird Registration: $699
After Early-Bird: $799

Presenting Sponsor

Dinner Sponsor, Welcome Reception at TQL Stadium

DWA Recreation

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Since 1988, DWA Recreation has partnered with parks and recreation agencies, schools, faith communities, landscape architects, and contractors to create exceptional recreation spaces. As the exclusive GameTime representative for Ohio and Kentucky, we provide playgrounds, inclusive play, splash pads, fitness, shade, shelters, site furnishings, and sports amenities. Our experienced, certified team delivers safe, accessible, lasting solutions from planning through installation.

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Elite Sponsors

Dinner Sponsor, Closing Banquet & Celebration at Rhinegeist Brewing

Strand Associates

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Strand Associates, Inc.® is a nationally recognized, multidisciplinary engineering firm, employing more than 500 professionals across 12 offices, bringing local expertise and national resources to every service we provide. While we take pride in delivering innovative, high-quality projects, we are most grateful for the partnerships we have developed that enable us to help our clients and their communities succeed. We are proud to serve as the Engineering Partner for Great Parks of Hamilton County!

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Dinner Sponsor, Cincinnati Zoo

39Foward

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39Forward is a Cincinnati-based advisory firm helping organizations make the high-stakes decisions behind their biggest moves. We clarify the real decision, challenge assumptions, surface options and tradeoffs, and stay engaged from early thinking through delivery. Our work spans strategy, people, place, and major capital investments. The goal is simple: give leaders the clarity and confidence to make the call, then help turn it into lasting impact.

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About the Special Park Districts Forum 

The Special Park Districts Forum welcomes community leaders and changemakers from across North America, including directors, planners, operations managers, educators, board members, commissioners and other decision-makers committed to elevating public parks and open spaces. 

What Is a Special Park District?

Special park districts are organizations dedicated to managing parks, providing recreation opportunities, protecting natural resources and preserving open spaces. They differ from traditional park and recreation agencies, operating as independent government entities with their own governing boards, and often managing expansive acreage, larger teams and initiatives that serve a broader regional audience. 

About Great Parks 

Since 1930, Great Parks of Hamilton County has been Southwest Ohio’s regional leader in conservation, trail development and nature-based experiences. Protecting more than 18,000 acres of open space, Great Parks safeguards the region’s natural resources and preserves its native biodiversity. Through thoughtful stewardship, Great Parks pairs its conservation work with a broad range of outdoor activities, ensuring its greenspaces remain accessible to the public. With extensive trails, expansive waterways and year-round programs and special events for all ages, Great Parks removes barriers to the natural world and inspires exploration. 

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a boy on a blue and white playground
a couple of people in a rope park
a man and woman walking on a path by a body of water
a wooden path through a forest
a bird flying over bushes
a boy riding a bike on a trail in the woods
a group of people in kayaks on a lake
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Put Your Brand at the Center of the Conversation

The 2027 Special Park Districts Forum is your opportunity to connect with influential decision-makers, build meaningful relationships, and demonstrate your support for the future of parks and public spaces. Ready to get involved? Reach out to the Great Parks team to explore sponsorship opportunities and reserve your place.

Check out our SPDF 2027 Sponsorship Packet.

To Become a Sponsor

Contact LeAnne Anklan, Director of Donor Engagement: [email protected] or 513-728-4517.