Parks and Youth Services Receive Three 2022 Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Awards of Excellence
The City of Toledo Parks and Youth Services team has made remarkable achievements in the 2022 Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Annual Awards of Excellence. These awards recognize organizations throughout Ohio that embody the vision, dedication, and demonstration of excellence in parks and recreation. The team won three prestigious awards in different categories, beating various organizations from across Ohio.In the Natural Resources & Conservation category, the City took third place. The team was recognized for their work on the Penn 7 Wetland Restoration project to restore and improve the wetland's ecological health while providing opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. This project aimed to preserve and enhance the natural habitat, providing an excellent space for Toledo residents to enjoy nature while also promoting environmental sustainability.
Parks and Youth Services took second place in the Management Innovation category for Engaging Youth Through Community Partners. The team was recognized for involving City youth in the City's recreational activities and fostering a sense of community and belonging among the youth like the Youth Advisory Board, which brings a youth perspective and helps with the decision-making regarding various aspects of the City park system.Lastly, the team won the third place in the Health & Wellness Programs & Events category for their Let's Get Moving initiative. Let's Get Moving is a community-wide walking program designed to promote health and wellness. The 10 weeks or 20 optional walk weeks are in City parks around Toledo and include celebrity walkers.
These awards highlight the team's dedication to making a difference and improving the quality of life in Toledo. It is a testament to the impact that parks and recreation can have on a community's well-being. The City of Toledo Parks and Youth Services team has set a high bar for excellence in the parks and recreation industry, and their achievements are something that the team should be proud of.
"We are extremely proud and honored to have won three awards at the 2022 Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Annual Awards of Excellence," Jacqueline Johnson, Administrative Specialist II with the Department of Parks and Youth Services, said. "Placing second and third in different categories is a remarkable achievement for us as a department and reflects our commitment to excellence in all areas of our work. We are thrilled to have our efforts recognized at the state level and look forward to continuing to provide exceptional services to our community." GREAT JOB Department of Parks and Youth Services!
