Story contact: Nazanin Weck
Resources and Marketing Coordinator
Office: 770.822.8866
nazanin.weck@gwinnettcounty.com

GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION
NAMED NUMBER ONE AGENCY IN THE STATE

(Lawrenceville, Ga., Nov. 10, 2016) – The Georgia Recreation and Park Association recognized Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation (GCPR) as the number one park agency in the state serving populations of 150,001 during the group’s annual conference held Nov. 7–10 in Athens, Ga. Gwinnett County is one of the fastest growing counties in the state and among the most culturally diverse in the Southeast. Gwinnett has risen to the challenge of serving a growing community and one that is becoming increasingly diverse through public-private partnerships, alternative funding mechanisms, creative planning, design and development and resident input. This award demonstrates excellence in citizen involvement and support systems, long-range planning, fiscal resource management, environmental stewardship, historic preservation, technological integration, program planning and assessment.
GCPR took home two other awards that highlight the importance of community partnerships and volunteer service. The State Volunteer Award was presented to Hi-Hope Service Center as one of GCPR’s community partners. Hi-Hope Service Center is a nonprofit organization that supports adults with developmental disabilities. They provide support to individuals by connecting them to opportunities for learning, work and leisure. These volunteers have provided over 600 hours per year for the last 11 years to GCPR totaling more than 6600 hours of service. Tina Fleming, Gwinnett County Department of Community Services Director said “these terrific individuals bring value and enrichment to the community and the lives of those around them through their service to parks and recreation.”
Another valuable volunteer was also recognized for the Athletic Network. Doris Warpole was recognized for her service to Gwinnett Senior Softball League for the past 14 years and more recently the Gwinnett Senior Golden Games. Doris has assisted in providing services that increased socialization, physical activity and mental health of over 550 seniors in Gwinnett County by having a place to play. Volunteer labor is a mainstay for GCPR, enabling the sustainability of current services and expanding both the quantity and diversity of services without exhausting the agency’s budget. GCPR would like to congratulate and thank the volunteers recognized at this event.
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Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation, a finalist for the national Gold Medal Award presented by the National Recreation and Park Association after winning it in 2008, provides high quality, broad-based parks, facilities, programs and services creating a sense of community, enabling a safe and secure environment, and enhancing Gwinnett’s quality of life.
Play * Live * Learn
gwinnettparks.com