City of Westerville Parks and Recreation Department Named “Best in the Nation”, Wins National Gold Medal Award

September 27, 2007

The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) announced the winners for the 2007 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management during a live presentation at NRPA’s Annual Congress and Exposition in Indianapolis, Indiana on September 26. The Westerville Parks and Recreation Department was named National Gold Medal winner in Class IV, which represents cities with populations from 25,001 to 50,000.

“Class IV is one of the most competitive and difficult classes to win”, said Jody Stowers, Westerville Parks and Recreation Director.  “To be named the National Gold Medal winner in this class is an incredible honor. It is a testament to the support and involvement of Westerville’s citizens in this effort to strive for excellence in park and recreation management.” The department also won the National Gold Medal in 2001 which meant the agency could not be considered for the award again until this year.

The National Gold Medals honor communities throughout the United States that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development, and agency recognition.  Each agency is judged on its ability to address the needs of those it serves through the collective energies of citizens, staff and elected officials. 

The Westerville Parks and Recreation Department currently manages over 500 acres of parkland with 39 parks and facilities and offers activities to residents and visitors of all ages. To find out more about the 2007 National Gold Medal Award, call Jody Stowers, Westerville Parks and Recreation Director, at (614) 901-6504. To find out more about Westerville’s quality programs, facilities, services and events, visit www.westerville.org or call the Community Center Hotline at (614) 901-6500.

For more information about the Gold Medal Awards, visit the National Recreation and Park Association website at: www.nrpa.org.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

The department offers a variety of leisure services and programs to residents and visitors of all ages and abilities. Each year, more than 500,000 registrants participate in department programs which range from preschool, parent/child, youth, teen and adult to senior adult programs in a variety of interest areas such as athletics, arts, crafts, fitness, wellness and general interest.

The department also maintains an extensive park system - 504 acres with 39 parks and facilities. From getting fit at the 96,600 square foot Community Center, to bird watching along the banks of the Alum Creek River, to swimming outdoors with neighborhood pals at Highlands Pool, to walking or biking on Westerville’s 18-miles of leisure paths and bike trails, the department’s park system offers recreational opportunities for everyone.

To find out more about the Westerville Parks and Recreation Department visit www.westerville.org.