The Georgia Recreation and Park Association recognized Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation as the number one park agency in the state serving populations of 150,001 during the group’s annual conference in November. The association credited Gwinnett’s diversity and growth in addition to public-private partnerships, alternative funding mechanisms, creative planning, design and development, and resident input. The 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.

Parks and Recreation took home two additional 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 Parks and Recreation’s community partners. Hi-Hope’s volunteers have provided more than 6,600 hours of service over an 11-year span. Doris Warpole was recognized for her service to Gwinnett Senior Softball League for the past 14 years and her recent volunteer work with the Gwinnett Senior Golden Games.