The mParks Community Service Awards recognize individuals and groups who show outstanding support to public recreation and park programs in their community: friends groups, department volunteers, and advocates.
Parks and recreation agencies are invited to nominate the partner groups and individuals who they believe deserve recognition.
NEW THIS YEAR:
Frontline/Customer Service
The Frontline/Customer Service Award recognizes the dedicated employees who create exceptional experiences for residents and visitors through outstanding service, professionalism, and commitment to their community. These individuals are often the first point of contact for the public and play an essential role in shaping positive interactions with parks and recreation services every day.
This award honors team members whose work may not fall within traditional parks and recreation roles but is critical to the success of their department. Whether greeting guests at a community or recreation center, assisting residents through a call center, operating concessions, maintaining facilities, supporting daily operations, or serving in another frontline role, these employees consistently go above and beyond to ensure programs, facilities, and services run smoothly.
Eligible nominees include full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees who demonstrate exceptional customer service, reliability, teamwork, and a positive attitude. Through their dedication, problem-solving, and willingness to serve others, these individuals make a lasting impact on their department, colleagues, and the communities they serve.
Rising Star
The Rising Star Award recognizes an exceptional emerging parks and recreation professional who, in a short period of time, has made a meaningful and lasting impact on their department, organization, and community. This award is intended for part-time, seasonal, temporary, or student intern employees who have demonstrated outstanding initiative, professionalism, and a passion for serving others.
Recipients consistently exceed expectations, embrace opportunities to learn, and make valuable contributions through their work, creativity, teamwork, and commitment to excellence. They bring fresh ideas, a positive attitude, and a willingness to go above and beyond, demonstrating the qualities of a future leader in the parks and recreation profession.
Only current mParks members are eligible to submit nominations. The maximum number of nominations is dependent on your organization type.
- Individual: One nomination
- Agency: Two nominations
- County: Three nominations
- Statewide Agency: Four nominations
2026 mParks Community Service Awards will be presented at your local events by members of the Inspire Committee. This will allow more members of your community to attend and celebrate your volunteers. Information on scheduling your presentation will be on the last page of this application.
Nominations are open Monday, August 3 - Friday, September 11.
Local Award Presentations will be held from September 13 to December 31, 2026.