BROWARD COUNTY, FL - At its August 31st Innovative Programming
awards ceremony, the Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA) presented a
Community Building Award to the Special Populations Section of Broward County
Parks and Recreation. The award recognizes Special Populations for its more
than 35 years of planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating a variety
of year-round recreation and leisure programs, special events, and services to
meet the interests and needs of children, teens, adults, and seniors with disabilities,
as well as military veterans with and without disabilities.
Even the COVID-19
pandemic didn't stop Special Populations from serving its community, keeping
them engaged and connected so they could continue to improve their social
skills, overall mental health, and physical fitness. Despite the cancellation
of some programs, other programs were offered virtually, in person using
designated precautions, or in a hybrid format. In fiscal year 2020-21, there
were 66 programs and 20 special events, reaching a total of 2,983 participants
and their parents, guardians, and program staff.
The application
provided a comprehensive overview of Special Populations and detailed how the
section met the award criteria of Innovation, Strategic Alignment, and Inclusion.
The FRPA annually
recognizes park and recreation agencies, employees, volunteers, and partners
that have made an impact on their community. Nominees must submit information
and details supporting their nomination, and a volunteer committee made up of peers
reviews and rates the submissions. The awards presentation takes place at the
annual FRPA Conference in August. Winners are presented with a plaque and
recognition through the FRPA Journal. For more information, visit FRPA.org/awards.
Recreation.
Preservation. Education.
About the Parks and Recreation Division
Broward
County Parks manages almost 6,500 acres, encompassing nearly 50 regional parks
and nature centers, neighborhood parks, and natural areas at various stages of
development. Hours and fees vary by location. Visit Broward.org/Parks for details. Individuals with
disabilities requiring accommodations in order to participate in programs,
services, and activities must contact the Special Populations Section at 954-357-8170
or TTY 954-537-2844 at least five business days prior to the scheduled meeting
or event.
DATE:
September 2, 2022
GENERAL MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Mills
Parks and Recreation Division
PHONE: 954-357-8115
CONTACT FOR
THIS PROGRAM/EVENT:
SpecialPopulations@Broward.org, 954-357-8170