In 2020 we were unable to host our celebratory event, so this year, we are accepting nominees who’ve done exceptional industry work over the past 24 months! This event is being sponsored by the San Diego County Parks Society and supported by County Supervisor and Chair Nathan Fletcher.

Candidates for the annual Parks and Recreation Champion Awards program may be individuals, community leaders or representatives who meet the following criteria:

• Live and work in San Diego County (efforts submitted cannot be a part of one’s job)
• Have a proven track record of outstanding volunteer service and success
• Work hard (and well) to bring an idea or program to reality that can improve the quality of life for a particular group or the full community
• Be an advocate for local parks, regional preserves, recreational programming and/or outdoor education
• Be a leader who motivates people and inspires others to act, who can serve as a spokesperson for initiatives that support parks, preserves, recreation and education
• Rally behind programs that promote sustainability and conservation

Learn more by reading articles highlighting our  2019 winners,  2018 winners, this recap of the 2017 event, and by watching  footage of the inaugural event in 2016. Additional info: sdparks.org/champion.

San Diego features a diverse network of parks, preserves, waterways, community centers, playgrounds and cultural and historic sites. Plans are always in play to enhance recreational offerings, and local parks and recreation teams rely on volunteers to take those efforts to the next level. This is an opportunity to honor the efforts of individuals who strive to bring positive change to the world around them, one park patron at a time.

Do you know someone who’s taken this task to heart? Nominate them, today! The process is quick, and the rewards are well-deserved. The EXTENDED deadline is 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021.

Nomination Packet

Nomination Mail and Email:
County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation
c/o Marketing Department
5500 Overland Ave. #410
San Diego, CA 92123
jessica.geiszler@sdcounty.ca.gov

Submissions will be reviewed by a panel of judges, and recognitions will be given in several categories – in addition to the grand prize: 2020-2021 Parks and Recreation Champion. The award ceremony is slated to take place Tuesday, Nov. 2, at Heritage County Park, located at 2454 Heritage Park Row in the Old Town neighborhood of San Diego.