Each year, the New York State Recreation and Park Society presents a series of awards that are considered a prestigious honor, recognizing individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to parks and recreation across New York State. Consider nominating the dedicated behind-the-scenes professionals and the creative, inspirational leaders who make a difference every day. These awards provide a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the diverse individuals who help ensure New York’s parks, recreation, and therapeutic recreation services operate at their highest level.

Only current members of the New York State Recreation and Park Society are eligible to nominate qualified candidates. Nominations for non-members of NYSRPS are accepted, unless otherwise indicated by specific Award criteria. A deserving recipient may receive the same award once every 10 years. Nominations submitted by non-members will be disqualified. 

The awards are presented at the Annual Awards Presentation, held each year during the Annual Conference. It is required that all nominations include images of the individual, organization, publication, facility, or program, and will be included in the Awards Presentation.

Any regional groups submitting nominations must be submitted together, in one package, and each entry must be accompanied by the official nomination form of NYSRPS.