PEORIA (April 21, 2022) – Every April the Peoria Park District celebrates National Volunteer Month. "While we celebrate the vital roles that volunteers play daily, April gives us the opportunity to honor them in a special way," stated Peoria Park District Executive Director, Emily Cahill.
As the month nears close, the Peoria Park District was able to host a volunteer appreciation event for all the volunteers that assist with parks and trails maintenance, event support and daily operational endeavors.
The Peoria Park District Board of Trustees also had an opportunity to honor a few special volunteers with two annual awards. On April 20th, the Board of Trustees honored John Martin with the Landen Memorial Volunteer Service Award and The Peoria Alumni Chapter Kappa Alpha Psi with the Rhodell E. Owens Distinguished Group Community Service Award.
Landen Memorial Volunteer Service Award
The Board of Trustees established the Landen Memorial Volunteer Service Award, in recognition of Frances "Pat" Landen, a dedicated long-time volunteer. The award honors an individual who has voluntarily given of his or her time, talents and skills, thereby assisting the Peoria Park District in the accomplishment of its overall goals.
John Martin has served as the co-chair of the Peoria Irish Fest- Erin Feis, since its inauguration. Serving as the co-chair for the event has afforded him the responsibility and opportunity to have a hand in all aspects of the festival. The festival has been a staple of the Peoria RiverFront cultural festivals for 24 years.
"John's leadership qualities have shown over the years and truly speak for themselves. In late 2021, John announced that he would be taking a backseat with Irish Fest moving forward. I have no doubt that his presence and impact will be felt for many years to come. His contributions are very much appreciated by our staff and I believe they define what this service award is all about. I, and our entire Events team, are truly fortunate for John's commitment to serving his community,” stated Nick Conrad, Supervisor of PPD Events.
Rhodell E. Owens Distinguished Group Community Service Award
Rhodell E. Owens, Director of Parks and Recreation for the District from 1945-1981, left a legacy of service to the community by his involvement with cultural and civic organizations.
This award is presented to a local group which has made an outstanding contribution to the Peoria Park District through special donations of dollars, volunteer work, services, etc., and/or ongoing support on a special project for the advancement of parks and recreation that improves the quality of life within the community.
The Peoria Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi has long been a partner and friend of the Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum. They are an organization that is always ready to offer their time and energy, whether that is volunteering at an event, joining a committee, or stepping up to lead a program.
"Kappa Alpha Psi takes time to get to know our mission, which is to empower kids to become explorers and creators through play, and do their very best to champion it. They offer their helping hands, ideas, and support without asking for anything in return. The PlayHouse is proud to partner with an organization that always shows up in more than one way," stated Rebecca Shulman, Director of the Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum.
If you are interested in volunteering for the Peoria Park District,
please click here!
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