Overview

The Barbara Hill Merit Award is a prestigious honour bestowed by the Alberta Recreation & Parks Association (ARPA) that celebrates the significant contributions of individuals or groups to the advancement of recreation and parks development in Alberta. Named in memory of Barbara Hill, a dedicated leader and volunteer with ARPA for over 35 years, this award recognizes  individuals or groups who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and impact in furthering the goals of the Association.

Eligibility

• Must have 10+ years of volunteer experience with ARPA
• Individuals or Groups include: 
• Practitioners
• Volunteer Leaders
• ARPA Board Members
• ARPA Committee Members
• Others who have made continuous contributions to ARPA in a volunteer capacity
• Alberta Recreation & Parks Association membership, or past membership, is encouraged and may be prioritized in the selection process

The individual or group must:

• Have exhibited exemplary leadership and dedication to the advancement of recreation and parks development in Alberta
• Have made significant and tangible contributions towards furthering the goals and mission of ARPA
• Demonstrate a lasting and sustainable impact on the recreation and parks sector in Alberta

After you apply:

The ARPA Awards and Scholarships Committee with representation from all aspects of the recreation and parks sector and across the province will select the award recipient. The committee will evaluate the nominations by rating: 

• Leadership and Dedication: Nominees must have exhibited exemplary leadership and dedication to the advancement of recreation and parks development in Alberta, reflecting the spirit of Barbara Hill's longstanding commitment to ARPA.
• Impactful Contributions: The nominated individual or group should have made significant and tangible contributions towards furthering the goals and mission of ARPA, enhancing the quality and accessibility of recreation and parks opportunities for Albertans.
• Innovative Initiatives: Successful nominees will have spearheaded innovative initiatives or projects that have positively impacted the recreation and parks sector in Alberta, demonstrating creativity, vision, and forward-thinking approaches.
• Long-term Impact: The nominated individual or group's contributions should demonstrate a lasting and sustainable impact on the recreation and parks sector in Alberta, leaving a legacy of positive change and improvement.

The Alberta Recreation & Parks Association presents the award during the ARPA Conference & Energize Workshop. Award recipients will receive:

• Recognition at the ARPA Conference President’s Award Dinner 
• Two tickets to the President’s Award Dinner, option to purchase additional tickets available 
• Mileage reimbursement and 1 night hotel accommodations to attend the President’s Award Dinner 
• A keepsake to display in their facilities