Overview:

The prestigious Wild Rose Award celebrates individuals or community service organizations for their exceptional dedication to the advancement of recreation and parks, whether in a professional, non-professional, or philosophical capacity. This award recognizes outstanding contributions and long-term service in support of recreation or parks initiatives at the provincial level.

Eligibility

• Must have 15+ years of outstanding contribution to the recreation and parks sector. 
• Communities include: 
• Municipalities
• Not for Profit Organizations
• Business
• Individuals or Groups
• Alberta Recreation & Parks Association membership, or past membership, is encouraged and may be prioritized in the selection process

The individual or community must:

• Have made a significant and measurable impact on the advancement of recreation or parks endeavors
• Demonstrate a dedication to the field of recreation and parks through long-term service, commitment, and involvement in relevant initiatives or organizations
• Demonstrate their impact at the provincial level, showcasing initiatives or achievements that have benefited communities and residents across 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: 

• Significant Contribution: The nominated individual or organization must have made a significant and measurable impact on the advancement of recreation and/or parks endeavors. This may include but is not limited to, innovative programming, advocacy efforts, community engagement, or infrastructure development.
• Provincial Impact: Successful nominees will have demonstrated their impact at the provincial level, showcasing initiatives or achievements that have benefited communities and residents across Alberta. While local and regional contributions are recognized, nominees must have made a meaningful impact on a provincial scale.
• Dedication and Long-Term Service: Nominees should demonstrate a dedication to the field of recreation and parks through long-term service, commitment, and involvement in relevant initiatives or organizations. This may include years of service in leadership roles, ongoing volunteerism, or sustained advocacy efforts.

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