| SARASOTA COUNTY – Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources (PRNR) received two awards from the Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA) in recognition of innovative programming and volunteer contributions. The FRPA Voluntary Service Individual Award was awarded to PRNR volunteer Terry Redman who has contributed more than 25 years of volunteer services with Friends of Sarasota County Parks, Knight Trail Park – Gun Range, Sarasota County Parks Advisory and Recreation Council, Sarasota County UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability – Florida Master Gardeners and other community organizations including Sertoma Club of Venice. This is the fifth year in a row that Sarasota County earned the FRPA Voluntary Service Individual Award, demonstrating the commitment community members have toward keeping Sarasota County’s parks and natural areas beautiful. “Terry is a shining example of a passionate, dedicated volunteer who has contributed so much to our parks system. We are very fortunate to have volunteers like him in our community,” said Nicole Rissler, PRNR Director. Terry Redman has been actively involved in leading the organization since its establishment in 2002, as the former president of Friends of Sarasota County Parks (FOSCP) for more than 16 years, and currently serves as the Secretary. During the last ten years, FOSCP has provided nearly 32,000 volunteer hours supporting county park projects and thousands of dollars in park enhancements and amenities. It’s a great honor to have been selected as the FRPA Volunteer of the Year award recipient. A large thank you to the dedicated Sarasota County parks staff and the other community volunteers for making this award possible,” said Redman.  PRNR’s Fire Fest was selected for the FRPA Innovative Programming Award in Environmental Sustainability and Resiliency. This award recognizes Sarasota County’s efforts to provide creative programs that expand community participation through education, leisure and participation.Fire Fest occurs annually at T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve and educates the community about the use of prescribed fire as a tool to manage the county’s native habitats and reduce the risk of wildfires. It features a unique combination of live prescribed fire demonstrations, educational hay wagon rides through the reserve, nature walks, exhibitors and a kids’ game zone. “Fire Fest is one of our signature events that is much loved by our community and always a lot of fun. Multiple departments and agencies collaborate to make it a special experience for residents of all ages and backgrounds to come and learn about prescribed fire and its importance for healthy ecosystems,” Rissler said. The Florida Recreation and Park Association annually awards park and recreation agencies, employees, volunteers, and partners that make an impact on their community. Nominations are reviewed by a volunteer committee and then peer-rated based on supporting details. More information on the FRPA awards program can be found at frpa.org. For more information or to register as a PRNR volunteer, call the Sarasota County Contact Center by dialing 311 or visit scgov.net. |