(City of Avondale/Submitted)
By Joe McHugh | West Valley View
The Avondale Parks, Recreation and Libraries Department took home two awards at the Arizona Parks and Recreation (APRA) Conference 2024. The department received the Partnership Award and the Outstanding Facility Award, recognizing its exceptional contributions to community engagement and facility excellence.
The Partnership Award was awarded for the department’s collaboration on the Tres Rios Nature Festival. The event featured a variety of music, wildlife and games for the community to enjoy at its new location of Estrella Mountain Regional Park.
Organizers were faced with the challenge of relocating the event due to flood damage. The department, in partnership with the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation and other organizations, successfully transitioned the festival to its new location. This partnership, including Maricopa County’s waiver of entrance fees, ensured the event’s continuation and showcased a shared commitment to environmental education and community engagement.