SOUTH BEND, Ind. – South Bend Venues Parks & Arts has been chosen as a finalist for the 2021 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.

The National Gold Medal Awards program honors communities in the United States that demonstrate excellence in parks and recreation through long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development and agency recognition.

“We know local communities, state park systems, and military installations worldwide met the challenge of being responsive to the changing demands of delivering services during the COVID 19 pandemic,” said Jane H. Adams, Executive Director for the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. “Park visitors and program participants have come to rely upon their service provider for physical, mental, and emotional support during this pandemic.  The Academy congratulates each Finalist for their management excellence during this unprecedented time.”

South Bend VPA is a finalist in the Class III category for agencies in cities with populations between 75,001-150,000.

The department will compete against three other finalists in their class for the Grand Plaque, which will be awarded later this month.

“To be recognized as a finalist for the National Gold Medal Award is a true honor,” said Aaron Perri, Venues Parks & Arts Executive Director. “This is not only a reflection of our quality experiences and spaces, it’s also a well-deserved tribute to a dedicated group of city employees and a very supportive community.”

Click here to learn more about the National Gold medal Award Program.