SOUTH BEND, Ind. - South Bend Venues Parks & Arts won the 2022 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.

The award recognizes the organization for its work in delivering outstanding park and recreation services in a fiscally sound way.

“To receive the highest possible recognition in the industry is a true honor,” said VPA Executive Director, Aaron Perri. “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.”

South Bend Venues Parks & Arts was chosen among a number of organizations in cities with populations of 75,001-150,000. The organizations were judged based on their ability to address the needs of those they serve.

“I am proud of the Venues Parks & Arts team and its national recognition for creating great public spaces and bringing our community together,” said Mayor James Mueller. “South Bend has the best parks department in the nation, and this gold medal confirms it. I look forward to seeing the team continue in excellence and deliver more to our community."

A national academy member will present the award in South Bend later this fall as part of a local celebration.

The National Gold Medal Award is governed by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association.