The city of Glendale’s public facilities, recreation and special events department was honored at the 72nd annual Arizona Parks & Recreation Awards.

Glendale won two APRA awards which recognize excellence in both parks and recreation. The presentation took place at the Peoria Sports Complex.

In a collaborative effort with Televeda, the city created the Glendale Recreation Online Wellness program, or G.R.O.W. This program earned Glendale the 2022 Partnership Award.

The G.R.O.W. program allows the city to offer classes to the community virtually or in person. City officials worked with Televeda to promote these opportunities and collaborated with one of their instructors on a virtual class. With the city expanding the class virtually, they were able to expand both their reach and engagement.

“I am so pleased to have my staff recognized by the state association for the innovative program and partnership with Televeda,” said Director of Public Facilities, Recreation and Special Events Jim Burke shared in a statement.

Vice Mayor Jamie Aldama was awarded the 2022 Outstanding Public Official Award for his various contributions to Glendale. Aldama has been instrumental in bringing back city-run programs, continuing the “Hook-a-Kid On Fishing” clinic, and has been heavily involved in the master planning process.

“I am humbled and honored to have been recognized by APRA,” Aldama stated. “I appreciate the association’s advocacy for parks statewide. I am proud of the diligent service provided by the city of Glendale’s parks and recreation staff.”

The Glendale public facilities, recreation and special events department is a partnership of employees and the community working together through parks, recreational programming, special events, tourism and neighborhood and community facilities.