St. Charles Park District presented with Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency Award on Jan. 28 in Chicago

ST. CHARLES - St. Charles Park District received the Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency Award, according to a news release.

“This program gives recognition to park and recreation agencies that go above and beyond in dedicating themselves to offering quality programs and services designed to fulfill their community’s needs,” said Barry Franks, Illinois Park and Recreation Association interim executive director.

St. Charles Park District has been recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association. The award was presented to park district representatives at the annual parks and recreation state conference luncheon on Friday, Jan. 28 in downtown Chicago, the release stated.

“The Illinois Distinguished Accreditation program provides an opportunity for these agencies to undergo a voluntary, comprehensive evaluation process to demonstrate that they have met state guidelines to provide exceptional park and recreation services to their community. The end result is to improve the quality of life for Illinois residents,” said Peter Murphy, Illinois Parks Association Risk Services president and CEO.

This comprehensive review provided an opportunity for the St. Charles Park District to review and enhance policies, management practices, services, programs, parks, and facilities to best meet the needs of the community, the release stated.

“This is truly an honor for the St. Charles community, receiving this prestigious award is a testament to the St. Charles Park District, in particular its staff, and its mission to enrich the quality of life for its residents through excellence in programs, parks, facilities and services,” said James Cooke, Park Board president.