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| Jon LaFever, Canton Leisure Services Deputy Director |
This prestigious award was presented to LaFever during the 2021 Virtual mParks Conference and Trade Show, which took place online last month. mParks, formerly known as the Michigan Recreation and Park Association, honors exemplary park and recreation professionals and citizen advocates across the state during the annual awards ceremony. Recipients of the Recreation Leadership Award embody the core values of their profession, demonstrate the highest level of performance in their job duties, and maintain a tremendous commitment to mParks and its membership, according to a spokesperson. In addition, this award is the result of peer nomination from within the state community of parks and recreation agencies.
Since 2001, LaFever has worked in a variety of parks and recreation capacities with Canton Leisure Services. As deputy director, he coordinates operations at several Canton Leisure Services facilities. LaFever also assists in recreation project administration, budget oversight, and helping to manage department personnel. Canton Leisure Services staff includes approximately 55 full-time employees, as well as more than 300 part-time and seasonal employees. In addition, LaFever and his staff are responsible for the planning and execution of Leisure Services large-scale special events. A member of mParks since 2001, LaFever has most recently served as president of this state-wide advocacy organization and has been a frequent presenter at annual mParks conference and trade shows. In addition, LaFever has served on numerous mParks committees and was recognized as the New Professional of the Year in 2006. LaFever is also a Certified Park and Recreation Professional, overseen by the National Certification Board and the National Recreation and Park Association.
LaFever, his wife Heidi, son Gavin, and daughter, Lexi, reside in Canton.
