Canton Township Leisure Services has been recognized by mParks, formerly the Michigan Recreation and Parks Association, with a 2021-2022 Innovative Programming Award, which was presented March 9, at the mParks annual Conference and Trade Show in Traverse City.
mParks, a statewide professional association for the Michigan parks and recreation industry, honored Canton Leisure Services with special recognition of the Canton Pride OUTside and Diwali Festival of Lights community events. These award-winning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs both debuted in 2021 and were well received within the Canton Community, officials said. The Canton Pride OUTside event was designed to increase awareness, build community, and support the LGBTQ+ community.
The Canton Diwali celebration, which was the first municipally hosted festive event of this kind in the state, encouraged artistic expression of this Indian cultural celebration through vibrant performances, unique exhibits, and colorful decorations. Each of these community events, which took place in Heritage Park, provided a safe and engaging experience to participants of all ages and are expected to be offered again in the coming years, officials said."This statewide recognition is an immense honor and we take great pride in receiving it," said Canton Leisure Services Director Greg Hohenberger. "Canton residents are fortunate to have access to these award-winning community events, as well as year-round recreation opportunities, health and wellness programs, enrichment classes, fine arts and cultural programs, family-friendly activities, and much more."
mParks' annual awards recognize parks and recreation professionals, agencies, advocates, and legislators, who provide enriching and engaging experiences that support the state of Michigan recreation industry, which has long been an important economic driver by inspiring tourism, supporting jobs, and improving health and wellness for residents and visitors. The Innovative Recreation Programming Award honors creative recreation programs, fund-raising activities, and promotional tools.
Since 2004, the Canton Township Leisure Services department has been accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), which recognizes park and recreation agencies for excellence in operation and service. Currently, there are 191 CAPRA accredited agencies in the United States. Canton Leisure Services was also recognized as the 2008 winner of the National Recreation and Parks Association Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.
