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Carmel, Ind., 1/26/2012 — Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation received two coveted awards at last week’s annual gathering of the Indiana Park and Recreation Association.
Sue Dillon, a lifelong Hamilton County resident and environmental advocate, received the organization’s Volunteer of the Year Award. In addition, Founder’s Park was recognized by the organization with the Park Development Award in the $750,000+ budget category.
Dillon was recognized for her significant voluntary contribution in support of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. “Her loyalty, dedication, and hard work make her very deserving of this honor,” says Mark Westermeier, CCPR director. “She is a tireless promoter of our department and understands the vision and mission better than most. Sue is always among the first to volunteer and lend a helping hand.”
Dillon founded Citizens for Greenspace, a group of citizens who partner with local schools, parks and city organizations, developers, scout troops and city government to promote the importance of trees to the community, and was its first president and guiding force for 23 years. She began volunteering with Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation in 1991 and served on the very first park board. She continued to serve as a member for 15 years and was president of the board for seven years during the planning and construction of Central Park and the Monon Community Center.
Founder’s Park opened last summer. Designed by The Schneider Corporation with input from a committee of community leaders, city officials, local businesses and park neighbors, the park is located on 35 acres at the northeast corner of the intersection of 116th Street and Hazel Dell Parkway in Carmel.  The design allows for both active and passive activities including a geological education play area, fitness and nature trails and rugby and lacross fields. Founders Pavilion – with rooms for meetings, classes and rentals – is located near the center of the park, overlooking a 10-acre pond.
About Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR)
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) serves the recreation, fitness, and nature needs of the community, manages and develops existing spaces and resources and creates a sustainable future for parks and recreation programs through a financially viable and environmentally conscious parks system. CCPR manages and maintains more than 500 park acres and numerous recreation facilities, including the Monon Community Center. For more information, visitwww.carmelclayparks.com.