The Denny Awards, which honor extraordinary volunteer service to Seattle’s parks and recreation system, are normally celebrated once a year in person at a special ceremony. Because 2020 was anything but normal, and because the pandemic continues to require social distancing, Seattle Parks and Recreation is taking a different approach to show our gratitude by saying thanks to all the volunteers who showed up for us – and for the community – last year.
Despite the challenges of 2020, volunteer work carried on in certain areas. By taking the proper safety precautions and planning well, many people were able to support us on numerous projects that helped advance our mission of Healthy People, Healthy Environment, Strong Communities. Here are just a few highlights:
- 40 youths volunteered in job training programs centered in equity focus areas
- Over 1000 people participated in Green Seattle Days actions
- More than 57,000 native trees and shrubs were planted
- The Board of Park Commissioners and Park District Oversight Committee, whose members are all volunteers, met regularly online throughout 2020
- 25,644 hours in all were generously donated by volunteers
To everyone who helped make our programs a success in 2020, we extend deep thanks and gratitude. And we created a video just for you! View it here.
