*Deadline Extended to September 14*
Seattle Parks and Recreation is seeking nominations for the Denny Awards, which honor extraordinary volunteer service to the City’s parks and recreation system. **The deadline for nominations has been extended to Sunday, September 14, 2025.**
The electronic nomination form is available here.
The awards will be presented at a recognition ceremony to be held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at MOHAI, 860 Terry Ave. N Seattle, WA 98109.
The Denny Awards acknowledge and honor the crucial role volunteers play in supporting neighborhood parks, green space, environmental projects, community centers and recreation programs throughout Seattle. The awards reflect the early commitment by the Denny family to the preservation of parkland and open space for public use and enjoyment. David T. and Louisa Denny donated land that became the first Seattle park, Denny Park, in 1884.
“Our volunteers are the backbone of everything we do. From coaching youth sports to planting native trees or serving on advisory councils, their dedication helps make our parks vibrant and impactful spaces for everyone. Their hard work and passion are the reason our parks thrive, and our communities grow stronger. At Seattle Parks and Recreation, our motto is simple: Seattle Shines. This wouldn’t be possible without our volunteers. Parks are pillars of strength, sustainability, and wellness for our city—places for connection, growth, and well-being, even on the rainiest days. Thanks to our volunteers, Seattle’s parks truly shine, reflecting the heart and spirit of our community,” said AP Diaz, Superintendent of Seattle Parks and Recreation
Denny Award nominees should:
- demonstrate exceptional stewardship of parks and/or recreation;
- have given a significant commitment of time or service;
- provide stellar commitment in support of SPR’s goals to extend race and social justice, and to support Healthy People, a Thriving Environment, and Vibrant Community.
For additional information, please contact Darryl Cook, Seattle Parks and Recreation, at 206-256-5609, or Darryl.Cook@seattle.gov.