NEW ORLEANS – Last month, the Louisiana Recreation and Parks Association (LRPA) awarded the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) with the Excellence in Parks and Recreation award at its annual conference.
This is NORDC’s first year receiving the award.
The award recognizes Louisiana Parks and Recreation organizations for providing outstanding recreational opportunities for its citizens.
Organizations are judged on their ability to address the needs of those they serve through the collective efforts of citizens, staff and elected officials. Scoring is based on programs offered, organizational model, community engagement, and partnerships. Organizations are also scored on economic impact, investment to facilities and events offered to citizens.
Applicants are separated into four classes based on population. NORDC is in the largest category, which includes communities with populations over 200,000.
“When I took office in 2010, I made it my administration’s mission to build a world-class recreation department,” said Mayor Mitch Landrieu. “This award is a testament to the impactful contributions NORDC continually makes in the New Orleans community. I commend Vic Richard and everyone at NORDC for their hard work.”
Just last year, NORDC opened three new recreation centers and one new swimming pool, bringing the total number of recreation centers, parks and playgrounds to 35, city reps said. In 2016, over 70,000 youth participated in NORDC programming and since 2010, NORDC has provided jobs to nearly 10,000 New Orleans youth.
“We are proud to receive the Excellence in Parks and Recreation Award,” said Vic Richard, NORDC CEO. “Receiving this award speaks to the hard work and dedication of our staff, the Mayor’s commitment to recreation, and the support of the City Council, NORD Commission, NORD Foundation and of our partners. NORDC will continue to strive for excellence by providing the residents of the City of New Orleans with safe educational, recreation and culturally engaging opportunities.”
