We recently updated the community about the outstanding accomplishments of the Pelham Parks and Recreation Department and the recognition they received from the Alabama Recreation & Park Association (ARPA). ARPA is a statewide organization that serves over five hundred members and represents seventy-plus municipalities registered with the state of Alabama. In December, four nominees from the Pelham Park & Recreation Department were awarded recognition at the district level. Jared Thornton received Innovative Program of the Year for implementing the new NHL Street program. Jake Dickens was awarded Merit in Parks for his dedication to youth sports programs and facilities. Tabitha Dudley was recognized as New Professional Award 2024 for her leadership at the Pelham Rec Center, and Jim Collins received the Community Service Award on behalf of the Pelham Garden Club for their outstanding partnership with the city.
The winners from all seven districts that make up the ARPA were entered into competition at the state level, and we are pleased to announce that two of the four nominees from Pelham won in their divisions. Brian Cooper, Director of Pelham Parks & Recreation, took time during the recent city council meeting to recognize each of the four District III award winner and to hand out trophies in recognition of two state level award winners to commemorate their hard earned accomplishments.
The winners who were recognized at the district and state level are:
Jared Thornton
ARPA District III Innovative Program of the Year - NHL Street
Recreation Coordinator Jared Thornton recognized an exciting opportunity to bring NHL Street to Pelham. Capitalizing on the popularity of the Birmingham Bulls ice hockey team, this emerging sport offers a highly affordable and accessible way for youth to engage in hockey off the ice first. Jared built a strong partnership with the Bulls to ensure the program's success. The team provided officials for the NHL Street Hockey league and sent current players to several "Learn to Play" sessions. These players helped teach the game and gave participants a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This groundbreaking program has become a resounding success thanks to Jared's innovative vision and collaboration.Learn more about the NHL Street format at nhlstreet.com.
Pelham Garden Club accepted by Jim Collins
Community Service Award for State of Alabama
Jim Collins and the late Teresa Riddle have been instrumental through their work with the Pelham Garden Club to help Pelham become only the the second city in Alabama to be Bee City USA Certified. The Club initiated a grant and a wildflower planting operation to cultivate of a half-acre wildflower meadow to attract pollinators, supporting Pelham's Bee population. They built seven bluebird houses to track and monitor the eggs of the bluebirds that call city park home. They maintain the Historical Society Garden and the plantings at the Destiny Riekeberg Memorial. They also worked with the Cahaba River Society to removed 30-40 truckloads of invasive plants from the Pelham Greenway Trail at City Park. Their efforts have also resulted in the planting of 40 plus trees and the cultivation of a half-acre wildflower meadow to attract pollinators, supporting Pelham's Bee City designation.
The additional District Level Awards are:
Jake Dickens
ARPA District III Merit in Parks Award
"Jake of all trades," Jake Dickens, has been a vital part of Pelham Parks & Recreation for 14 years. Known for his "can-do" attitude, Jake has become an indispensable asset to both the maintenance and youth sports teams. His dedication to field and facility maintenance is unmatched, but Recreation Coordinator Charlie Sanders notes, "it is in his role as the evening athletic assistant that his true value shines." Jake’s unwavering commitment to creating the best possible experience for youth sports participants—whether it's the youngest T-ball player or the most seasoned grade-level athlete—sets him apart. His passion and attention to detail ensure that the youth sports program runs seamlessly, making him an integral part of its success.
Tabitha Dudley
ARPA District and State New Professional Award 2024
Since joining the Parks & Recreation department in 2022, Tabitha Dudley has consistently shown an exceptional dedication to enhancing the operations of our Recreation Center. Her efforts to boost resident awareness and engagement led to an impressive 23% growth in Rec Center membership in 2024. A champion of technology-driven communication, Tabitha ensures effective and engaging outreach to both members and the broader community. Tabitha's professional development is equally noteworthy. She is an active member of ARPA, completed ARPA's LEAD leadership training in 2022, regularly attends District meetings, and participated in the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference. Her hard work and drive deliver tangible results and inspire her coworkers to strive for excellence. Tabitha is truly a force for positive change within our department.
Congratulations to the award winners. The city of Pelham is thankful for the Parks and Recreation Department and the work they do to benefit the community.