Friends of the Parks

Each year Friends of the Parks acknowledges the hard working volunteers of Chicago for their work in Chicago’s Parks and the Forest Preserves with a Volunteer Appreciation Reception.

The 2008 reception was held on Sunday, November 16th at the Forest Preserve District of Cook County’s Matthew Bieszczat Volunteer Resource Center loacated on Chicago’s northwest side.

The following awards were given:

Stewardship Award
(Awarded to individuals who work in their park or forest preserve to beautify their community.)

Madiem Kawa, Washington Park

Ken Schaefer, Edgebrook Woods

Advocacy Award
(Awarded to groups/individuals who work to better their park through community organization.)

Indian Boundary Park Advisory Council

Park Advisory Council Award
(Awarded to advisory councils who have made a significant contribution to their park.)

Harris Park Advisory Council

Community Group Award
(Awarded to community groups or organizations that have made a significant contribution to their park or forest preserve.)
North River Commission

Individual Volunteer Award

(Awarded to individuals who volunteer in their park beyond stewardship.)

Mark Heller, Logan Park Skate Park

Outstanding Park District Employee Award

(Awarded to individuals whose commitment to their job and their park greatly benefits the Chicago community.)

Chris Krieger, Central RegionMichael Angelastaro, Vittum Park

Outstanding Forest Preserve Employee Award

(Awarded to individuals whose commitment to their job and their forest preserve greatly benefits the Chicago community.)

Cathy Geraghty, Director of Development

Mike Hart, Trails Manager

(1917-2008)

“Smoky Sakurada Friends of Friends Award”

L.A.T.E. Ride Committee Members,

Brad Pierce, Jeff Goeters and Lynn Wier