As we kick off the 50th anniversary of Friends of the Parks, we are excited to continue our tradition of celebrating the people and groups who make Chicago’s parks an equitable space for all. We invite you to celebrate with us at the Park Heroes Celebration on August 2, 2025! Please RSVP using the form below.
RSVP for Our Upcoming Event
HOw to Nominate
There are so many ways to support our parks! That's why we have multiple categories to choose from--see below.
Annually, Friends of the Parks honors Park Advisory Councils (PACs), community groups, and individuals who have gone above and beyond in making Chicago’s parks great whether through stewardship, advocacy, or programming. These may be volunteers who are actively involved with Friends of the Parks, or they may be people we don’t know yet, but really should!
Who do you see going above and beyond to care for a park? What projects have captured your imagination? What groups are influencing decision makers to ensure all parks work for all Chicagoans? We have multiple categories to choose from. By submitting a nomination, you get to be a part of recognizing and celebrating the champions who are shaping the future of our parks.
Annually, Friends of the Parks honors Park Advisory Councils (PACs), community groups, and individuals who have gone above and beyond in making Chicago’s parks great whether through stewardship, advocacy, or programming. These may be volunteers who are actively involved with Friends of the Parks, or they may be people we don’t know yet, but really should!
Who do you see going above and beyond to care for a park? What projects have captured your imagination? What groups are influencing decision makers to ensure all parks work for all Chicagoans? We have multiple categories to choose from. By submitting a nomination, you get to be a part of recognizing and celebrating the champions who are shaping the future of our parks.
For inspiration, check out our awardees from recent years: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018
Please submit your nomination by June 30, 2025. Contact Egna Setiawan at [email protected] or 312-854-3803 with any questions.
These are the nomination categories.
- Stewardship Award - Awarded to individuals who work to beautify & improve the natural assets in parks.
- Advocacy Award - Awarded to groups or individuals that work to better their park through community organizing and public advocacy, by committing their voice and time to addressing a park issue or concern.
- Park Advisory Council Award - Awarded to advisory councils who have made a significant contribution to their park and local community.
- Park Programming Award: Someone who has improved our parks through programming or service.
- Community Group Award - Awarded to community groups or organizations that have made a significant contribution to their park and local community.
- Outstanding Park District Employee - Awarded to individuals whose commitment to their job and their park greatly benefits the local and Chicago community.
- 50-Year Legacy Award - Honoring an individual who has dedicated enduring support and service to the park system.
