Submitted
The Indiana Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA) has recognized Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) with the Outstanding Agency Award, one of the association’s most distinguished recognitions.
The award celebrates agencies that make lasting contributions to their communities and the state by advancing the parks and recreation field and improving the quality of life for all Indiana residents
Klitzing
“Receiving the Outstanding Agency Award is a tremendous honor that reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers and community partners,” CCPR Director and CEO Michael Klitzing said. “Our mission has always been to strengthen the Carmel community through parks and recreation, and this award validates our ongoing commitment to excellence, inclusion and innovation.”
CCPR manages more than 700 acres of parkland and welcomed 5.7 million visitors to its parks and facilities in 2024. Through thoughtful and inclusive design, each park and facility is accessible to individuals of all abilities, reflecting CCPR’s commitment to ensuring that everyone can play, explore and thrive.
The department is also a leader in environmental stewardship, contributing to the White River Greenway Vision Plan and offering hands-on volunteer opportunities through citizen science and invasive species removal efforts.
Beyond its parks, CCPR offers a wide range of recreation, fitness and enrichment programs that engage participants of all ages and abilities. In 2024 alone, the department served more than 169,000 program participants and offered over 2,800 recreation, fitness, adaptive and summer camp programs. CCPR also manages the Monon Community Center and partners with Carmel Clay Schools to provide after-school care in all 11 elementary schools, serving more than 1,700 students during the 2024-25 school year.
As Carmel continues to grow and community needs evolve, CCPR remains committed to resource management, expanding access, promoting active lifestyles and building connections that strengthen the community.