Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation named finalist for 2026 National Gold Medal Award

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) has been named a finalist for the 2026 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. The highest honor in the industry, this award is presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

The Gold Medal Awards program recognizes communities nationwide for excellence in parks and recreation. Agencies are evaluated on long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program, and professional development. CCPR is competing in the Class III category, which includes cities serving populations of 75,001 to 150,000.

CCPR, a Gold Medal winner in 2014 and 2020, is now eligible to compete again following the program’s mandatory 6-year sit-out period. This marks CCPR’s third time as a Gold Medal finalist, highlighting its continued commitment to innovation, strategic planning, and exceptional parks and programming. If selected, CCPR would become the first three-time winner in Indiana history.

Klitzing

“Being named a finalist reflects the strong support of our community, commitment from elected officials, and the dedication and passion of our incredible staff,” CCPR Director of Parks and Recreation/CEO Michael Klitzing said. “We are proud to create inspiring spaces and programs that enhance quality of life in Carmel.”

Finalists compete for the Grand Plaque Award, with recipients announced at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia, Pa., on Sept. 30.

For more information about the National Gold Medal Awards, visit the AAPRA or NRPA websites.

About Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) is a nationally accredited, Gold Medal Award-winning agency managing over 700 acres of parkland, including facilities such as the Monon Community Center and The Waterpark.

CCPR offers seasonal recreational programs for all ages and abilities, spanning nature, aquatics, adaptive, arts & culture, sports, senior and wellness offerings. In partnership with Carmel Clay Schools, CCPR also provides Extended School Enrichment, including before- and after-school care programming, and a Summer Camp Series for ages 5-15. Learn more at CarmelClayParks.com.