James City County Parks & Recreation received seven awards at the 72nd Annual Virginia Recreation & Park Society (VRPS) Conference. The event took place in Roanoke, Virginia, from October 26 to 29, 2024. More than 600 professionals from across the state attended the conference to share information and recognize achievements in parks and recreation.
Judy Kinshaw-Ellis received the Distinguished Volunteer Service award for her work on projects such as the $30,000 Riparian Duffer Demonstration Garden. Her volunteer contributions are valued at over $60,000 for the county. The Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association (EVMA) was given the Distinguished Private Sector award. The group manages about 25 miles of trails and organizes events in Hampton Roads. Its 250 volunteers contribute more than 300 hours each year, valued at over $10,500.
Kelley Herbert, Recreation Services Administrator, received the Distinguished Service award. She has worked in the department for 17 years, focusing on access and team development. The department also received awards for programs such as the Exceptional Expeditions DEI initiative and the Women’s & Men’s Health Symposiums, which provided health resources to 169 employees in 2024…