April 3, 2017 - Kimberly Baskin has been awarded the 2017 Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO) Award of Excellence in the Emerging Leader category. She was presented the award at a ceremony in Huntsville on Thursday, March 30. Kim is the Program Supervisor - Children & Youth, with the City of Thunder Bay's Recreation & Culture Division. This award recognizes the outstanding achievements and accomplishments of a professional in the early stages of their career in the parks and recreation field.

"With a strong belief in bringing people together to make a difference in the lives of children and youth, Kim continually demonstrates exceptional leadership skills," said Donna Sippala, Acting Director of Recreation & Culture. "Her recent work on developing and implementing our Youth Services Plan is a reflection of this belief and will guide our Division in the provision of services for Youth for years to come."

Donna Perrault, Supervisor Aquatics & Wellness with the City of Thunder Bay's Recreation & Culture Division was elected to the PRO Board of Directors at their Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday, March 28. She will serve on the Board for a three year term.

PRO is a non-profit association that advances the health, social and environmental benefits of quality recreation and parks through evidence-based practices, resources and collaborative partnerships. PRO was formed in 1995 and now has over 6,200 members including professionals, volunteers, educators, students, interested citizens, elected officials and commercial representatives "” all with an interest in how recreation and parks contribute to healthy people and vibrant communities.

For more information, visit: www.prontario.org

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Contact: Callie Hemsworth, Coordinator - Planning, Projects & Development, 625-3791