News: Bristol Board of Parks Commissioners All Heart Parks Advocate of the Year Awards Seeks Nominations

Date Published	Author
3/5/2026 12:00:00 AM

ALL HEART PARKS ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR AWARD SEEKS NOMINATIONS
 
Bristol, CT – [March 5, 2026] – The City of Bristol is seeking nominations for it’s the 2026 All Heart Parks Advocate of the Year Award. Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu, the Department of Parks, Recreation, Youth & Community Services (BPRYCS), and the Board of Park Commissioners will be recognizing a volunteer in the community that has made significant contributions to improving the quality of the Bristol Park system.

“This award program is designed to recognize exemplary contributors that have really gone above and beyond to make a significant positive impact on the park system,” explained Josh Medeiros, Superintendent of Bristol Parks, Recreation, Youth and Community Services. “Through the years so many community members have donated, volunteered their time, and contributed to making the Bristol park system one of the best in the state”.

Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to parks and recreation in the form of land, money, services, equipment, in-kind labor or other relevant forms of donation or assistance rendered. While active commissioners and current elected city officials do not qualify, past commissioners and city officials may be considered. Applications are open through March 31, 2026 and those interested in applying for or submitting a nomination for the award can access the form at BristolRec.com.

Community Engagement Coordinator, Erica Ussery remarked “Whether it be stewardship, advocacy, leading programs, championing new projects, and/or other kinds of volunteerism – we want to know and we want to celebrate and honor those contributions! I’m really looking forward to shining a spotlight on the remarkable community members who dedicate their time, energy, and talents to making a difference and strengthening the fabric of the Bristol community.”

The award recipient will be honored at the Board of Park Commissioners Meeting on May 20, 2026 at Bristol City Hall. Nominators are welcomed and encouraged to attend).