Cordova Recreation & Park District staff and board members pose with award. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – The Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) was honored at the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD) annual conference and awards banquet this May.

The District was awarded the Outstanding Special Event Award for Cupcake’s Community Memorial. This award honors outstanding and unique achievements in the planning, development and implementation of a District activity or special event. The District’s Community Memorial for Cupcake the Donkey was a thoughtfully planned and deeply meaningful event that honored a beloved animal who had become an enduring symbol of Hagan Community Park.

For years, Cupcake served as an unofficial ambassador of the park, creating personal connections with visitors through daily interactions that became cherished traditions for many families. The event not only honored a unique and cherished part of the District’s identity but also strengthened community bonds and reinforced the role of parks and recreation in bringing people together during moments that matter most.

Cordova Recreation & Park District staff and community members pose at Cupcake’s Memorial. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

Additionally, the District was presented with the CAPRI District Safety Award (formerly the Ted Winslow Safety Award). We are proud to be recognized for our ongoing commitment to maintaining safe, welcoming spaces for our community.

Brian Danzl and Rick Sloan, members of the District’s own Board of Directors, were also re-elected to the CARPD Board of Directors.

The California Association of Recreation and Park Districts, CARPD, is a 501c(6), not-for-profit organization representing special recreation and park districts throughout California. CARPD has been dedicated to improving the quality and efficiency of recreation and park districts.  Learn more at https://www.caparkdistricts.org