The nomination forms for the RIRPA Awards. You can fill these award applications online with the links below or print and mail-in forms.
The deadline for the awards is Friday, February 27th 2026.
“STEP UP TO THE PLATE” AWARD-This award is presented to an individual or organization who has “stepped up to the plate” through their statewide commitment, dedication, actions, involvement and/or support of Parks & Recreation in Rhode Island. This award will be presented to those exemplary individuals or organizations that fall outside of the existing award guidelines in the other annual RIRPA award categories.
JOHN “JACK’ CRONIN AWARD Professional-To recognize an individual in the field of Parks & Recreation for his/her outstanding contributions to the profession, as did John “Jack” Cronin for whom the award is named.
SETTIMO “STEAMER” RICCI AWARD Volunteer Service Award-To recognize an individual whose volunteer efforts in parks & recreation have impacted the citizens in their town or city, and/or in the State of Rhode Island.
RIRPA HALL OF FAME-The RIRPA Hall of Fame was created in 1997 as a way of recognizing outstanding individuals in the Profession of Parks & Recreation, who have committed a life-time career to this field and who have shown exemplary service during that tenure.
WALTER HENRY AWARD-To recognize an individual in the field of Parks & Recreation for his/her leadership skills, qualities, and abilities, as did Walter A. Henry for whom the award is named.
DISTINGUISHED DEPARTMENT OF THE YEAR - recognizes a Parks & Recreation Department in the State of Rhode Island whose concern for and dedication to the field has been demonstrated through efforts, which enhance the lives of the people in their community.