The Downtown Merriam Partnership today won the Distinguished Public Service Organization Award at the 70th Annual Kansas Recreation and Park Association Conference and Trade Show in Wichita.

The award recognizes organizations for their contributions to the advancement of parks and recreation. The Merriam Parks and Recreation Department nominated the Downtown Merriam Partnership for the award.

In its nomination, the Parks and Recreation Department said Downtown Merriam Partnership advocated for the new community center in Merriam by distributing “Vote Yes” signs to residents. It noted the group is heavily involved in annual City programs such as the Turkey Creek Festival, Turkey Creek Car Show, Party in YOUR Park, and other special community events. The Downtown Merriam Partnership also provides Merriam Aquatic Center scholarships to families in need.

“The work of Parks and Recreation is not possible without a strong volunteer base,” said Anna Slocum, Merriam’s Parks and Recreation Department director. “Downtown Merriam Partnership has been a longtime friend of the Department, helping provide sponsorship and assistance in a variety of programs and special events allowing resources to stretch further and improve our activities. To have its nomination be chosen from a record number of applications speaks highly of the work they do.”

Made up of various City businesses, the Downtown Merriam Partnership “ensures the continuation and the revitalization of the historical downtown Merriam.” Its president, Stoney Bogan, and members Johnny Pieters and Jason Perez accepted the award on the group’s behalf at the conference.

“It’s such an honor and surprise to be recognized for our contributions to the Parks and Recreation Department,” Bogan said.