Columbus Parks Department seeks national accreditation, Gold Medal status

COLUMBUS, Ind. — The Columbus Parks and Recreation Department is embarking on a multi-year effort to earn national accreditation as part of a broader strategy to compete for national recognition.

Parks Director Nikki Murphy announced that the department will begin a two- to three-year data collection and review process required for national accreditation.

Department leadership noted that certified status serves as a key prerequisite for earning a national Gold Medal Award, which recognizes excellence in park and recreation management.

As part of the initiative, the department has submitted a $50,000 grant application to the Heritage Fund-Bartholomew County to hire a fundraising framework consultant and support professional development through the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University Indianapolis.