Geauga Park District was pleased to honor longtime volunteer Patti Hughes with its 2019 Robert McCullough Lifetime Achievement Award during its Volunteer Brunch & Celebration on April 6th.
This award is presented annually to a volunteer who has unselfishly given a “lifetime” of services to Geauga Park District while embodying its mission. Its first recipient was former volunteer and Board of Park Commissioners member Robert McCullough himself, in 2001.
Patti Hughes began volunteering for Geauga Park District in 1989, as Patti Cook. She is a regular volunteer at numerous programs such as Sap’s-a-Risin’!, Nature Scopes, birding and hiking. She completed Geauga Park District’s Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist program in 2008 and has given much of her time behind the scenes working on Citizen Science projects, particularly as one of the original Blue Bird Box Docs! Not one to be limited to observing Nature only on the land, Patti is also a valued and regular canoe and kayak rescue volunteer.
“As a staff person, I am always happy to see Patti’s name on my volunteer list,” said Naturalist Linda Gilbert. “Having such a stellar volunteer like Patti is a wonderful asset to our park programs.”
“Of all the volunteers that are assisting me with Citizen Science projects throughout the parks, Patti has been with me the longest,” said Naturalist Tami Gingrich. “Her inspiring qualities – include dedication, caring, attention to detail and love of Nature – have resulted in making Geauga County one of the most productive counties in the state for the Eastern Bluebird!’
“Patti’s volunteer service to GPD has benefitted and enriched our programming efforts greatly,” added Naturalist Dan Best. “She is much deserving of our Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Congratulations, Patti!
For more on Geauga Park District offerings, please call 440-286-9516 or visit Geauga Park District online via www.geaugaparkdistrict.org, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or YouTube.
