Under the warm glow of the Honolulu City Council chamber, a sense of pride filled the air as council members gathered to honor a remarkable organization dedicated to enhancing community life through recreation and art. The spotlight shone on the Hawaii Recreation and Park Society (HRPS), a nonprofit that has spent decades enriching the lives of residents across the islands.

Council members Tupole and Taoba led the presentation, emphasizing the profound impact HRPS has on parks, playgrounds, and programs that touch the lives of both keiki and kupuna. As they called out the names of HRPS representatives, including Iris Fukunaga and Sharmila Abe, applause erupted, celebrating the collective efforts of those who strive to make recreation services accessible and inclusive.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of Parks and Recreation Month, a celebration highlighted by a statewide poster contest themed "Build Together, Play Together." The initiative encouraged children to express what parks mean to them, revealing stories of friendship, family bonding, cultural celebration, and skill development. HRPS collaborates with various stakeholders, including the parks department and educators, to provide essential resources that not only create programs but also build careers and empower future leaders.

The council members highlighted HRPS's alignment with the National Recreation and Parks Association, which promotes health-focused programs and equitable access to green spaces. Their work extends beyond mere programming; it fosters community wellness, creativity, and unity, transforming lives and cultivating future leaders.

As the presentation concluded, the council expressed heartfelt congratulations to HRPS for their invaluable service. The recognition served as a reminder that parks are not just physical spaces; they are vital pillars of community connection and well-being. With hopes for continued collaboration, the council looked forward to another decade of HRPS's impactful work in the community.