Individual Awards

Voluntary Service
The National Voluntary Service Award is presented to citizens or organizations whose voluntary contributions have improved the quality and quantity of leisure opportunities through recreation, parks, and conservation programs and projects.

Humanitarian
The National Humanitarian Award is presented to an individual or organization whose concern for and dedication to humanity has been expressed through park, recreation, and conservation efforts that have enriched the lives of people.

National Literary Award
The National Literary Award is presented to a writer or publisher who has made a significant contribution to the understanding of new innovations or refined philosophic thoughts and tenets, trends, or research in parks, recreation, and conservation.

Robert W. Crawford Young Professional
The Robert W. Crawford Young Professional Award is presented to a parks and recreation professional who exemplifies the qualities of Bob Crawford. Crawford was singularly innovative and a pioneer leader in developing, planning, and programming in a wide variety of creative community leisure opportunities.

Ralph C. Wilson Long Term Service
The Ralph C. Wilson Awards is presented annually to an individual whose long-term service and dedication to the National Recreation and Park Association's boards, committees, regional councils, and volunteer initiatives have been exemplary and advanced the cause of parks, recreation, and conservation.

Distinguished Professional
The National Distinguished Professional Award is presented to those in the parks and recreation field who have made noteworthy contributions over time to the recreation, park, and conservation movement through inspiration, incentive, and leadership.

Theodore & Franklin Roosevelt Excellence in Research
The Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt Award for Excellence in Recreation and Park Research is presented once a year to an individual whose contributions to recreation and research have significantly advanced the cause of the recreation movement. This individual's dedication to the field should parallel the same dedication and zeal toward parks, recreation, and conservation that was exhibited by the presidents after whom the award was named.

Recognition of Significant Efforts (R.O.S.E.)
The R.O.S.E. award recognizes individuals who have "gone the extra mile" to advance parks and recreation in their communities.

Barb King Environmental Leadership Award
The Barb King Environmental Leadership Award recognizes the parks and recreation professional or citizen who has achieved excellence in leading his or her agency and/or community to a more sustainable future.

Congressional
The National Congressional Award is presesnted to two members of the U.S. Senate or House of Representatives each year who have advanced the mission of hte National Recreation and Park Association by inproving the quality of life for people through parks, recreation, and conservation.  The Congressional Award accepts nominations over the summer, and is presented at the NRPA Legislative Forum in the spring.