Stark Parks honors volunteers for 2025 service milestones

Stark Parks celebrated its volunteers at the annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner, held earlier this month at the Exploration Gateway at Sippo Lake Park. Through September, more than 12,900 volunteer hours were logged in 2025 by individuals and groups supporting the park district’s mission.

Several volunteers received special recognition for their contributions:

Rising Star Award: Jennica Messmore of Massillon was honored as an emerging volunteer for her two years of service at the Wildlife Conservation Center and her willingness to assist at park events. Nominations highlighted her pride in serving as a Stark Parks volunteer and readiness to take on any task.

Outstanding Trailblazer Award: Valerie DeLong of Alliance was recognized for her commitment to trail safety and user experience. Described as a patient and self-motivated volunteer, she helps with kayaking programs, special events, and litter cleanup along trails and waterways.

Community Science Award: Siffrin Academy and program coordinator Melarie Weaver were honored for their ongoing bird observation work, which combines sight, sound, and field technology. Over three years, the group has identified more than 27 bird species and assisted with native seed cleaning programs.

Wildlife Conservation Center Volunteer of the Year: Bill Woodard of Canton earned this award for his dedication to the Wildlife Conservation Center, including training new volunteers and organizing materials to prepare for upcoming shifts.

Community Partnership Award: The Home Depot in Massillon received this honor for its assistance rebuilding a bridge at Sippo Lake Park. Team members volunteered about 70 hours to remove fire-damaged sections and restore trail connections for surrounding neighborhoods.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Chuck and Peggy Nunley of Jackson Township were recognized for 17 years of volunteer service and leadership, including their work as Trailblazers and as beloved mascots FeLeap the Frog and FeLeap’s Assistant. Though they no longer bike or walk long distances, the pair continues to greet and assist visitors along the Towpath Trail.

Volunteer of the Year: Lindy Anastis of Perry Township was named Volunteer of the Year for her reliability, attention to detail, and broad support of Stark Parks operations. She also serves as a trustee for Friends of Stark Parks.

Stark Parks manages 15 parks, four lakes, four historic properties and more than 120 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, covering over 6,800 acres of land. For more information, visit StarkParks.com.