The Washington Recreation and Parks Association recognized two outstanding employees of Pierce County Parks last week at its 2014 state conference in Seattle. Recreation Supervisor Jen Spane received the Young Professional Award for her contributions as a future leader in the profession, while Companionship Coordinator Jennifer Sergent received the Marketing and Outreach Spotlight Award for cultural competency in her work on the Companionship Quarterly Guide.

“I couldn’t be prouder of all our Pierce County Parks staff, but these two in particular have gone above and beyond in reaching out to the community and representing the values we uphold,” said Tony Tipton, Pierce County’s Parks and Recreation Director. “The work Jennifer does building bridges between members of the community is an invaluable asset to what makes Pierce County such a great place to live, and Jen is always bursting with energy. She brings enthusiasm and joy to all that she does.”

The companionship program is designed to provide recreation and leisure opportunities for individuals of all abilities and their families. The goal of the program is to help participants find and maintain strong friendships while playing and trying new things in the community.

“There is something very special about Jen Spane,” added former Pierce County Parks Director Kathy Kravit-Smith. “She is completely cool, calm and collected in the face of incredible pressure. She is the person who you could ask to coordinate an activity for thousands of people and be assured that every detail was covered.”

The Young Professional Award is given to someone who possesses the qualities and talents that will likely result in leadership roles in the future. Those qualities include effective leadership skills, innovation, past accomplishments, and others.

Jen began her career with Spokane Parks and Recreation working with after-school programs, special events and coaching basketball. During the summer months, she interned for Pierce County Parks and Recreation and ran the Kid Mobile play unit. Her current job responsibilities include programs for children with disabilities, summer camps, princess parties, fun runs, and the Fantasy Lights program.