Douglas County Recreation has received three statewide honors at the 2026 Nevada Parks & Recreation Society Conference, held April 20–22 in Stateline. The department was recognized for excellence, innovation, and community impact through two signature programs and one collaborative partnership.
The department received the Program Excellence Award in Youth Enrichment for its Outdoor Adventure Challenge program, the Legacy Program Award for its Annual Father-Daughter Dance, and the Program Excellence Award in Co-Partnership for the Smash Hunger Pickleball Tournament & Fundraiser.
Outdoor Adventure Challenge
Launched summer 2023, the Outdoor Adventure Challenge was created to expand outdoor recreation and education opportunities for youth ages 11–18. The program introduces participants to safe, engaging outdoor experiences while encouraging confidence, teamwork, environmental appreciation, and lifelong healthy habits.
Through activities such as day hikes, multi-day backpacking trips, archery, rock climbing, fishing, and kayaking, OAC gives youth the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Douglas County and the surrounding Carson Valley in a meaningful and hands-on way. Since its launch, the program has served 313 students through the summer of 2025, with enrollment continuing to grow each season.
“This award highlights the incredible impact that Outdoor Adventure Challenge has had on our youth,” said Recreation Coordinator Dennis Hubbard. “We are proud to provide opportunities that not only connect young people to the outdoors but also empower them to build confidence and lead active, healthy lives.”
Father-Daughter Dance
Douglas County Recreation was also honored with the Legacy Program Award for its Annual Father-Daughter Dance. For more than three decades, this cherished event has brought families together to celebrate connection, tradition, and shared memories.
The Father-Daughter Dance is more than a night of music and dancing. It is a meaningful community tradition that strengthens family bonds, welcomes fathers and father figures, and creates lasting memories across generations. The event also supports local collaboration through partnerships with vendors, DJs, photographers, community organizations, and volunteers who help bring the celebration to life each year.
“The Father-Daughter Dance is more than just an event, it’s a legacy,” Hubbard added. “It represents decades of community spirit, volunteerism, and the importance of celebrating family connections.”
Smash Hunger Pickleball Tournament & Fundraiser
The department also received the Program Excellence Award in Co-Partnership for the Smash Hunger Pickleball Tournament & Fundraiser. This impactful event was a collaborative effort between Douglas County Recreation and Douglas County Leadership, developed as a leadership class project with a strong focus on community service.
Hosted at the Herbig Park Pickleball Complex, the tournament brought together players, families, and local partners to raise funds for the Douglas County School District’s Angel Accounts, which help provide school lunches for students in need. The event featured music, food trucks, raffle prizes, and a kids’ zone, creating a high-energy, family-friendly atmosphere centered around giving back.
Through strong partnerships, strategic outreach, and meaningful community engagement, the event raised $11,356.18 in direct support of local students. As the first tournament held at the new facility, it also served as a powerful showcase of the Herbig Park Pickleball Complex, introducing new users to the space while strengthening its role as a community gathering place.
“These recognitions speak to the heart of what we do in Community Services,” said Administrative Services Manager Georgianna Drees-Wasmer. “We are committed to creating programs that bring people together, support healthy lifestyles, and build a strong sense of belonging in Douglas County. Whether it’s a young person discovering the outdoors for the first time or a family creating lifelong memories, these programs truly make a difference.”
Together, these awards reflect Douglas County Recreation’s continued commitment to providing high-quality programs that enrich lives, build connections, and strengthen the community. From inspiring youth through outdoor adventure to honoring treasured family traditions and creating impactful partnerships, Douglas County Recreation continues to enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages.
Photo Caption (from left to right): Administrative Services Manager Georgianna Drees-Wasmer, Community Services Manager Amanda Reid, Recreation Coordinator Dennis Hubbard, Recreation Coordinator Jennifer Calabrese, Recreation Coordinator Laura Cline, Recreation Supervisor Scott Doerr, Recreation Coordinator Cole Cline, and Community Services Deputy Director Ryan Stanton
