Silver Linings at Old Bridge was presented the Agency Showcase Award for Social Media Campaign for the Silver Linings Virtual Community at the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association (NJRPA) Annual Awards Ceremony at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City, NJ on Tuesday, March 8, 2022.
The Agency Showcase Awards recognizes outstanding marketing campaigns and promotional materials which encourage participation in recreation activities. The award was accepted by Anahita Feltz, Silver Linings at Old Bridge Manager, Matt Mercurio, Director of Parks & Recreation and Social Services for Old Bridge Township and Mayor Owen Henry.
Silver Linings Virtual Community Facebook platform was developed in March 2020 to keep Silver Linings community members engaged during the COVID-19 pandemic and to prevent social isolation during these uncertain times. This virtual senior center enabled Old Bridge residents to stay connected with over 300 members through daily posts, activities, live classes, and more.
The information regarding the virtual senior center was sent out via email to members and posted on the Township website. Members were also made aware of the page during wellness calls at the beginning of the pandemic in March of 2020. A welcome video was created with a hello from all the Silver Linings staff and the Director of Parks & Recreation. There were no costs associated with the design or setup of the virtual senior center. Grants were obtained to purchase iPads and hot spots for members who did not have internet access.
The New Jersey Recreation and Park Association is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting parks and recreation; enhancing the professional development of its members; advocating sound policy and stewardship related to parks, recreation, resource management, and leisure services; and increasing awareness of the value of play and preservation of the environment to interested citizens and the public. The purpose of the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association’s Awards Program is to honor and identify dedicated leaders, employees, and volunteers in the field of Parks and Recreation, and to recognize the State’s outstanding Recreation and Park agencies for excellence in programming, publicity and facility design. The goal of the Awards Program is to focus State attention on the achievement of Park and Recreation agencies, to recognize the continuing efforts of staff and volunteers, and to acknowledge support extended by member agencies.
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