Title
Recognition of the Colorado Park & Recreation Association Award for Community Champion Presented Posthumously to Stephannie Finley-Fortune
Presenter:
Britt Haley - Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director
Body
Summary:
The Colorado Parks & Recreation Association Awards Program is intended to recognize and celebrate the individuals and organizations that contribute to the success and value of parks and recreation in the state of Colorado. Designed to bring attention to its recipients, the awards program highlights the successes of association members and community champions. On Thursday, September 28, 2023, Stephannie Finley-Fortune was posthumously awarded the Community Champion award.
Background:
Stephannie's influence in Colorado Springs has been immeasurable. Over her 25+ years in Colorado Springs, she played a vital role in supporting numerous leaders and initiatives dedicated to propelling positive change across the city. After an exceptional career in government affairs and many years of board service to community non-profits, Stephannie decided to take her talents to City Council.
It was Stephannie's collaborative spirit that also made her an exceptional City Councilwoman. With enthusiasm, she embraced the needs of District 3, actively engaging residents and advocating for the unique needs of the Westside. One notable initiative she took great pride in was the operational transition at the Westside Community Center (WCC). Working alongside city staff, she supported hiring a skilled facilitator to conduct community visioning exercises, ensuring that the voices and aspirations of the community were heard and incorporated into the path forward. Despite inheriting the WCC operational transition as a sensitive and often conflictual topic within her district, Stephannie navigated it with compassion - empowering and inspiring residents for the future. As a result of this successful process during Stephannie’s council tenure, the Westside Community Center joined three other established centers under the operation of the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Department. These centers play a vital role in offering essential multigenerational programs and services to the community, supporting overall health and well-being.
Like many urban communities, Colorado Springs also faces challenges with homelessness, particularly in parks and trails. Stephannie demonstrated her commitment to addressing this issue by publicly endorsing the creation of a new Urban Trail Ranger Unit. This dedicated team will be responsible for enhancing trail safety and coordinating regular clean-ups in the urban core. This team will also work in collaboration with existing homeless outreach providers, aiming to offer resources and support to those experiencing homelessness. Additionally, this team’s presence will contribute to increased vigilance and improved safety for all trail users. Stephannie's advocacy and support from City Council played a crucial role in securing the necessary funding for the establishment of this unit.
By championing projects like these, Stephannie exemplified her wholehearted dedication to solving problems for her District. Her unwavering commitment to our city has left an indelible impact, particularly in enhancing recreational opportunities throughout our community.
Despite previously overcoming breast cancer, Stephannie faced another unexpected challenge when she was diagnosed with leukemia in late 2022. She exhibited incredible strength and dedication, fulfilling her responsibilities and completing her term on City Council with unwavering commitment. Tragically, she passed away in June 2023. Our community now mourns the loss of a true champion and friend. In recognition of her exceptional accomplishments and lasting impact, the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department would like to spotlight her contributions to encourage both the state of Colorado and the Pikes Peak Region to find inspiration in Stephannie’s remarkable legacy through this year’s Community Champion Award.
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