Rock Hill, South Carolina – At an event on March 25, 2025, the City of Rock Hill thanked hundreds of volunteers who gave nearly 18,000 hours of service to Parks, Recreation and Tourism (PRT) events and programs. Mark Sexton, PRT director, said, “These volunteers sharing their time and talent elevates the level of programming and services we can provide to the community.”
Special recognition was given to these individuals and groups:
Halle Russell received the Julia Post Activities Award for dedication to the preservation of the social and cultural well-being of the community. As an instructor for Lifelong Learning @ Rock Hill, Russell has taught over 40 classes ranging from landscape design to craft projects. She also designed the layout for the Pollinator Garden at Northside Recreation Center.
Shauntoria Currence received the G.C. Ray Athletic Award, recognizing dedication to promoting and teaching athletics. Currence has been a positive influence on youth as a volleyball coach for the City’s youth league for five seasons, earning praise from her players and their parents.
Blake Davis was awarded the Hiram Hutchison Therapeutic Award for dedication to providing recreation services to the special population of the Rock Hill area. Davis, a 16-year-old student, volunteered for numerous therapeutic recreation programs and has served in every role with Miracle League, including as buddy, pitcher, catcher, mascot and team photographer.
2024 BMX Racing World Championships Volunteers and Organizing Committee were awarded the Betty Jo Rhea Tourism Award, which recognizes assistance to the community in promoting and conducting tourism opportunities in the Rock Hill area. Chip and Sherry Hutchison, chairs of the volunteer committee, accepted the award on behalf of the group. The event drew nearly 58,000 people and created an estimated direct economic impact of over $30 million.
John Coleman received the David Boone Advisory Award for dedication to providing volunteer services to PRT advisory committees. Coleman was recognized for 39 years of service as a member of the Rock Hill Parks and Recreation Commission. Coleman’s efforts inspire those around him, leaving a mark on Rock Hill and beyond.
The awards were announced by PRT Commissioners and presented by Mayor John Gettys and members of City Council. Guest speaker, Jennifer Gregg with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) of South Carolina, also shared thoughts on the importance of volunteering.
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