Naperville Park District receives the Exceptional Workplace Award

At the annual state conference in Chicago, the Illinois Park and Recreation Association recognized Naperville Park District with the 2021 Exceptional Workplace Award on Friday, Jan. 28. The park district will maintain this distinction for 5 years.

Naperville Park District employs approximately 100 full-time staff and nearly 1,000 seasonal and part-time staff.

Over the past 15 years, the park district has benefitted from stability in the leadership team and a high retention rate among staff at all levels. The park district is one of the community's largest employers of youth, providing excellent summer jobs at Centennial Beach and in recreation and parks.

"The application process provided the opportunity for an outside party to assess our policies, procedures and benefit offerings," explained Director of Human Resources Katie Sepe. "An outsider's view is critical to an organization that strives to be best in class."

As part of the park district's culture of continuous improvement, the human resources department in recent years has focused on competitive compensation and providing staff the resources to meet the needs of residents and patrons. For example, human resources enhanced benefits such as its bereavement policy and revamped training, including virtual offerings in the midst of the pandemic.

"Naperville Park District offers many advantages as a workplace," said Director of Recreation and Facilities Brad Wilson. "The district has a positive, engaging mission to promote a healthy community and also offers staff the opportunity to learn, work, be active and have fun alongside friendly, talented people. We are extremely proud of this award."