MetroParks of Butler County is proud to announce that its Suicide Prevention Sign Campaign has been selected as one of three statewide finalists for the 2025 Governor’s Award for Parks and Recreation presented by the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA). The Governor’s Award for Parks and Recreation recognizes the park and recreation program or project that has demonstrated the most significant positive impact on community quality of life over the past year. Finalists were selected by a panel representing 13 statewide professional organizations, and the award winner will be revealed at the 2026 OPRA Annual Awards Dinner on February 3, 2026, in Sandusky.

MetroParks of Butler County’s Suicide Prevention Sign Campaign was developed in partnership with the Butler County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services (MHARS) Board and the Butler County Veteran Services Commission to increase visibility of behavioral health and crisis resources throughout MetroParks’ 23 locations. The campaign was initiated in response to growing community mental health needs, including a rise in suicide rates county-wide. Parks often serve as places of reflection, healing and solitude, particularly for individuals experiencing emotional distress. By meeting people where they are, MetroParks aims to ensure that help is visible, accessible and stigma-free.

“We are honored to be recognized among the best parks and recreation programs in the state,” said Jackie O’Connell, Executive Director of MetroParks of Butler County. “This nomination reflects our ongoing commitment to community wellness and underscores how parks can play a meaningful role in connecting residents with resources that support mental health and well-being.”

The MetroParks Suicide Prevention Sign Campaign has already helped bring mental health crisis support into public view by strategically placing signs that offer immediate access to the Butler County Crisis Hotline and national resources, ensuring that help is visible and available to all visitors. In addition to being named a Governor’s Award finalist, the campaign was also awarded First Place in Marketing Innovation at OPRA’s 2025 Award of Excellence for its thoughtful design, messaging and impact.

“The creative partnership with MHARS embodies a shared vision to reduce barriers to care and expand hope across Butler County, especially for those experiencing crisis,” O’Connell added.

The OPRA Governor’s Award nomination highlights the agency’s continued commitment to connecting people with nature and supporting community health, safety, and accessibility.

About OPRA’s Governor’s Award
The OPRA Governor’s Award for Parks and Recreation honors the single most significant parks and recreation project or program in Ohio each year. First-place award recipients from the OPRA Awards of Excellence are eligible for consideration, with winners judged on impact, innovation, community need, and utilization. More information on the other Governor’s Award nominees can be found here: https://tr.ee/lhZu13. 

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