MetroParks of Butler County has received a national marketing award from the National Association of County Parks and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) for its Suicide Prevention Sign Campaign developed in partnership with the Butler County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services Board.

The campaign placed signs throughout the MetroParks system featuring messages of hope and direct connections to crisis support resources, helping raise awareness of mental health services while reaching people in outdoor spaces where they live, work, and recreate.

“We are honored to receive this national recognition alongside our partners at MHARS,” said Jackie O’Connell, MetroParks’ Executive Director. “This campaign demonstrates how parks can play a meaningful role in supporting community well-being and connecting people with resources when they need them most.”

NACPRO annually recognizes outstanding contributions of county parks and recreation organizations nationwide. In 2026, 35 awards were given to 27 park and recreation organizations, park professionals, and volunteers. For more information about NACPRO, visit https://www.nacpro.org/. 

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