At an event on March 24, 2026, the City of Rock Hill thanked hundreds of volunteers for their service to Parks, Recreation and Tourism (PRT) events and programs in 2025. Mark Sexton, PRT Director, said, “The dedication and willingness of our volunteers to contribute their skills and time strengthens the quality of programs and services we’re able to offer our community.”

Special recognition was given to these individuals and groups:

• Dawn Johnson received the Julia Post Activities Award for dedication to the preservation of the social and cultural well-being of the community.  Johnson has served on the African American Cultural Resource Advisory Committee since 2017, championing the African American Business Monument and an African American museum, while promoting entrepreneurship and economic empowerment through the Black Economic Leadership League (B.E.L.L.).

• Anthony Haley received the G.C. Ray Athletic Award, recognizing dedication to promoting and teaching athletics. Haley has spent eight seasons coaching youth baseball in PRT’s spring and fall leagues, creating a positive, fun environment while teaching fundamentals and building strong relationships with players, parents, and officials.

• The Manning Family was awarded the Hiram Hutchison Therapeutic Award for dedication to providing recreation services to the special population of the Rock Hill area. Joel, Cathy and Will have dedicated years to Special Olympics and Miracle Park by coaching multiple sports, leading events and supporting athletes through transportation, meals, and fundraising. Their service includes Joel’s event leadership, Cathy’s creative programs and Will’s dedication, which led to his position with the PRT Department.

• Teammate Basketball was awarded the Betty Jo Rhea Tourism Award, which recognizes assistance to the community in promoting and conducting tourism opportunities in the Rock Hill area. Since 2020, Teammate Basketball has hosted seven tournaments at the Rock Hill Sports & Event Center, drawing more than 37K attendees, generating nearly 22K hotel room nights and an estimated $10 million in direct economic impact—supporting local hotels, restaurants, retailers and jobs across the community. 

•  Jody Steele received the David Boone Advisory Award for dedication to providing volunteer services to PRT advisory committees.  Steele has shown outstanding dedication to PRT by helping launch Lifelong Learning@Rock Hill, instructing classes, chairing advisory committees, creating a walking club and leading enhancements to the Trails and Greenways webpage.

• Natasha Jones received the Director’s Old Town Service Award for service with the Old Town Association.  Jones is a dedicated volunteer who plays a vital role in Old Town events and festivals, welcoming guests, supporting behind-the-scenes logistics, and stepping in wherever help is needed most with professionalism and warmth. 

The awards were announced by PRT Commissioners and presented by Mayor John Gettys along with members of City Council. A special video was also showcased, featuring volunteers sharing personal reflections on the impact and meaning of their service.