Gilbert Parks and Recreation received two Best of the Best Awards from the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association for programs promoting inclusion and cultural awareness.

The department earned the Adaptive Program Award for its sensory bag initiative, which provides items such as noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, fidget toys, and communication cards at recreation centers, libraries, park ranger vehicles and community programs. The tools are designed to support individuals with sensory sensitivities and help them participate more comfortably in town activities and events.

Gilbert also received the Cultural Awareness Program Award for its Global Village Festival, an annual event celebrating cultures from around the world through food, music, art and traditions.

The assoc

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