The City of Johnstown is proud to highlight the work of the Greater Johnstown Parks and Recreation District (GJPRD) Board, an essential part of our vision for a stronger, more connected community. Established in 2021, this board was created to meet a growing need for dedicated leadership in parks and recreation planning, ensuring our residents enjoy enhanced opportunities for health, wellness, and community spirit.
The GJPRD Board includes dedicated members Nicole Shook, Mike Giannini, Frank Cea, Daryl Wernette, and a soon-to-be-appointed 5th representative. Together, they are shaping the future of recreation in Johnstown, preserving our rural heritage while fostering a vibrant, active community for all.
Above: Hannah Park in the heart of Johnstown
Why GJPRD Matters
As Johnstown continues to grow, so does the demand for high-quality recreational facilities, programs, and events for youth, families and seniors. The City recognized the need for a focused group to develop and manage these opportunities. By forming GJPRD, we’re ensuring that our parks and recreation system is thoughtfully designed and accessible to everyone in the Johnstown-Monroe Local School District.
Through collaboration with local nonprofits, community groups, and volunteers, GJPRD is expanding recreational sports, encouraging active lifestyles, and providing spaces where residents can come together. It’s about more
Below: GJPRD board members (left to right, top to bottom): Nicole Shook; Mike Giannini, Frank Cea, Daryl Wernette.
Exciting Updates
This year, GJPRD is taking the lead on planning and hosting Johnstown’s beloved July 4 Celebration. This is an example of how the organization can support community activities and further develop existing events as the organization ideates other programming.
Looking Ahead
Currently the GJPRD Board is looking to identify additional open space that could accommodate the current and future recreational needs of the Johnstown community. Once these potential sites are identified the Board can submit proposals for resident and partners to review and formulate funding opportunities which could make hypotheticals become a reality.
GET INVOLVED
The success of GJPRD relies on the involvement of our community. We invite you to lend your time and talents to support Johnstown’s events and initiatives. Whether it’s volunteering at a community celebration or helping shape the future of our parks, your contributions can make a difference.
To learn more or volunteer, contact Chairperson Mike Giannini at mgiannini@johnstownohio.org or Secretary Nicole Shook at nshook@johnstownohio.org. Public meetings are held on the last Thursday of each month, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, at the Johnstown Mary E. Babcock Library.
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