DANVILLE — Since Bob Stoudt became director in 2010, the Montour Area Recreation Commission has expanded recreational opportunities in Montour County and maintained natural resources like the Montour Preserve.
The Community Giving Foundation: Danville is recognizing Stoudt’s community service efforts this year by honoring him with the 2024 Robert N. Pursel Award for Neighbor of the Year.
“I’m very, very honored by this award. Many past recipients have helped me in my job. They’ve have been community-minded and have helped us do a better job,” he said. “It’s an honor to be part of that legacy.”
The foundation said Pursel awards are “given to individuals or organizations that have shown exemplary commitment to the community through professional work and volunteerism.”
Stoudt has a vast history of volunteerism and is a valued fixture in the community, according to the foundation.
“Since assuming the role of MARC director in 2010, the organization has grown under Stoudt’s leadership to manage multiple park and trail properties in Montour and Columbia counties,” the foundation said in a press release. “Stoudt and his team have worked to significantly expand Montour County’s outdoor recreation opportunities.”
MARC has worked with community partners and volunteers to maintain recreational resources. Their work includes the operation of the Montour Preserve since 2015, construction of the concrete skatepark at the Hess Recreation Area, construction of more than 11 miles of mountain biking trails at the Hopewell Park/Danville Borough Farm Trail System, development of the Danville Riverfront and Open Space Master Plan, organizing and directing numerous races and special events as well as other projects, according to the foundation.
“The community has continued to benefit from Bob’s leadership, dedication and hard work, and the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event Committee is pleased to honor him with the Pursel Award this year,” the foundation said.
Stoudt will be honored during the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Event on April 20 at the Pine Barn Inn.
The event benefits the Neighbors Helping Neighbors endowment fund at the foundation. Tickets are available for purchase at csgiving.org/neighbors.