Gina Marino, supervisor of the West Hartford Senior Centers, received the 2020 Outstanding Professional Award from the Connecticut Recreation & Parks Association.

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Gina Marino, the supervisor of the West Hartford Senior Centers, received the 2020 Outstanding Professional Award by the Connecticut Recreation & Parks Association at their annual meeting on Nov. 24.

Marino has worked for the Town of West Hartford’s Leisure Services Department for 32 years, first as supervisor of the Elmwood Senior Center, then as the Director of the West Hartford Senior Center in the Bishops Corner neighborhood. She currently oversees both senior center locations in West Hartford.

West Hartford Town Manager Matt Hart supported her nomination for the honor, stating, “Gina is an exceptional professional and we are fortunate to have her as a member of our team.” 

In her stellar career in West Hartford, Marino has always exceeded expectations. In the areas of programming, fundraising, administration and compassionate customer service, Marino has consistently surpassed her goals.

“She has provided the community, the municipal government, the Senior Center membership and her colleagues with sensitivity and steadfast commitment,” said Helen Rubino-Turco, the director of Leisure Services and Social Services for the Town of West Hartford. Rubino-Turco, who nominated Marino for the CRPA award, received numerous testimonials from her peers throughout the state in support of the nomination. “Each one used the word ‘exceptional,’” she said. “She’s a joy to work with.”

Most recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Marino and her team have distributed twice-weekly communications to Senior Center members and others that are chock full of interesting, virtual programs, zoom workouts, links to arts performances or author talks, or virtual tours. “Happening This Week” and “Friday Fun” keep seniors connected and entertained.

While the senior centers have been closed, Marino has maintained vital connections to the senior community to keep them engaged, entertained and informed.

Marino serves on the Board of the Rocky Hill Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, where she resides, and the Bishops Corner Neighborhood Association’s Advisory Committee in West Hartford.

“She’s always ready, willing and able to help, to lead or to cheer.” said Rubino-Turco. “Whatever she does, she accomplishes it with compassion and a smile.”

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