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Recreator of the Year

2015 Recreator of the Year: Betsy Fan

The City of Fort Collins Recreation Department’s vision and mission statements are based on one core value; providing you with recreational opportunities that enhance your life. Recreation’s vision is: “World-class recreation services which inspire people to lead engaged healthy lives.”  Recreation’s mission is: “Fostering health and well-being through diverse and inclusive recreation opportunities, sustainable planning, and community partnerships.” These carefully crafted statements guide the department’s goals and help create a department-wide sense of purpose. Recognizing the diverse benefits of recreation, we have selected a “Recreator of the Year” that has accomplished much through Recreation programs, events and activities. The 2015 Recreator of the Year provides us with a complete understanding of why recreation is important in our community and what we can gain from living an active lifestyle.

In 2014, Recreation presented Jackson Harding with the Recreator of the Year honor. Jackson’s ability to have fun, stay active and pursue goals should be applauded and embraced by all recreators. Jackson has represented Recreation’s values, mission and purpose well over the past year. Thank you, Jackson, for continuing to be a great role model and an incredible Recreator.

The City of Fort Collins Recreation Department is proud to present our 2015 Recreator of the Year award to Betsy Fan. Betsy is an 11 year old, fifth grader with an incredible smile, high energy and an amazing attitude. Betsy attends Werner Elementary in Fort Collins and is always on the move. Betsy was 6 years old when she began participating in Recreation programs. She has been involved in a variety of programs and enjoys learning and staying active. Betsy’s involvement in Recreation programs is diverse and impressive. She frequently participates in Adaptive Recreation Opportunities (ARO) programming. The ARO program provides quality recreational opportunities to community members with disabilities. Betsy requires special needs and support from ARO so that she can fully participate in recreational programs. Support from ARO has helped Betsy pursue many hours of recreational activities and programs.   

We were introduced to Betsy in 2009 when she enrolled in Tumble Bumbles with Recreation. Initially, her parents were concerned that she would not be able to participate in the program. Betsy’s mother, Jian Ping, discovered Recreation’s ARO program and with their support, Betsy began her recreational journey. As Betsy gained confidence, her skills strengthened and ARO’s support wasn’t needed as often. Eventually, Betsy participated in Tumble Bumbles with minimal support from ARO.  Since Tumble Bumbles, Betsy has participated in numerous programs found in the “Recreator.” From Petite Ballet and Adventure Camp to Adaptive Ice Skating and Swimming, Betsy is a frequent visitor at many Recreation Centers. Her favorite program was Farm Camp. She enjoyed experiencing life on the Farm and interacting with the animals. Betsy’s parents enjoy the diversity of program options provided by Recreation, as well. Betsy’s mother believes that every program provides something different. Jian says, “We do love all the programs; every program offers its own uniqueness…which is great.” 

Betsy’s parents believe that exposing her to ever possible opportunity will enhance her life and provide her valuable access to new and exciting possibilities. Her parents are thankful for ARO and the incredible support they have received over the years. Jian Ping believes that ARO staff members are very skilled and she feels that Betsy is safe and enjoys the programs. “Knowing my child is in good hands makes me feel comfortable,” says Jian. Betsy’s desire to learn and grow helps her achieve her personal goals. ARO encourages her to reach those goals by supporting her as much as possible.

Outside of Recreation programs, Betsy is an avid bingo player and is most comfortable at home playing with her stuffed animals.  She also enjoys therapeutic horseback riding and music therapy. In her spare time, she may be found searching through YouTube to find a new cooking class. Betsy’s recreational plans for the future include more swim lessons, camps, cooking classes and art.  It’s obvious that Betsy’s energy level is high and her desire to learn is strong.

Betsy’s positivity drives her desire to learn, grow and stay active. Her amazing smile will warm your heart, and her determination and energy will motivate you. We can learn a lot from Betsy’s ability to enjoy life and achieve goals. We’re proud to call Betsy Fan our 2015 Recreator of the Year.

What is Recreator of the Year?

In 2013 the City of Fort Collins Recreation Department introduced the Recreator of the Year community recognition program. This community inspired project selects an individual or individuals that represent Recreations values and dedication to living a positive, active and engaged lifestyle. Recreators are community members that participate in Recreation programs or utilize City of Fort Collins Recreation facilities.