FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – The City of Fort Wayne’s Greenways and Trails Department has named Reverand John P. Gardner as Trail Volunteer of the Year for 2024.
“The greenways and trails in Fort Wayne are a huge community asset that add to the quality of life in our community. There is an immense amount of satisfaction volunteering as a Ranger, helping keep our city trails safe, secure, and clean,” said Gardner.
The City released the following:
Rev. Gardner started his volunteer work as a Greenway Ranger in 2018. Gardner oversees a section of the Pufferbelly Trail and was nominated and ultimately selected for his commitment to the trail system and open communication with City staff about the section of the Pufferbelly that he helps oversee. His efforts include a weekly text message to update the condition of the Pufferbelly Trail from downtown to State Boulevard and photos of areas of the trail that may need attention.
Rev. Gardner is a semi-retired pastor/teacher in the United Church of Christ. Ordained in 1980, he served as Senior Minister of Plymouth Congregational Church in Fort Wayne from 1998-2018. He’s also a mayoral appointee as a commissioner on the Fort Wayne Metropolitan Human Relations Commission. When not engaged in church work or community service, Gardner can be found working for the Parks and Recreation Department on the Sweet Breeze Canal Boat.
In recognition of Gardner, a Bur Oak tree was planted and a marker with Gardner’s name was installed along the Pufferbelly Trail.
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