Park Authority recognizes exemplary volunteers
The Fairfax County Park Authority has honored 17 individuals and entities with 2026 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards, including three volunteers who have supported parks in Mason District.
The Elly Doyle awards recognize “exceptional service and contributions to the county’s parks, natural and cultural resources, and recreational opportunities.”
Green Spring Gardens volunteer Susan Voss received an Elly Doyle Award in recognition of her 30 years of work to ensure the park will “remain vibrant, attractive and welcoming to all visitors.”
A Special Recognition Award is being presented to Lassine Doumbia Fakoli, who has served as the lead volunteer and host for the Spotlight by Starlight cultural heritage performances at Ossian Hall Park in Annandale since 2007.
“With a passion for education, nature and the park system, he has played an integral role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for performers and guests alike,” the Park Authority states.
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Youth Award recipient Juliet Phillips was honored for her leadership in site stewardship projects to help protect natural and cultural resources at the Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Annandale. She helped repair and restore the park’s model of a woodland Indian scarecrow hut and designed and built an exercise board for snakes.
View the full list of award winners here.
The Elly Doyle Park Service Awards were launched in 1988 to honor the legacy of Ellamae “Elly” Doyle, whose leadership as a member and chair of the Park Authority Board helped expand the park system, preserve open space, and enhance recreational facilities across Fairfax County.
This year’s honorees will be honored at a recognition ceremony in October sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation.
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