Claudia Nusstein (Genesee County Parks) and Pete Stanbridge (ACORNS) with some of the Junior ACORNS.
Press release/provided photos
Genesee County Parks, Recreation & Forestry and ACORNS (Association for the Conservation of Recreational and Natural Spaces, Inc.) have received a 2026 New York State Tourism Excellence Award from the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA).
The award recognizes the Junior ACORNS program in the Sustainable Stewardship category.
Launched in March 2025 by ACORNS and County park staff, Junior ACORNS gives children ages 7–14 opportunities to care for public parks, learn responsible outdoor practices and build the skills to become future volunteers. The program has grown to include 31 young people and their families, who are making a lasting impact on parks, ecosystems, and wildlife.
Together, ACORNS and Junior ACORNS support conservation and stewardship at Genesee County Park &
Forest and DeWitt Recreation Area.
Founded in 2006, ACORNS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to supporting Genesee County Park and Forest and its Interpretive Nature Center. Through volunteer service, financial support, and conservation education, the organization helps expand the County’s capacity to care for its parks and connect people with nature.
To learn more about joining Junior ACORNS or volunteering, visit www.geneseeny.gov/parks or contact
Claudia Nusstein at (585) 344-1122 or Claudia.Nusstein@geneseeny.gov
Claudia Nusstein (Genesee County Parks) and Pete Stanbridge (ACORNS) with representatives of NYSTIA