The Eaton Area Park & Recreation District is pleased to introduce Sara Mendez as our new Executive Director. Sara brings over 13 years of experience in public parks and recreation from a career focused on community service, program delivery, facility operations, and organizational leadership. 

Eaton Area Community,

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join the Eaton Area Park & Recreation District as Executive Director and to serve a community-driven District that is so connected, caring, and proud of its people and programs.

I was drawn to EAPRD because of its strong reputation, clear mission, and the genuine value this community places on parks and recreation. The District truly serves as the heartbeat of the community and is a place where people connect, grow, recharge, and belong. I am excited to support our dedicated staff, build on the great work already underway, and continue growing programs, facilities, and services that enhance quality of life for residents of all ages.

My professional journey in recreation began in 2012 as a Summer Camp Counselor, where I began to discover my passion for creating welcoming, meaningful experiences for the community. For the past ten years, I have worked with the City of Fort Collins Recreation Department, overseeing multiple program areas and major recreation facilities while supporting a talented team committed to high-quality service and positive customer experiences. My work has included strategic planning, budgeting, staff leadership and development, capital project planning, and day-to-day operations within a large municipal recreation system.

My family and I moved to the Eaton area in 2019 and quickly fell in love with the strong sense of pride and connection that defines this community. Eaton is a place where people genuinely care about their schools, programs, and shared spaces, and most importantly, about one another. When choosing a place to call home, I wanted my children to experience the benefits of a close-knit, small-town community, something I was fortunate to grow up with myself.

I see the District and its campus as a true gem for our community, made even more special by the trust, love, and support residents place in the services we provide. That trust is both an honor and a responsibility I take seriously.

I have always believed that parks and recreation are more than amenities; they are essential community services that support physical health, mental well-being, youth and adult development, and social connection. Seeing recreation bring people together, kids building confidence, families creating memories, and community members finding a sense of belonging is the most rewarding part of my work. I also take great pride in leading teams who care deeply about service and creating experiences that truly make a difference.

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Eaton Area Park & Recreation District and look forward to listening, learning, collaborating, and building strong relationships across the community. I am excited to partner with the Board, staff, and community members to ensure a recreation system Eaton can be proud of, now and well into the future.

Warmest regards, 

Sara Mendez
Executive Director
Eaton Area Park & Recreation District
saramendez@eaprd.com