One of the major accomplishments included in the nomination was earning national accreditation status from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) in Sep. 2017. The department is one of only 166 agencies nationally to hold the recognition and the second county in Georgia to gain accreditation.

Highlights presented in the nomination for outstanding programs included developing the new therapeutic recreation program, offering successful adventure and environmental education programs and providing access to fitness amenities at the recreation centers. Partnerships were also included in the nomination. The department partners with numerous athletic organizations to offer a variety of sports for the community as well as the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce to host the Play at the Park Festival.