One of the best parts of living in Valparaiso is the wealth of activities available to everyone. From markets to music and movies downtown to food drives— there’s always something going on to fill the day. Parents and kids alike can send a collective “thank you” to Lisa Baisden’s way, because she has her hand in a lot those activities.
Baisden works for the Valparaiso Parks and Recreation Department. As Youth Recreation Director, it’s Baisden’s responsibility to organize all the events geared toward our younger friends that take place in conjunction with Valpo Parks. Such event include youth sports, afterschool programs, and youth special events, such as the upcoming Project Lightning Bug at Valpo Night Ride, hosted in part by Metro Recycling. Attendees will learn bike safety tips and receive education on clean air quality initiatives.
Baisden may have her work cut out for her, but she loves her job.
“I’m able to give back and serve the community where I grew up and be involved with the programs that I grew up with,” Baisden said. “I love seeing the next generation of parks kids experience new and exciting parks and programs.”
The Valparaiso area particularly stands out to Baisden as a place where families and kids can grow.
“It’s an amazing family place,” Baisden said. “The location is great, and it is constantly being revitalized. This community really comes together to make Valpo a great area for anyone to live. From special community events, to just everyday experiences… there really is something for everyone to enjoy.”
Outside of work, Baisden also enjoys cooking and hitting the softball field. Baisden cherishes sharing her free time with others, such as her fiancé, Steve Hutton, and their dog, Dixie. Naturally, they love being outdoors.
“Family is also very important to me,” Baisden said. “You can often find us with one of our nieces or nephews.”
Baisden credits her family with shaping her into the person she is today.
“My family has made a huge impact on me,” Baisden said. “They have been such great role models, and inspirations, who supported me with my goals from day one. They showed me the meanings of dedication, hard work, honor, and leadership, just to name a few. I’m so grateful and fortunate to have them in my life.”
The mission of the Valparaiso Parks and Recreation Department is to be a leading partner in preserving, developing, and promoting Valparaiso's unique quality of life. If the activities Baisden helps organize are any indication, the department is knocking it out of the park (pun intended.) Judging by Baisden’s efficient and timely manner, she more than exemplifies some of Valparaiso Parks and Recreation Department’s key values: boldly proactive, honestly accountable, respectfully compassionate, and surprisingly responsive. Keep up the good work, Baisden!
For more information about the Valparaiso Parks and Recreation Department, please visit www.valpoparks.org.
