🎙️ Episode Title:

Community Passion: Building a Recreation Legacy

💭 Episode Description:

From mowing lawns at the local park to co-directing a thriving recreation department- Ellie Gravell’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and people-first leadership. In this episode, Ellie shares how growing up in Malone and loving sports led to a lifelong career in community recreation. Discover how programs like art lessons, fun runs, kayaking, and movie nights bring people together, and hear the excitement behind opening a brand-new community pool. Ellie also shares the challenges of limited resources, the importance of inclusivity, and her vision for expanding opportunities for all ages in the North Country.

👤 Guest Information:

Name: Ellie Gravell

Title: Co-Director, Malone Recreation Department

Hometown: Malone, NY

Background:

• Grew up deeply involved in sports and community activities
• Started at 17 as a park laborer
• Advanced to Assistant Director, now Co-Director of Rec Department
• Passionate about creating inclusive, community-centered programs
• Connect with Ellie: Malone Rec Park Facebook Page | Village of Malone Website

⏱️ Episode Highlights:

[00:00:23] Early Roots

Love for sports and first job as a park maintenance worker at 17.

[00:02:30] Following Passion

How enjoyment and community involvement guided her career.

[00:05:30] Energized by the Work

“I was energized by going to work every day… I loved being there.”

[00:10:00] Expanding Programs

From chalk art and biking to kayaking and pickleball—accessible activities for everyone.

[00:10:45] Community Connection

“It’s super cool to see the whole community come together.”

[00:20:00] Inclusivity Challenges

Designing programs that work for kids of all ages.

[00:30:00] Vision for Growth

Excitement about new pool, upgraded fields, and future indoor facilities.

[00:40:00] Impact Stories

How recreation creates joy and opportunities for families and children.

[00:45:10] The Power of Community

“The new pool is 100% community donated… it’s going to be really, really fun.”

[01:20:00] Music & Memories

Live music nights—free, family-friendly, and beloved by all generations.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

• Malone Rec Park Facebook Page
• Village of Malone Website

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Following your passion can lead to unexpected leadership opportunities
• Recreation builds stronger, more connected communities
• Inclusivity means designing programs for every age and ability
• Community-driven projects, like the new pool, create lasting legacies
• The future of recreation is about innovation, creativity, and togetherness

💬 Social Media Quotes:

"I was energized by going to work every day… I loved being there." – Ellie Gravell

"It’s super cool to see the whole community come together." – Ellie Gravell

"We do a lot and I think our programs have grown a lot in the last few years… Any kid ever wants it, it’s free to just go grab it, bring it back." – Ellie Gravell

"The new pool is 100% community donated… it’s going to be really, really fun and I’m super excited about it." – Ellie Gravell

"I love music… I see the kids, I see the grandparents, I see the whole family. There’s live music that’s also so free and it’s actually really well attended." – Ellie Gravell

📣 Call to Action:

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