Oakland Park honors volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to making a positive difference in the community

Oakland Park, Florida – The City of Oakland Park recently celebrated the dedication, generosity, and hard work of its outstanding volunteers, recognizing the individuals and teams who go above and beyond to strengthen local programs and enrich community life. Every year, the city takes time to honor those who devote their time, talent, and heart to supporting their neighbors and enhancing the overall quality of life in Oakland Park.

At this year’s celebration, several volunteers and community partners received special recognition for their exceptional contributions. Among them, the Volunteer Team of the Year was awarded to the LGA Class of 2010. For the past 15 years, this group, led by Commissioner Tim Lonergan, has made a lasting difference through their Adopt-A-Street project. Their ongoing efforts to keep Oakland Park clean and inviting have helped beautify neighborhoods while fostering a cleaner, greener environment for all residents.

The Adopt-A-Street initiative, driven by the teamwork and commitment of the LGA Class of 2010, is a model of civic pride. Their consistent volunteer work demonstrates how a dedicated group can make a tangible difference in a community’s appearance and livability. By maintaining public spaces and encouraging neighbors to take pride in their surroundings, this team has become an enduring symbol of volunteerism in Oakland Park.

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The city also recognized the Volunteer Business Partner of the Year, Farm Share, for their extraordinary support of residents facing food insecurity. This year, Farm Share’s team assisted in packaging and delivering monthly meal kits to homebound residents across the city. Their work ensured that hundreds of community members received nutritious food, along with a reminder that they are valued and cared for.

“Farm Share’s partnership reflects the true spirit of volunteerism and community support,” city officials noted. Their commitment to serving some of Oakland Park’s most vulnerable residents exemplifies how businesses can actively contribute to the well-being of their communities, providing both practical help and a sense of connection.

On the individual side, the city honored Youth Volunteer of the Year, Kayla Hernandez, who contributed more than 250 volunteer hours in a single year. Kayla has assisted with programs at the Oakland Park Library and supported numerous citywide events. Known for her reliability, enthusiasm, and positive attitude, Kayla’s dedication exemplifies how young people can lead by example and make a meaningful impact.

“Reliable, kind, and always willing to help, Kayla brings enthusiasm and a positive attitude to every assignment,” officials said. Her genuine care for others and her leadership as a young volunteer are leaving a lasting mark on Oakland Park’s community programs.

The Volunteer of the Year award went to Mary Zalaznik, who logged more than 95 hours of service throughout the year. Mary has played a key role in supporting a variety of city initiatives, including urban farming projects, library services, and citywide programs. Her flexibility, dedication, and supportive nature have made her a trusted partner for staff and fellow volunteers alike.

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Mary’s contributions have been critical to the success of numerous community programs. City officials highlighted that her commitment to helping others not only strengthens the initiatives she supports but also inspires those around her to engage more actively in service.

“The City of Oakland Park extends its heartfelt thanks to these honorees—and to all our volunteers—for the meaningful impact they have on our community every day,” officials said. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds contribute to making Oakland Park a more vibrant, connected, and caring community.

Residents interested in making a difference are encouraged to explore volunteer opportunities with the city. Opportunities range from assisting with community events and library programs to participating in environmental initiatives and public outreach. By dedicating time and energy, volunteers help ensure that Oakland Park remains a welcoming and thriving community for all.

Oakland Park’s annual volunteer recognition event serves as a reminder of the essential role volunteers play in shaping the city’s identity. Through their efforts, the city continues to build a stronger, more cohesive community, demonstrating the power of civic engagement and the importance of giving back.

As the city looks toward the future, volunteer contributions remain a cornerstone of its mission to support residents and enhance quality of life. Each individual and team recognized this year has shown that through dedication, teamwork, and care, one can truly make a lasting impact in the lives of neighbors and in the broader community.