On Monday, October 30, the City of Oceanside recognized seniors that were nominated for the Senior Volunteer of the Year during a lunch celebration at the Country Club Senior Center.  Mayor Esther Sanchez presented recipient Diane Nygaard with a proclamation.

The Oceanside Parks and Recreation Department received six nominations and a committee of Parks and Recreation Commissioners selected Ms. Nygaard as the Senior Volunteer of the Year.  Diane is an environmentalist and has been a strong advocate for the dedication of parkland in Oceanside.  She was instrumental in the formation of the Friends of El Corazon and the Preserve Calavera non-profit, and has been a strong ally to the San Luis Rey Band of Mission Indians.  She played an important role in the development of the City's El Corazon Specific Plan, and champions current and future development of the City property.

Other notable volunteers were honored at the event:

Lacy Gayle was nominated for her volunteer work with the Oceanside Women’s club, Project Hope, and Brother Benno’s. 

Elizabeth de Roulet was nominated for leading a volunteer team in North County to introduce several AARP programs for seniors.

Steven Burrell was nominated for his efforts as a community leader and advocate for creating livable communities, LGBTQ+ rights, combating food insecurity, and intergenerational programs.

Genevieve Wunder was nominated for her service as a Board Member with the Friends of the Library and the Parks and Recreation Commission. She also volunteers with the Filipino American Cultural Organization, Education Begins at Home, Save our Streets, Friends of El Corazon, AARP, Women’s Club of Oceanside, Empowering Latino Future, St. Mary’s Star of the Sea, Friends of Oceanside Parks, and the Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation.

Rene Tarver was nominated for her volunteer efforts to help underserved communities, particularly with housing programs and helping single women purchase their first home.

The Oceanside Parks and Recreation Department also relies on volunteers to provide the “Go Oceanside” program, which provides free transportation for seniors who do not have a ride to get to medical appointments or the grocery store.  The program provides 125 - 150 rides each month.  The Department also provides taxi vouchers to help seniors move around town.  For more information about the program or to become a volunteer, please call (760) 435-5155 or visit the webpage.