In a recent council meeting, community leaders and volunteers gathered to celebrate the success of Rancho Cordova's inaugural Spring Service Day, held on May 18. The event, which aimed to foster civic engagement and promote local nonprofits, saw participation from over 300 volunteers who took on 15 projects throughout the city.
Loriann Carl, who presented the update, highlighted the day’s achievements, including engaging both new and existing volunteers, and fostering a sense of community pride. The event was particularly meaningful for members of Leadership Class 14, who had initially planned the project before the pandemic disrupted their efforts. Jen Larratt, a representative from the class, expressed gratitude for the support received from the city, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting volunteers with local organizations.
Among the notable contributions was the Rancho Cordova football team, which assembled 1,200 toiletry bags for unhoused residents and packed grocery bags for those facing food insecurity. Inez Shedd, the Program and Outreach Manager for the Rancho Cordova Food Locker, praised the team's dedication and highlighted the lasting impact of their service, as many team members signed up to volunteer regularly.
Residents also shared their positive experiences, with Annalene Myers noting the variety of volunteer opportunities available, which catered to different skill levels. Missy McDougall from Clutch, one of the event's title sponsors, expressed pride in the community's efforts and the event's success, while Rob Sykes from Atlas Disposal echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the joy of serving alongside residents.
The meeting concluded with a video showcasing the day’s activities, reinforcing the message that when the community comes together, remarkable things can be achieved. The council and attendees left inspired to continue building a stronger, more compassionate Rancho Cordova.