Lancaster’s Impact teen volunteer program wins state community-impact award

Lancaster’s Impact teen volunteer program — which provides skills workshops, leadership committees and a $1,000 scholarship when participants reach 100 hours — was honored Tuesday with a 2025 Community Impact Award of Excellence from the California Park & Recreation Society.

Bailey Zir, the program coordinator in the parks department, told the council Impact currently includes 74 active teens and, over the past year, recorded more than 7,000 collective volunteer hours and distributed roughly $75,000 in scholarships with support from Waste Management. "One of their favorite parts is a $1,000 scholarship when they reach 100 impact hours," Zir said.

Three program participants spoke to the council about personal benefits. "Impact has truly changed me as a person," said Sam, an Impact senior. Callie Swinson and Ombberto Galindo described leadership growth through committees, community cleanups and event production. Council members praised the teens for their service and invited them to the front of chambers for a group photo.

Jenny Worsham, community services manager for the City of Fountain Valley and president of the California Park & Recreation Society, presented the award and commended Impact for connecting youth to civic life. "By empowering young people to lead and belong, Impact is building stronger connections and a brighter future in Lancaster," Worsham said.

Why it matters: The award recognizes the program’s scale and community reach — regular staffing support for large city events, partnerships with nonprofits and recurring volunteer activities — and underscores the city’s investment in youth development.

What’s next: Staff will continue to seek partnerships and prepare for the program’s upcoming season of events and workshops.