Every volunteer brings something unique to California’s state parks. Some know every trail by heart, some never miss a chance to lend a hand, and others keep the volunteer community connected through their kindness and enthusiasm.
This year, we’re celebrating a few of the individuals and teams who have left a lasting impact through their service. Meet our 2026 volunteer honorees!
If you've volunteered at Half Moon Bay State Beach, chances are you've met John Salcido. As a dedicated Volunteer Core Leader, John has spent more than 12 years leading restoration projects, welcoming new and returning volunteers, and sharing his passion for protecting California's coast. His exceptional service was recognized with the Golden Bear Award, a testament to the lasting impact he has made on California's state parks. He seems to know every corner of the park, every tool in the shed, and exactly what it takes to make a workday successful. With more than 400 volunteer hours logged, John brings an unmatched level of knowledge, enthusiasm, and reliability to every event. His leadership, dedication, and years of service have made a lasting impact on both the park and the volunteer community, earning him the title of "Most Likely to Know the Workday by Heart."
Our volunteer community would not be the same without Ada Wong. With more than 200 volunteer workdays completed, Ada has earned a reputation as one of the most dedicated and dependable volunteers in our community. A familiar face at Candlestick Point State Recreation Area and parks across the Bay Area, she consistently shows up ready to lend a hand. Whether she's planting native species, maintaining campgrounds, or picking up trash, Ada approaches every project with enthusiasm, determination, and a genuine commitment to our beloved state parks. With 200 workdays under her belt and no signs of slowing down, it’s easy to see why Ada earned the title of “Most Likely to Never Miss a Workday.”
Karen and Mike Perdue understand that parks are more than trails, trees, and scenic views. They're places where people connect with nature, build community, and create lasting memories. Through their volunteer service at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and Silver Strand State Beach, they've taken on a wide range of projects, always bringing excitement, kindness, and a can-do attitude. Their smiles are infectious, their laughter is constant, and their passion for parks shines through in everything they do. Spend a day volunteering alongside Karen and Mike, and you'll quickly understand why they're our picks for "Most Likely to Convert a Stranger into a Parks Lover."
Together, they remind us that some of the best volunteer memories are made over shared treats and good conversation. That's why they're our picks for “Most Likely to Bring Baked Goods.”
California State Parks Foundation is fortunate to have long-term corporate partners who show up through meaningful action and leave a lasting impact on California’s state parks. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is one such partner who continues to raise the bar. This past year alone, their team has engaged 83 volunteers at 6 parks across the state, contributing more than 250 hours of service and demonstrating an impressive scale of commitment. PG&E’s team stands out for their hard work, strong focus on safety, and positive spirit. No matter how tough the project, they show up ready to dive in, tackle the task at hand, and – without missing a beat – ask, “What’s next?” As a dedicated Earth Day partner for more than a decade, we are proud to present PG&E with the title of “Best Out-of-Office Achievement.”
Some volunteers show up for a workday. Others become part of a park’s story. From longtime volunteers and dedicated leaders to corporate teams and community builders, these recipients reflect the many ways people care for California's state parks. Every one of them helps ensure these special places are protected, cherished, and passed on to future generations.
As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, we extend our heartfelt thanks to every volunteer who gives their time, talents, and passion to California's state parks. Thank YOU for helping write the next chapter of these special places.
Join us in making a difference – one workday, one project, one park at a time: https://www.calparks.org/volunteer.
Your voice and support are crucial for the immediate needs facing our state parks.
