The City of Los Alamitos and the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts Commission proudly hosted the 2025 Los Alamitos Volunteer Program (L.A.V.P.) Scholarship Awards Presentation, recognizing three remarkable young volunteers for their exceptional service and leadership.
The Los Alamitos Volunteer Program (L.A.V.P.) is a year-round youth volunteer initiative that engages over 100 volunteers ages 11–17 in meaningful community service. With 105 active participants, the program provides hands-on experience in teamwork, leadership, job skills, and civic involvement. From supporting youth programs and special events to enhancing City operations, L.A.V.P. volunteers are vital contributors to Los Alamitos’ vibrant community life.
More than just a volunteer initiative, L.A.V.P. is designed to equip its members with lifelong professional and personal development tools. Through workshops, mentorship, and real-world training, youth participants build their resumes, develop leadership abilities, and forge meaningful connections with peers and community leaders.
The 2025 L.A.V.P. Scholarship Awards celebrate members who have gone above and beyond in service, self-reflection, and commitment to the program’s values. Families, friends, and City officials gathered to honor three outstanding scholarship recipients:
Ariana Hernandez, 8th Grade
The Los Alamitos Volunteer Program (L.A.V.P.) is a year-round youth volunteer initiative that engages over 100 volunteers ages 11–17 in meaningful community service.
In her first year with L.A.V.P., Ariana completed 41 hours of service across a variety of programs, including the front office, Lil’ Oak Preschool Program, day and specialty camps, youth sports, and nonprofit projects. Known for her dependability and compassion, Ariana brings a consistently positive attitude to every task.
Ariana’s scholarship essay, submitted under the Environmental Conservation prompt, described how she led a successful initiative to replace Styrofoam lunch trays at her school with reusable alternatives. Her advocacy to the Superintendent and School Board resulted in real environmental change on her campus.
Decker McCoy, 7th Grade
In his first year, Decker contributed 71 volunteer hours to programs including day camps, Serve Los Al, Trunk or Treat, and the 3rd of July Fireworks Spectacular. His upbeat personality, paired with his focus and efficiency, made him standout among both participants and fellow volunteers.
Decker’s essay, submitted under the Leadership prompt, reflected on his experiences in ASB, his baseball league, and his church. Through these roles, he applied skills developed in L.A.V.P. to foster encouragement, inclusion, and personal growth in others, demonstrating what it truly means to lead by example.
Lexi Rock, 8th Grade
A two-year L.A.V.P. member with 70 hours of service, Lexi has supported programs including Lil’ Oak Preschool Program, day camps, and community events. She is widely admired for her kindness, reliability, and the uplifting energy she brings to every assignment.
Lexi submitted a video under the Self-Discovery Through Creativity prompt. Her artistic piece featured a girl swimming through a world of childhood book pages and meaningful phrases, symbolizing Lexi’s journey of self-growth, resilience, and the setting of healthy boundaries through creativity and reflection.
“We are thrilled to recognize three outstanding scholarship recipients here with us today, joined by their families and loved ones,” said Samantha Kenny, Recreation Coordinator. “Each of these students has demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and compassion through their volunteer work and thoughtful scholarship submissions.”
Following the award ceremony, recipients joined Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts Commissioners for a group photo to commemorate the occasion.
The City of Los Alamitos congratulates Ariana Hernandez, Decker McCoy, and Lexi Rock on their well-earned scholarships and thanks all L.A.V.P. participants for their continued dedication to service and leadership.
For additional information, please visit the Recreation & Community Services website at www.cityoflosalamitos.org/recreation or contact the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430-1073.