Six residents who have shown exceptional service to the City of Coral Springs through volunteerism were recognized at the City Commission Meeting on Wednesday, April 19 as recipients of the Lynne Johnson Awards.
The award was named after Lynne Johnson, a devoted, long-time city volunteer who passed away in 2009. The volunteers recognized this year are:
Youth Making a Difference Category Winner: Julia Fox
Julia has been instrumental in organizing service efforts for the National Honor Society by cleaning parks, bus stops, canals, and by keeping her group active with Keep Coral Springs Beautiful. Julia has also organized her team to pick up dangerous debris that is left in parks overnight so young children are not exposed to it. Her service is done from the heart, and she is an inspiration to those she meets.
Seniors Making a Difference Category Winner: William “Bill” Vasquez
Bill has been involved for many years with the Veterans Coalition of Coral Springs. He also regularly conducts lectures and presentations at the Coral Spring Senior Center. He is currently serving as a 60th Anniversary Ambassador for the city, and through that, volunteers for city events. His work with the Veterans Coalition has impacted many lives as he continues to share his pride and commitment for his fellow veterans.
Enhancing the Lives of Coral Springs Residents: Sandy Lobel
Sandy is a long-time member of the Community Involved Government Committee and also serves as a 60th Anniversary Ambassador for the city. She is also involved in cleaning up city waterways. Sandy is warm and welcoming to new residents (young and old) and encourages them to become involved in the city. She volunteers for city events, spreading joy to those around her.
Working with Youth in Sports Category Winner: Jennifer Brown
Jennifer has been involved in youth sports for many years in Coral Springs and has spent countless hours working behind the scenes as a member of the Youth Softball Board. She has helped to re-invigorate the recreational program, organizing enhanced ceremonies and programs. After the pandemic, when registrations had dwindled, Jennifer was instrumental in re-opening concessions and planning for registration and photo days for young female athletes. She gives her all even through challenging times and gives so much to the youth in our community.
Committed to Enhancing City Services Category Winner: Scott Smith
Scott is a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and his enthusiasm and willingness to help are contagious. Scott supports the professional first responders at extended events like fire scenes and mass casualty incidents. He has recruited other students to take the CERT Basic Training Academy and helped organize a fundraiser for CERT at his high school. He serves as a great example to other students.
Enhancing and Preserving the Natural Environment in Coral Springs Category Winner: Jessica Argumedo
Jessica has been involved in getting the Coral Springs Youth Soccer league involved with the Keep Coral Springs Beautiful program to keep the area around Mullins Park clean. She firmly believes that youth can recognize the value of serving others and begin a lifetime of helping others. Her caring nature and love for others is a great asset in making new families into the soccer world feel welcome and excited about getting involved in the community.
The City of Coral Springs encourages volunteerism for people of all ages and values their contributions to make Coral Springs the premiere city in which to live, work and raise a family.