Baldwin Park honors local nonprofits, volunteers and indigenous peoples at Dec. 3 meeting

At its Dec. 3 meeting the Baldwin Park City Council presented proclamations and certificates recognizing community volunteers and organizations.

Mayor Alejandra Avila and council members honored the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, Saint John the Baptist Conference (established 10/07/2020) for providing direct assistance to "over 100 families" and noted partner support from Mechanics Bank with donations described in the meeting as totaling $26,500. Conference officers recognized in the proclamation included Cruz Baca (president), Diana Miranda (vice president), Liz Reynoso (treasurer) and Beatriz Sandoval (secretary). Members spoke about confidential assistance to families and outreach work.

The council also recognized Bill Alvarez and Olivia Sanchez as the city's senior parade King and Queen for their volunteer service at the Julie McNeil Senior Center; both received certificates and will participate in the Dec. 6 parade.

Council member Emmanuel Estrada presented a delayed proclamation for Native American Heritage Month (November 2025), honoring the San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians and acknowledging that the council meets on ancestral Tongva land. Gregory Galassie and Samuel Lopez of the tribe thanked the council and promoted a native market event.

These recognitions were ceremonial; no formal policy decisions were tied to the proclamations.