City saves more than $350K annually thanks to volunteer workers.

The City of Santa Clarita recently honored volunteers who work events such as the AMGEN Tour, Cowboy Festival and Fourth of July celebrations, as well those who support the city as amateur radio operators and emergency preparedness trainers, participate in youth leadership program and roll up their sleeves for things like Pride Week and the River Rally.

Susana Coronel thanks the volunteers who helped with city projects.

The volunteers enjoyed dinner at the Valencia Country Club and a slide show from various events. Cheers rose from different parts of the room as people spotted their friends or themselves and a collective “awww” sounded when a yellow lab wearing a volunteer shirt was on the screen.

Woman of the Year Judy Penman brought her mother and husband to the banquet

City volunteer coordinator Susana Coronel said that the city has more than 3,000 registered volunteers who donate more than 18,000 hours every year which pencils out to a savings of $350,000.

According to The Independent Sector, the national average value of volunteer work is $19.51 per hour.

“It’s good to have a value of the time and commitment,” said Coronel, “but when you add in the love and dedication, it’s priceless.”

Coronel said that along with the special event participants, there are many volunteers who call her when they have a couple of hours to spare.

“Your dedication inspires me,” she said.

To get involved with the city or the variety of volunteer jobs available from various nonprofits, go to www.VolunteerInSCV.org

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