By Dave Thomas • Times of San Diego
Copyright timesofsandiego
Volunteer work can be one of the most rewarding things an individual can do in their life, and when it comes to volunteering, La Mesan Carol Lockwood takes a back seat to no one.
The longtime area resident will be honored this Thursday morning by the city of La Mesa for all she has given back to the community over the years. The honor will be in the form of a star in her name on the “Walkway of the Stars.”
Lockwood has given more than 10,000 volunteer hours to the city over time. This includes a range of projects, time spent on committees, and involvement with various organizations.
“Carol Lockwood has been an invaluable asset to our community for over two decades,” said La Mesa Mayor Mark Arapostathis.
“As a longtime volunteer, Carol has devoted thousands of hours to making our city a better place, especially through her work with the La Mesa Adult Enrichment Center and her leadership in various community initiatives.
“She’s a role model for others, demonstrating what it means to give back to your community with kindness and commitment.”
A teacher at Grossmont High School for three decades, Lockwood has had a profoundly positive effect on both young and old in the local community.
While she is no longer a teacher, she still teaches in the community. Lockwood teaches ceramics at the La Mesa Adult Enrichment Center, marking nearly a quarter-century of sharing her love of ceramics with others.
“Volunteers like Carol are the heart and soul of our community,” Arapostathis said. “They provide essential support to programs that might otherwise not be possible, and they bring a level of dedication that’s unmatched.”
For Lockwood, making a difference all these years is something she is quite proud of, especially in the community she calls home.
“What I like most about La Mesa is its size, nine square miles,” Lockwood said. “It has everything you really need. You can go to the City Council meetings and have your voice be heard and speak to the different city employees. You can become active in various city commissions and feel really a part of the community.”
When it comes to her volunteer work, Lockwood said that she has had a few favorites over time.
“You asked about my favorite projects which would be the dog park in Harry Griffin Park, the development of Briercrest Park, which was planned as a passive park with no organized sports, just a place for hospital patients and families for relaxation for the senses, special gardens for fragrance, taste {herb}, music and gentle walking paths,” Lockwood said.
“We were fortunate to hire James Hubbell to design the many special art installations. Working on the Centennial Committee and hiring Jesse, Mary Lynn, and Amy Dominguez to design The Lookout Park (corner of Allison and La Mesa Blvd.), where the time capsule is housed. The Flag Day Parade. These projects were developed during my 18 years on the Community Services Commission.”
Lockwood added that she was surprised to get such an honor this week.
“Yes, I was surprised because years ago I spoke to Art Madrid (former mayor) about the fact that volunteer hours were only counted if you volunteered where there was a time clock,” Lockwood said.
“The rest of us who worked independently weren’t kept track of. I said it wasn’t fair, and he said life isn’t fair. So I was surprised when Megan Howell, Enrichment Center director, was able to take notice. It means a lot to me.
“Years ago, I joined Alpha Gamma Delta at UCLA and pledged ‘To contribute to the world’s work in the community, which I am placed because of the joy of service, thereby bestowed and the talent of leadership multiplied.’”
Asked how others can get involved in La Mesa or any community they call home, Lockwood advised that, “Getting started can start at your school, your church, watch for announcements on the city website. Feel confident that you will be appreciated.”
“Carol’s contributions are a testament to the power of volunteerism in La Mesa,” said Arapostathis. “Our city thrives because of individuals who go above and beyond to help their neighbors, improve our public spaces, and enrich the lives of others.
“Volunteers not only strengthen our community but also inspire others to get involved. The impact they have is immeasurable.”
This Thursday’s event will take place at 11:30 a.m. at the La Mesa Walkway of the Stars, 8338 La Mesa Boulevard. Parking is available in the Allison Avenue parking lot, located at Allison and Palm Avenues. The public is invited to attend.
Parking will be available in the Allison Avenue parking lot, located at Allison and Palm.
