From helping seniors navigate Alzheimer’s resources to building homes for families in need and improving access along the American River Parkway, five Sacramento County residents are being recognized for their years of volunteer service and dedication to the community.
Sacramento County’s Adult and Aging Commission announced the recipients of its 2026 “5 Over 50” Awards this week, recognizing individuals over the age of 50 who continue to make a meaningful impact through volunteerism and community leadership. The annual awards honor one volunteer from each county supervisorial district who has demonstrated exceptional service to others.
This year’s honorees represent a wide range of causes across Sacramento County, including senior advocacy, affordable housing, environmental stewardship, community outreach and airport hospitality.
District 1 honoreeAntonia Lopezwas recognized for more than 15 years of service supporting older adults in Sacramento County, particularly within the Spanish-speaking community. Inspired to become involved after her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Lopez began volunteering at the Hart Senior Center, where she helped create programs and activities tailored to Spanish-speaking seniors. She has also coordinated quarterly health education programs in partnership with the UC Davis Alzheimer’s Research Center and the POINTER Study while helping reduce barriers to care through health screenings, adaptive equipment and Paratransit support for seniors.
“I do it as a service for others, but really, it’s a service for me. It keeps me able to do the kind of things that I can do to contribute,” Lopez said of her volunteer work.
District 2 winnerShirley Fongwas honored for contributing nearly 5,000 volunteer hours with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Sacramento. Fong, inspired years ago by volunteer campaigns associated with former President Jimmy Carter, has helped build and improve homes across Sacramento County, learning landscaping, painting and flooring installation along the way. She is currently assisting with affordable housing projects in Citrus Heights.
“I like working with the homeowners; they’re really fun and interesting, and we get to know each other pretty well,” Fong said.
District 3 recipientJodi Sato-Kingwas recognized for her environmental and accessibility advocacy efforts at Sailor Bar along the American River. Working alongside Sacramento County Regional Parks staff, Supervisor Rich Desmond and the nonprofit Friends of Sailor Bar, Sato-King helped raise more than $30,000 to install accessible benches and tables, restore habitat at Turtle Pond and support salmon migration improvements through the removal of a rock dam.
“When we come together and we use our skills and our passion, to be able to enrich this community – especially at Sailor Bar – by making it more accessible and educating people to respect and enjoy nature, that is so rewarding,” Sato-King said.
District 4 honoreeEd Valencia, a longtime Rio Linda resident, was recognized for more than four decades of community service through the Lions Club of Rio Linda. Valencia has held several leadership roles within the organization and has helped lead projects such as Ruby’s Baskets Christmas Program, which supports local families during the holidays.
“Any money we raise in the community, has to go back into the community so we try to help out however we can,” Valencia said.
District 5 winnerDave Kingwas honored for his service as a Sacramento International Airport ambassador since 2017. Known for welcoming and assisting travelers at both Terminal A and Terminal B, King has also encouraged others to volunteer through the airport ambassador program. In addition to his airport service, King regularly donates blood and remains active in community volunteer efforts following retirement.
“It looked like it would be fun [to be an SMF Ambassador] and it has turned out to be a whole lot of fun,” King said. “My friends who come and join enjoy it for the same reason I do – because it’s a positive environment.”
County officials said the award winners represent the importance of staying active, pursuing passions and continuing to give back to the community at every stage of life. The commission also encouraged residents of all ages to explore volunteer opportunities throughout Sacramento County.
Residents interested in volunteering with Sacramento County have a variety of opportunities available. Sacramento County Animal Care Services offers volunteer opportunities supporting shelter operations, animal care and pet adoption efforts, along with fostering opportunities for animals in need. The Department of Child, Family and Adult Services offers volunteer programs such as Gifts from the Heart, supporting children, families and older adults through donation drives, special events and service opportunities.
The Sacramento County Office of Emergency Services also sponsors Sacramento’s Medical Reserve Corps, which provides medical support during large events and emergencies. The program includes licensed healthcare professionals such as physicians, nurses, EMTs, mental health professionals, dentists, veterinarians and pharmacists, while also welcoming volunteers without medical training in areas such as translation, administration and public outreach.
Sacramento International Airport also relies on volunteers to staff its information booths and assist travelers throughout the airport terminals.
County officials said even a few hours of volunteer service can make a meaningful impact and encouraged residents to consider making 2026 a year of giving back through community involvement and public service.
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