California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence Archive

Palmdale’s Season of Service Puts Volunteers to Work

Palmdale gives residents a way to help address critical infrastructure challenges.

Menifee’s Youth Advisory Committee Boosts the Community

The committee advises the council and participates in local events.

Carlsbad Focuses on Economic Opportunities in High-Tech Sectors

A city biotech incubator, a talent attraction campaign and a higher education initiative for workforce development help foster economic growth.

by Christina Vincent

Sanger Collaborates to Prepare Its Workforce

The city worked with its major employers, the local transit agency and Reedley College to address a shortage of workers with needed skills.

Arts and Entertainment District Boosts Santa Clarita’s Economy

The city revitalized a historic neighborhood using public infrastructure improvements, economic development and the arts to attract new visitors, shoppers and businesses.

Rocklin Matches Volunteers With Those in Need

A web-based volunteer recruitment tool meets the needs of the city’s residents and its community partners.

Cathedral City’s Garden Program Takes a Fresh Approach to Health

The program offers an enjoyable way for children and adults to learn organic gardening, be physically active, make smart food choices and work together.

La Mesa’s Seniors Help With Safe Routes to School

The city recruited seniors to supervise and support students as they walk or bike to and from school.

Clovis Builds Dry Creek Trailhead to Educate and Connect the Community

The City of Clovis transformed a three-acre unimproved lot into an educational community recreation area that protects natural resources and promotes healthy living.

Salinas Fosters Ag Tech Innovation

Technology will soon be radically transforming agriculture and the Salinas Valley, home to an agricultural industry that generates over $8 billion annually.