SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — Families, community leaders, performers, and local officials gathered at the Old Town Newhall Library to celebrate National Parents Day, recognizing the important role parents play in strengthening families and communities across Southern California.
The event was organized and sponsored by Charlie Designs – A Whole New World 501(c)(3) and welcomed guests from throughout the region for an afternoon dedicated to honoring parents whose commitment, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on those around them.
Representing the City of Santa Clarita, Mayor Laurene Weste attended the celebration and personally greeted many of the honorees as they received their awards. Throughout the ceremony, parents were recognized for their dedication to family, mentorship, and community involvement.
A total of 12 Parent of the Year Awards were presented during the event, highlighting individuals whose efforts have inspired others through their compassion, perseverance, and commitment to raising future generations. In addition, eight Ambassadors for Peace Awards were presented to individuals recognized for promoting unity, kindness, and positive community engagement.
The celebration also featured several live musical performances that helped create a festive atmosphere for attendees.
Recording artist Stonii opened the program with a performance of The Star-Spangled Banner, setting a patriotic tone for the ceremony. Abby Savell entertained guests with a steel drum performance, while Apache Daklugie performed on the flute, adding another unique musical element to the afternoon’s program.
Event production support was provided by Don Terell, who supplied the concert sound equipment used throughout the celebration, helping ensure performances and presentations reached attendees gathered inside the library venue.
The event was documented by Shake Downz Productionz LLC and photographer Imani Hadden, preserving moments from the awards presentations, performances, and community gathering.
National Parents Day, observed annually in the United States, recognizes the lifelong contributions parents make in nurturing children, strengthening families, and building healthier communities. Events such as Santa Clarita’s celebration provide an opportunity to publicly acknowledge those whose dedication often takes place quietly behind the scenes.
Recent Event with Charlie Designs below:
Organizers emphasized that honoring parents extends beyond individual recognition—it also serves as a reminder of the lasting influence families have on neighborhoods, schools, and future generations.
With civic leaders, artists, volunteers, and community members coming together under one roof, the National Parents Day celebration reflected the importance of gratitude, service, and recognizing those whose commitment to family continues to shape communities for years to come.
Photography: Shake Downz Productionz LLC and Imani Hadden.
