San Angelo Park Unveils New Programs for Older Adults

San Angelo Park is now home to an exciting new space dedicated to older adults in the Avocado Heights community.

On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, less than fourteen months after the County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors adopted Supervisor Hilda Solis’ motion to enhance services for older adults in the area, dozens of community members gathered to celebrate the grand opening of this dedicated space and the start of a variety of new programs at San Angelo Park.

Supervisor Solis, alongside Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department Director Dr. Laura Trejo and County of Los Angeles Parks & Recreation Director Norma Edith García-Gonzalez, welcomed the local community at an open house event. This celebration marked the beginning of a new chapter for the park, which now offers a range of activities and resources tailored specifically for adults aged 55 and older.

Residents can now participate in lifelong learning opportunities, build social connections, and engage in activities that keep their minds sharp, bodies healthy, and spirits thriving. Programs include social hours, excursions, special events, educational workshops, exercise classes, volunteer opportunities, and cultural dances, among others. This new space is more than just a place to gather—it’s a hub where older adults can access essential resources and explore a variety of interests.

During the event, Supervisor Solis reflected on her deep roots in the area and the importance of having these programs and facilities accessible to local residents. To further support the initiative, she presented a check for $108,534 from her [First] District’s discretionary fund.

García-Gonzalez emphasized the significant role that programs like these play in enhancing the health and quality of life for older adults. Dr. Trejo highlighted the importance of maintaining the park’s existing youth programs, ensuring that San Angelo Park remains an intergenerational space where every community member can thrive. “Every community is different in what it wants and what it needs. We work with the community to figure it out,” Dr. Trejo noted.

The creation of these new programs was driven by the June 6, 2023, motion adopted by the County Board of Supervisors, which recognized the growing needs of the area’s older adult population and those living with disabilities. This effort was further shaped by a focus group session held at San Angelo Park on July 25, 2023, where local older adults shared their needs and priorities, providing invaluable input that helped guide the development of the programs.

San Angelo Park, located in the unincorporated community of Avocado Heights, continues to be a vibrant space for all ages, featuring a playground, fitness zone, and splashpad for children to enjoy during the summer. The park is located at 245 S. San Angelo Avenue, La Puente, CA 91746.

To get involved in the new programs for older adults or to learn more, call (626) 333-6162 or e-mail seniorrecreation@parks.lacounty.gov.