We’re partnering with News Channel 12 to honor nonprofit volunteers who make our community thrive. Each month, we’re choosing a different nonprofit and asking them to select a valuable volunteer to receive the SESLOC Cares for Community Award. We are thrilled to introduce our latest recipient, Judy Garrett, from the Santa Maria Natural History Museum.
We are proud to present the SESLOC Community Cares Award to Judy Garrett. Judy has been a pillar of the Santa Maria community, devoting her time and energy to many local organizations.
Judy’s dedication to the community started by joining Buena Vista Beautifiers, which sought to preserve historic skyline trees and improve Santa Maria’s oldest park. This led to her activity in several other groups, including the Minerva Club, the League of Women Voters, and the Santa Maria Natural History Museum.
Living close to the Natural History Museum, Judy soon became the person to call when volunteers needed help. She would soon take over membership duties and expanded the member base exponentially through her wide network in the community. With her experience, she would ultimately be elected president of the Natural History Museum and served in that office for five years. As president, she took over operations of the volunteer-run organization, as well as continuing her work in expanding membership.
Among her achievements is securing several grants to expand the museum’s exhibits, from the Native Garden to providing free field trips for schools. In 2025, she was given the title of “President Emeritus” by the Natural History Museum for her years of dedication to keeping the museum free and accessible to all.
Judy’s passion and leadership have inspired a respect for nature and the environment. We are honored to recognize her for her devoted service.
Congratulations on being recognized as SESLOC’s Community Cares Award recipient!
The workers are sooo nice and friendly!!"
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