Volunteer skates his way to honors

One of Elgin’s most dedicated volunteers received special recognition for his more than 250 annual hours of community service and youth program involvement.

The Texas Recreation and Parks Society awarded Carlos Gandia with its Individual Outstanding Service Award, earlier this month, for his work with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

As a volunteer, Gandia advocates for park funding, programming and community involvement. He spends time with young Elginites, encouraging them to get involved with the park development process and is leading a team of engaged teens in the creation of the city’s first permanent skate park.

Gandia helps park staff run the Elgin Recreation Center’s weekly Skate Night, setting up obstacles, teaching children skating basics and fostering an encouraging environment for all ages. Skate Night has quickly become one of the center’s most popular events, according to department leaders.

Alongside five years of volunteer work, Gandia served on the Parks Advisory Board for two years and is a current member of Friends of Elgin Parks. He also works with Bastrop- based Lone Star Skate Shop to bring skating opportunities to the greater county area, collects food every week for the local food bank and is an active member of the Elgin Arts Association, supplying monthly hands-on graffiti sessions for the public.

All wheels are welcome at Skate Night, Tuesdays at 6 p.m., complete with a repair and customization station for skateboards, scooters, roller skates and bikes.