City of La Palma

From snow days in Illinois to beach days, Mike Belknap experienced major changes when his family and he, at age 10, moved to California, but he loved the beach and being outdoors all the time. He quickly settled into a Southern California lifestyle and later a career that was at least partly shaped by the weather—community services/recreation. He went on to graduate from Savanna High School in Anaheim and then Cal-State Fullerton with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration.

His first job, while in college, was as a day camp counselor for the City of Anaheim, and he says, “I loved it.” It ultimately led him to the Recreation Department in La Palma for a part-time but year-round job as a recreation leader, which turned into a 37-year career. “Looking back and upon reflection, it’s incomprehensible that a college part-time job led to a career that means so much to me and one I’m very proud of.”

But an experience during his younger days may have had an influence on his career path. He participated in the Fullerton Boys & Girls Club. “From a young age, I saw that having access to recreational opportunities was important for so many of the members and having mentors to guide us through adolescence. Some of my best memories are from that time, and I think that’s what pushed me, although not consciously, toward my career path.”

He moved through the ranks of the Recreation Department and in 2011 became the Recreation and Community Services Director. In 2013 his responsibilities were increased, and he became the Community Services Director overseeing the recreation, maintenance and public works divisions.

During his long tenure in La Palma, Mike is credited with starting a number of recreation programs, including Club La Palma Day Camp, Fit N Fun Afterschool Program, and Pee Wee Sports. All city events come under his domain, with one of the most recent being the Festival of Nations and Hometown Parade. Mike actually loves events, especially those that honor other individuals, so at first he felt a little awkward being the Americana Citizen of the Year. “I’m used to putting on events to honor others, not the other way around!”

Mike is described as a leader and well-respected member of the community, providing support and oversight to numerous volunteer committees. His open-door policy gives everyone accessibility, making him a logical person to serve as a mentor to many past and present staff members. Over the years he has generously given advice and support to colleagues and community members, especially young people—perhaps remembering the importance in his life of mentors in the Fullerton Boys & Girls Club.

While working extensively with volunteers as part of his job, he has also volunteered himself. In his professional capacity he served as president of the California Parks and Recreation Society, District 10. He was also a La Palma/Buena Park American Cancer Society volunteer and subcommittee chair, and helped with the La Palma Relay for Life.

He has also received several awards: a Special Recognition Award and Coveted Leadership Award from the California Parks and Recreation Society, District 10, and from the City of La Palma, Employee of the Year and Recreation Employee of the Year (twice).

When not working, Mike enjoys cooking and baking, believing that entertaining and providing food to others is “my way to show people that I care about them.” While he says this in reference to his personal relationships, by extension the events that he has put on for the citizens of La Palma are simply another aspect of this belief. Clearly he cares about them, too.

“I’m very proud of the lives I’ve impacted through the years. Seeing smiling faces and families together participating in programs and events that I’ve created or enhanced gives me a sense of accomplishment.”

Mike is retiring just a week after Americana. He and his husband are moving to Palm Springs, where he plans to relax for a few months before looking for organizations and activities to which he can contribute.

But he “will always consider La Palma home and the city will always have a special place in my heart.” Clearly there are many people in the city who feel the same way about Mike.