Shari Latta and Poison Free Malibu to Receive the 2024 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award

The Malibu City Council has selected Lifeguard and educator Shari Latta and environmental nonprofit Poison Free Malibu as the recipients of the 2024 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award in recognition of their contributions to recreation in Malibu.

Mayor Doug Stewart stated, "It is an honor to recognize Shari Latta and Poison Free Malibu with the 2024 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award. Shari's dedication to teaching and mentoring young Lifeguards, alongside her impactful work with Malibu's youth, exemplifies the spirit of community service Malibu strives for. Similarly, Poison Free Malibu's commitment to environmental stewardship and their crucial role in shaping our Earth Friendly Management Policy reflects a deep commitment to protecting Malibu's natural resources. Both Shari and Poison Free Malibu have made extraordinary contributions that enrich our community and set a remarkable standard for civic engagement."

Since 2002, the Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award has been presented annually to recognize outstanding individuals who give their time and resources to enhance the quality of recreation programs within the Malibu community. Past recipients have displayed a commitment to addressing some aspects of recreation in Malibu, demonstrating the highest level of citizenship while making a lasting contribution to the community.

Shari Latta has spent over 35 years as a Junior Lifeguard Instructor and Lifeguard in Malibu. She teaches young Lifeguards about the ocean, including the diversity of ocean animals and the importance of protecting the marine environment. As a female Lifeguard, she mentors young women interested in continuing their careers in the aquatics field. She has also worked with schools, serving Malibu families for over 45 years, and will serve as the Director of Our Lady of Malibu Preschool in 2024-25. Shari has dedicated her life to serving and mentoring Malibu's youth and has expressed her deep gratitude as a potential recipient of this year's award.

Poison Free Malibu is a Malibu-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to educate the public about pesticide problems and offer viable alternatives. The organization, led by Joel and Kian Schulman, helped the City draft the Earth Friendly Management Policy, which was implemented in 2019. Mrs. Schulman serves on the City's Earth Friendly Management working group and finds ways to enhance public education, outreach, and environmental programs at City parks and properties. Due to the organization's diligence and hard work, poisons have been kept out of City parks for over six years.

The 2024 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award will be presented to the recipients at the September 9 City Council meeting.

For more information about the Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award, visit the webpage.

Poison Free Malibu founders Kian (left) and Joel Schulman

Shari Latta

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