By Kolton Sneed
For many people in Dana Point, community service is something they appreciate. For Mike Darnold, it has been a lifelong commitment. Recently named Dana Point’s Citizen of the Year, Darnold has spent years contributing to the community and supporting local initiatives that help make the city what it is today. The award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond to strengthen the community, Darnold say his dedication has never been about recognition. Instead, it has been about giving back and staying involved with the people around him. At Dana Hills high school, Darnold is a key figure in the SOS club, a student organization that encourages a drug and alcohol free lifestyle. SOS (Save our Students) began in 2011 when students wanted a different option from party culture. Today, it provides a supportive space where teens can connect and enjoy high school while staying substance-free. Darnold states that “Our goal was to change the culture on campus... we had a lot of kids die from fentanyl but now nothing.” Darnold also stated that it “gave them a feeling they belong to a community.” Darnold’s family has recently found itself in the national spotlight as well. His grandson, Sam Darnold, achieved one of football’s greatest accomplishments by winning the Super Bowl this year. For Mike, watching his grandson reach the pinnacle of professional football has been a special moment not just because of the victory, but because of the journey it took to get there. Those close to the family say Mike has always been supportive throughout Sam’s career, following his progress from youth to the professional stage. Even with the excitement surrounding the Super Bowl, Mike’s focus remains grounded in the community he has supported for so long. Being named Citizen of the Year highlights a lifetime of involvement, service, and dedication. While the Super Bowl may bring national attention to the Darnold name, in Dana Point, Mike Darnold is recognized for something equally meaningful: his commitment to the people and the place he has helped shape.