Pay It Forward: Culver volunteer honored for bringing community space to life
Claire Elmer
CULVER, Ore. (KTVZ) — Culver’s sense of community got a major boost thanks to one local’s dedication. This month, our Pay It Forward segment spotlights resident Cindy Dix, who was recognized for her relentless efforts and work in making a new recreational space in Culver a reality.
With the support of Mid Oregon Credit Union and Dutch Bros Coffee of Central Oregon, Cindy Dix received this month’s Pay It Forward award — a $500 gift as thanks for years of fundraising and commitment to her community.
Cindy was presented with the award as a surprise during the grand opening of Culver’s newest skate park and pickleball courts — a project she was instrumental in making a reality. After years of selling scooters and making caramel corn to raise funds for the project, this award is simply the cherry on top.
“What makes me the happiest is seeing all these kids behind me on their skateboards and down at the other end on their bikes,” Cindy shared after the unexpected announcement, adding, “It means a lot that people know I just gave my all for this project and kept working. There were a ton of people that helped out, but it means a lot to be appreciated”.
School officials and students joined in the celebration, presenting Cindy with a book signed by elementary students expressing their gratitude for the new outdoor play spaces.
Culver Schools superintendent Stefanie Garber praised Cindy as “the example for all of us of what it means to pay it forward,” while Kyle Frick of Mid Oregon Credit Union presented the award, saying, “Thank you for all you do”.
Thanks to Cindy’s dedication and the wider community’s support, the new skate park and pickleball courts now offer fresh opportunities for kids to play and families to gather, boosting safety and active recreation in Culver.
KTVZ and its partners encourage nominations for future Pay It Forward — if you know someone making a positive difference in Central Oregon, you can visit the page here for more details.