For six years strong, the 5th District Good Neighbor Festival has been focused on not just gathering residents of the district together for activities, but honoring those who impacted the area in inspirational and beneficial ways.

At this year’s festival, local realtor Sarah Ireland was honored with a Good Neighbor award mainly for her role as a two-term vice president of the El Dorado Park Estates Association and her volunteer work for the Newcomb Academy Foundation.

“I am honored to receive this award on behalf of other good neighbors in Long Beach,” Ireland said in a press release. “I love the City of Long Beach and look forward to continuing my work of helping families realize their dream of home ownership and building a stronger community for all of us.”

Through her work in the association, she has helped not only beautify the surrounding neighborhoods with sidewalk improvements and greenery, she fosters safety by encouraging communication throughout the community via events such as the Progressive Dinner and the Community Spirit Awards.

“The Good Neighbor Festival gives us an opportunity to thank the people who give of themselves to make our community great. In recognizing the individuals and organizations who give so much to our community, we are honoring the bonds that bring us together and what is best about our neighborhoods,” stated 5th District Councilmember Gerrie Schipske in a release. “It is important to thank those who give back to their community.”