Our Vision
We envision an Antelope Valley where neighborhoods are clean, safe, and respected; where illegal dumping is actively deterred, swiftly addressed, and no longer normalized; and where residents, landowners, and public institutions share responsibility for environmental stewardship.
This vision avoids policy language but supports it implicitly. It keeps the moral and civic frame without sounding ideological.
A Message From Our Founder
Six years ago, I made the Antelope Valley my home after marrying my wife and joining the community she grew up in. As a father of three daughters, I’m deeply committed to nurturing both my family and the incredible potential of this region. Before settling here, my early career on the East Coast was spent serving United States Senators and Congressmen, where I learned the profound impact of public service and community leadership.
At the heart of my journey is a belief that the Antelope Valley is a vibrant, beautiful place filled with untapped promise. Through Community Partners of Antelope Valley, I’m blending my entrepreneurial spirit with a lifelong commitment to education and continuous learning. I believe that learning never ends and that by fostering education, a strong sense of community, and pride in our shared environment, we can truly transform our backyard.
Together, let’s stand united and make the Antelope Valley a beacon of what’s possible when we come together.
Lake Smith
At COPA AV, we believe the Antelope Valley’s future is built by the people who live here now
Community Partners of Antelope Valley (COPA AV) is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing illegal dumping and environmental neglect across the Antelope Valley.
Illegal dumping degrades neighborhoods, threatens public health, burdens local governments, and signals disinvestment. COPA AV was formed to respond directly to this challenge with a practical, community-driven approach.
We organize hands-on waste abatement efforts including weekend bulk cleanups, litter removal, and hotspot remediation. At the same time, we work to identify patterns of illegal dumping and advocate for stronger enforcement, better policy, and increased funding for organizations doing this work on the ground.
Our approach is rooted in the belief that clean environments are not a luxury. They are foundational to public safety, dignity, and economic vitality. By combining direct action with education and advocacy, COPA AV aims to reduce illegal dumping today while helping build the systems needed to prevent it tomorrow.
Our 2026 Impact Goals
Building a Stronger Antelope Valley, Together
In 2026, Community Partner of Antelope Valley is on a mission to create real, measurable change for our neighbors, our environment, and our future leaders in the Antelope Valley. With your support, we will:
1. Reduce illegal dumping through sustained, community-led action
Organize recurring Weekend Bulk Cleanup events in high-need areas
Conduct litter removal, bulky item abatement, and site restoration
Support residents with access to proper disposal resources
Every donation—whether it’s $5, $25, or whatever you’re able to give—helps us get closer to these goals. Your support keeps classes running, mentors in the room, and cleanup crews in the field.
Join us in uplifting AV residents, protecting our environment, and investing in the next generation of leaders.
Chip in what you can today and be part of the change happening right here at home.
2. Identify and disrupt dumping patterns
Map illegal dumping hotspots across the Antelope Valley
Share data and findings with local agencies and community partners
Advocate for targeted enforcement and preventative infrastructure
3. Increase public awareness and community accountability
Educate residents on the environmental, health, and economic impacts of illegal dumping
Promote legal disposal options and reporting mechanisms
Normalize stewardship as a shared civic responsibility
4. Advocate for stronger enforcement and policy reform
Support stricter enforcement of existing illegal dumping laws
Advocate for increased penalties for repeat and large-scale dumping offenses
Promote greater accountability for absentee landowners where dumping occurs
5. Expand funding and resources for local cleanup organizations
Advocate for increased state and regional funding for waste abatement programs
Support community-based organizations with education, tools, and operational resources
Elevate illegal dumping as a public safety, environmental justice, and quality-of-life issue
Our Why
Provide a general summary of the services you provide, highlighting key features and benefits for potential clients.
Education
We believe that learning is a lifelong mission, and one that leads to the liberation of the mind and community.
Love
We believe the sole objective of life to is share and spread love to all, regardless of creed, color, or community.
We believe that experiencing unique situations broadens horizons and creates new possibilities for all.