In every great community, there are leaders who work tirelessly behind the scenes, shaping the lives of those around them. Carl McCullough is one of those leaders. A dedicated mentor, visionary, and champion for recreation spaces, Carl has spent his career ensuring that young people in Oceanside and across San Diego County have access to safe, fun, and inspiring places to grow.

His impact can be felt in the laughter of kids at local parks, the friendships formed at SD Nights, and the families gathered for Movies in the Park. Through his unwavering commitment, Carl is leaving a legacy that will echo through generations.

A Homegrown Leader with a Mission

Carl’s journey began right in the heart of Oceanside, California, where he was born and raised. As a child, he participated in youth sports, after-school programs, and Friday night teen events at his local recreation center.

When he turned 14, he transitioned from a participant to a leader, taking his first job working at the same community center that shaped his childhood. That early experience ignited a passion that would define his career.

“I grew up in a time when there was a lot of gang violence in Oceanside,” Carl shares. “But the recreation center gave me a safe place, and the mentors there helped me make good choices. That’s what I want to give back.”

Determined to create more opportunities for young people, Carl pursued a degree in Recreation Administration at San Diego State University. After graduating, he returned to Oceanside to run youth sports leagues before joining San Diego County Parks and Recreation in 2011.

Since then, his influence has only grown, touching the lives of thousands of youth and families across the region.

Transforming Communities Through Recreation

Carl’s leadership has transformed San Diego County’s recreation programs, expanding opportunities for youth in ways never seen before.

One of his proudest achievements is SD Nights, a groundbreaking program that provides safe, engaging nighttime activities for young people. What started as a small pilot program in 25 locations has now expanded to 340 events per year, bringing kids together for sports, video games, laser tag, music, and more.

“We didn’t need much—just a space and a vision,” Carl says. “Now, we’re giving thousands of kids a safe place to belong.”

Beyond SD Nights, Carl also oversees Movies in the Park, a beloved program that provides over 100 free outdoor movie nights to communities throughout San Diego County. Families gather with picnic blankets under the stars, strengthening community bonds and creating lasting memories.

“Recreation isn’t just about playing sports or watching movies,” Carl emphasizes. “It’s about building connections, confidence, and a sense of belonging.”

The Power of Representation and Mentorship

Carl understands firsthand that mentorship can change a life.

“We’re more than just a building with basketball courts and soccer fields,” he says. “Kids come because of the people inside—mentors, coaches, and staff who genuinely care about them.”

His influence extends far beyond Oceanside. Many of the young people he mentored over the years have stayed in touch, inviting him to their weddings, birthdays, and life celebrations.

“They reach out to say, ‘Thank you for believing in me,’ and that means everything,” Carl says.

As a Black leader in recreation management, Carl is also paving the way for greater representation in leadership roles.

“There aren’t a lot of Black professionals in this field,” he notes, “but that’s who we’re serving. I want young people to see that they can rise to leadership, make an impact, and shape their communities.”

Overcoming Challenges, Building Strength

Carl’s journey has not been without its challenges. At just 13 years old, he was diagnosed with keratoconus, a condition that makes it difficult to see clearly.

“I played sports with only one good eye, and it was tough,” he recalls. “There were moments when I doubted myself, but I kept pushing.”

That perseverance paid off—he earned a full-ride athletic scholarship, built a career of service, and now owns two businesses with his wife in Oceanside: a personal training business and an outpatient addiction recovery center.

“If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I’d say, ‘Keep going. The hard work will pay off.’”

A Legacy of Leadership and Community Impact

Carl McCullough’s impact is woven into the fabric of Oceanside and the greater San Diego County. Through his work, he has not only provided opportunities for thousands of young people, but he has also built a pathway for future leaders.

“I’ve helped 15 of my former part-time employees transition to full-time county positions, and now they’re running their own programs,” he says. “That’s the legacy I want—to create opportunities for others to step into leadership.”

From Oceanside to San Diego, his name is synonymous with community, service, and opportunity. He is more than a recreation director—he is a mentor, a leader, and a changemaker.

Celebrating a True Community Hero

Few people can say they’ve changed the landscape of a city, but Carl McCullough has done just that. He has built programs that keep kids safe, help families connect, and inspire future leaders. His legacy will not just be measured in the number of events he has overseen but in the thousands of lives he has touched.

And as he continues to serve, his message remains the same:

“Keep pushing. Better days are coming.”