Story of Giving by Lynn Briggs

In response to your request for Stories of Giving, I just wanted to let you know that our office, Coldwell Banker Tri-Counties Realty has enjoyed being involved in a couple of very special charitable efforts over the past ten years or so. 1. We are given the names of 20-25 children, of varying ages, from the McKinley's Children's Center, San Dimas, CA. The Agents choose a child and buy gifts for them. We have been doing this every Christmas for over 10 years. 2. We have a 50/50 drawing at each of our office meeting throughout the year and the proceeds are donated to Inland Valley Hope Partners, Pomona, CA. They in turn provide services to throughout the area, such as temporary housing, food and necessities for needy people. We have been donating to the Inland Valley Hope Partners for at least the last 10 years. I am sending you this letter to let you know what we are quietly doing, not to bring attention to our office, as that is not why we give, but because either of the charities that we support would be so excited to receive the $500 that you are offers and put it to good use to benefit the most people. If you should have any further questions, please do not hesitate to give me a call. Thank you for what you do to support the charitable causes in our area. Lynn Briggs Sales Manager Coldwell Banker Tri-Counties Realty

Story of Giving by Rick Sanders

HLC Stories of Giving: First of all, I want to thank HLC Broadview Mortgage for the generous gift to charities I have supported in the past. This year I would like to share a story about my late friend and Broker, Kirk B. Johnson, who passed away in August of 2016. Kirk was a Real Estate Broker, Appraiser, and an Attorney in La Verne for over 25 years. Kirk was born and raised in La Verne and was a graduate of Bonita schools, Cal Poly Pomona and the University of La Verne School of Law. Kirk believed in community service and routinely helped with community needs. Never wanting recognition or attention for his kindness. In February 2016 just six months before he passed, Kirk started a scholarship fund for two graduating students at Bonita High School. His goal was to keep this scholarship going for years to come. Kirk was able to see the first two students receive their awards in 2016. Friends, family, and others in the community have continued to contribute to the Kirk B. Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations can be made in his memory to Bonita High School ASB Kirk B. Johnson Scholarship. I hope others in the Real Estate business will join me and insure Kirk’s dream of helping graduating students at Bonita High. Sincerely, Rick Sanders, Broker BRE # 01886909

Story of Giving by Tiffany Merrill

Dear HLC Team, We are writing this letter to enter the Annual Stories of Giving that your team has so generously created. Let me tell you about our work in support of education and the overall well-being of our students. We currently work as the Foster/Homeless Youth Liaisons in the Bonita Unified School District in San Dimas/La Verne. In our role, we are in contact with approximately 500 foster youth each school year, as well as several homeless families that are of course in need of emergency support. As a school district, and at each school site, we are limited financially as to what we can do to help these individuals and families, no matter how deep our desire. Throughout the year we reach out to the families for ongoing support; therefore, when there is a crisis these students and families reach out to us. Our team works hard to support as many needs as we can; however, financial constraints and limited budgets hinder providing the assistance and resources they need. Some of the needs that have arisen in this school year alone include: emergency motel payment to keep one more night of shelter, bus passes for multiple homeless family children to get to school, grocery store gift cards for that night’s meal, a refrigerator so a family with six children could keep perishables, clothes and shoes for children, science camp gear/clothes for children, birthday treats (Starbucks drink or a cupcake) for our foster youth who reside in group homes and homeless students, school letterman jacket for a worthy athlete, school spirit wear so students feel a part of the community, and additional costs that arise for our students that schools cannot absorb or sponsor. Although our role lies on the educational side for our students, we cannot help but recognize additional critical needs by looking at the whole child. As such, we are sometimes the people in the best position to know the specific needs and are willing to make the effort to meet them. Thank you for your consideration! Sincerely, Tiffany Merrill, Foster Youth Liaison, Bonita Unified School District Mo Williams, Foster Youth Liaison, Bonita Unified School District

Stories of Giving from Bernadette Loera

I want to tell you about how I am inspired by Community Senior Services’ Enrichment Center Adult Day Program located in the Larkin Park Building in Claremont, California. The adult day program is open daily from 10:00am until 4:00pm. Participants are older adults living with memory impairment in various stages. I was inspired to write this “letter of giving” after reading a testimonial of gratitude written by family members of a participant in the program that attended for for nearly three years and had recently passed away. The letter was touching and a true testament of how a community can come together to engage and value members living with dementia. With the decline in memory and ability to perform daily activities, dementia is crippling for both seniors and the family having to care for them. The difference the Enrichment Center makes on a daily basis to the participants and their families is substantial. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be exhausting and lonely. Through the Enrichment Centers’ engaging activities and caring staff and volunteers, family members and caregivers are offered a rare moment of relief from the stress of caring for a loved one. Participants at the Enrichment Center are treated with dignity and respect and as important members of society. They are valued and cared for in a manner that brings both mental and physical engagement. I have been able to witness firsthand the importance the program brings to its participants and the value the program brings to the community. The staff and the many committed volunteers work tirelessly to implement a program that reflects the many needs of those living with dementia, a complex and often misunderstood group of conditions that can devastate families. The Enrichment Center strives to offer much needed support, comfort and peace of mind to the participants and their families. The program is based on “The Best Friends “approach which focuses on relationships, empathy, support, trust, humor and respect. The recent letter from the family I mentioned above is touching, in that, it brought me to tears to read the heartfelt thanks of the family members expressing deep gratitude for the care their mother received while attending the Enrichment Center. Please consider the Enrichment Center Adult Day Program and the efforts of Community Services, their employees and all of the volunteers for the difference they make in this world. I’ll close with a quote from the heartfelt letter mentioned above, “Your program doesn’t just provide a service. It changes lives.” Respectfully submitted by Bernadette Loera, MSG candidate, University of La Verne

Story of Giving from Stephanie Roberts on Behalf of Assistance League of Pomona Valley

Operation School Bell®, Assistance League® of Pomona Valley October delivery day finally arrived. Preparation had been underway for weeks to order and receive clothing, then fold and put on shelves or hang up on racks. It was Operation School Bell Delivery Day. Assistance League of Pomona Valley initiated their program in 1999 and joined many other chapters of this special charitable organization called National Assistance League. The volunteers work hard in this organization and see what it has done for the local communities. Pomona Valley chapter provides at least five of these shopping days each school year and help individual families as the need arises, helping about 1,200 children each year. This particular day was a very wet one, not unlike what we have been experiencing as of late. The usual clients came in. Some with just mom or dad, some brought their kids. Shopping was a new experience for most of these children. They delighted in picking out their tops. Each child had their own opinion as to what was just right for them. Some girls would want 5 pink tops and moms would be doing some ‘back seat shopping’ and advising them as to what they needed. By the time they finished with their new socks and underwear their smiles were ear to ear. The boys liked to look for their 5 t-shirts with sports insignias or Spiderman or Laker colors or just their favorite color. It was all there for them to select the perfect item for maybe the first time in their young lives. The families would leave not only content but feeling that someone cared for them. Their children could now go to school and fit in. They could raise their hands in answer to questions and not have rips and tears under their arms. They could take their shoes off and not have holes in their socks. They could wear their new underwear that many had never owned before. They could feel comfortable in their own skin. They could receive compliments on their cute sweatshirts or patterned leggings. They could fit in with their new jeans. And the members and volunteers felt like they had helped in some small way to make the world a better place. But this was an October of a few years ago, and there was more to come that day. The volunteers were tired. It was almost 4 o’clock and time to close the doors. A woman appeared at the open door with her 2 sons. She was panicked she was not going to be able to get clothing for her sons. She was encouraged to come on in and go shopping. The family was checked in and the 2 boys had their own personal shoppers. The members were delighted to help these two young people that were out of breath from running. The mom waited at the counter just watching them shop. This particular delivery day there were some shoes in stock. But they would not take off their shoes. One volunteer finally convinced them, finding a hole where the sole of the shoe should be. The socks were soaked. New socks were immediately given to the boys. They did not want to wear them. They did not want to ruin their new socks. An extra pack was given to each and explained that they would also be taking home detergent so they could wash the ones that were soiled. In the meantime, at the check out counter, the mother asked if there was any place that could help out at Christmas time. Their lives had been so disrupted having escaped from an abusive relationship and she wanted some continuity in their lives. Fortunately, “Act of Giving” is a special delivery for Operation School Bell in December. She was told they would be included that day. The member at the desk realized that water was running off the counter. The mother was wearing a mohair sweater that was dripping wet. This old sweater had seen better days. Mom was very slender and was finally convinced to pick some clothing from the gently used clothes that hung close by. She was elegant in her new sweatshirt and jacket and so thankful for what they had been given that day. With umbrellas and all their new garments, they departed. The boys with smiles, the mom with tears in her eyes. December came, and as promised, her family was included in this delivery too. Two handsome boys, wearing clothes they had picked in October came down the stairs. But what the volunteers saw was this beautiful woman, in clothes that had been given to her. She was different. Her head was held high, her smile was bright. She shared that she had found a job. But what was most important to her was to relate that that October day, she was unraveled. She did not know if she could make it. But the volunteers had made her feel cared for and that she was valued. Something everyone can understand. Submitted by Stephanie Roberts

Story of Giving from Patrick and Christina Hartrick

We would like to share with you a close friend of ours who lives in Upland, CA. Molly Ondich is an exceptional 13 year old in many ways. Due to some serious medical problems, she has been home schooled since second grade. As life goes on, more medical concerns have arisen. The most serious diagnosis is EDS (Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, which attacks the connective tissue, causing most of her organs to be compromised). She has also been diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which affects the heart. There are other medical problems, which stem from these two major syndromes. She is learning to pace herself, and there are days that she cannot get out of bed. Being a “typical” 13 year old, she is quite adept on social media. Several months ago, she asked her parents if she could start a charity to help children and teens who suffer from Pots. So Molly started MOLLY’S MAIL, a charity that sends packages of encouragement to those in need. The word spread so fast, that she now serves children and adults, who suffer from physical or mental life- altering or terminal diagnoses. Many of those she has assisted are young cancer victims. On more than one occasion, she has attended funerals of children who succumbed to their disease. The parents of these kids have personally invited her, as they are so grateful for the joy she has brought to their stricken children. (There are many testimonies on her Molly’s Mail Facebook and Instagram accounts.) Her “care” packages are full of words of encouragement, as well as aids that keep these people positive. To date, she has sent out over 140 packages all over the world. It is a costly endeavor, and her family has assisted by raising money via garage sales and Go Fund Me. But the funds go quickly, as she is never short on requests! Not only because awarding her a gift would be helpful to those she encourages, but it would also be such a morale booster for Molly! She has the most contagious smile and an unbelievable positive attitude about her work. She is a wonderful, bright, caring young lady, with a heart of gold and a real understanding of those who suffer. If you would like to see some of the amazing work Molly has done, I've included a screen shot of her Instagram account. Feel free to look her up and follow her! Sincerely, Patrick and Christina Hartrick

Stories of Giving from Joseph Iwobi

When a new chapter in our lives approaches, we usually make an opportunity to reflect on our past and how it brought us to the present. With this in consideration, I would like to take this moment to recognize an association that has done much for people like me. I speak of an organization whose sole purpose is to provide advice and services to those diagnosed with diabetes, and by this I mean the American Diabetes Association. In the early 1990's, I needed a physical for my place of work. During this medical procedure, my doctor brought to my knowledge that I had diabetes. Even though diabetes has been in my family’s history, hearing about it came as a bit of shock to me. From then on, I had to change my lifestyle especially my way of eating. The routine would be anything to keep my blood sugar in check to prevent any other bodily complications like kidney failure, eye defects, and leg amputation. Since the establishment of the American Diabetes Association in the early 1940’s, it has supported and taught those with diabetes on how to work hard to control the aforementioned problems caused by this metabolic disease. Its diligent efforts in diabetic research inspired me to subscribe to their membership program in 2013. For example, one of the most important aspect to my diabetic routine, dieting, is emphasized on each monthly subscription. There is a featured recipe that is catered towards healthy eating. In conclusion, talking from the viewpoint of someone with diabetes, I can without any hesitation, say that the American Diabetes Association has helped me, my friends, and my relatives immensely in enlightening and controlling the bad effects of this dangerous disease. Joseph Iwobi

Stories of Giving from Nancy Dufford on Behalf of Madelene

When 10-year-old Madelene shuffled into Uncommon Good’s office, her hair flopped in front of her eyes so no one could see her face. Her voice was barely above a whisper. That was 12 years ago, and it’s a far cry from the confident Fulbright Scholar who is spending a year in Spain teaching low-income immigrant students from Africa. That change in Madelene is just an example of why I admire the work of Uncommon Good. Madelene grew up in Pomona, the eldest daughter of two parents who had no formal education beyond elementary school. Her parents spoke little English and had no idea how to help their daughter overcome her insecurities and awkwardness or how to find a more prosperous path in life. Madelene’s fourth grade teacher suggested that she enroll in Uncommon Good’s Connect to College Mentoring Program. There, Madelene was matched with Emily, a Scripps College student who became her mentor. In addition to having a role model who exposed her to college life, Madelene took advantage of the enrichment opportunities that Uncommon Good offers to its students when she enrolled in a summer theatre program. Between her mentor and her stage debut, Madelene started to develop confidence and find her voice. She continued to participate in Uncommon Good’s programs and eventually enrolled in their High School Scholar’s Program. There she received the encouragement, knowledge, and skills she needed to get to college. Uncommon Good helped her to enroll in the International Polytechnic High School, and gain admittance to the selective Pomona College Academy for Youth Success summer program. Uncommon Good gave her SAT test preparation, helped with her college applications, college application personal statements, and financial aid documents. She rose to the role of President of Uncommon Good’s Teen Green environmental program. Because of the support Madelene received from Uncommon Good’s Connect to College Program and her own dedication, she was accepted to the prestigious Bates College in Maine with a full scholarship. While there she also did research and studied at Columbia University. The education and opportunities she enjoyed at Bates typically prove elusive for most young, low-income Latinas. Madelene, however, graduated from Bates in May 2016 and was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to do international research and teaching in Spain. She recently rewarded her family for helping her to defy the odds…she flew them to Spain during the holiday break. I am confident that Madelene will go on to do great things for society, as will the other hundreds of students who are achieving success because of Uncommon Good. Submitted by Nancy Dufford

Stories of Giving from Anonymous

Freedom had crept up and surprised me one morning at 5:30 a.m. The intercom blared: "INMATE WA4561 REPORT TO THE NEAREST OFFICER". It was finally August 21, 2011. I had waited for this day for what felt like a lifetime... I always knew it would come, just not as suddenly as it did. I tiptoed around my cell, careful not to wake my 7 (still) sleeping cellmates as the locks clicked and I was let out. Walking down the hallway to the officer who had just let me out, I was struck with the sad knowledge that if this "Crossroads" place didn't take me, I would've been out on the street. You see, I didn't have any family that could've or would've taken me in. I didn't have any money, unless you counted the $200 they give to you as you're walking out of the prison gates. Which, if you weren't as lucky as I was, you had to use part of that $200 pittance on a Greyhound ticket home. Where ever "home" even was... And that's it. $200 is next to nothing when you factor in food, shelter, clothing, etc. What would I have done? I knew what I would've had to have done. I would've had to sell my body to avoid being penniless and homeless... Not an ideal thought to have, just minutes after being freed from prison after a few years. I knew that I was lucky to have been accepted into the coveted Crossroads program. I knew that I was lucky that someone was going to make the drive to Chowchilla and take me there. Months before, I had been told that I was eligible for the drug program in prison. If successfully completed I would be placed in a halfway house and get out of prison 3 months earlier than my release date. After completing the program with 0 hiccups, I was told that there was a local halfway house I might be interested in. At first I was taken aback. "What?! There's no half way houses in Claremont sir.... It's Claremont. I grew up there, there's no way something like that exists. I would've heard about it." Yet, my drug counselor at CCWF was correct. There was, indeed, a halfway house in Claremont. What he failed to mention, was that it was usually meant for (older) ex-lifers. I was only 20, and a short timer. I got lucky again. Sister Terry was out of town when the newbies were being evaluated, so her director, Jackie White had accepted me on Crossroads behalf. When I got to Crossroads, I couldn't believe where it was. I've literally walked past it hundreds of times growing up, eating at Wolfe's, or just being in the village in general and never knew. I was greeted immediately by friendly staff and handed an immense care basket. In this care basket was everything one would need or want after just being released from prison. Toothbrush, toothpaste, brush, shampoo, conditioner, soap, loofah, washcloth, towel, bathrobe, hair ties, etc. but then there was something else. A warm, hand written card from a Crossroads volunteer, wishing me well and congratulating me on my freedom. Inside the card was a packet of flowers for me to grow. I was touched. After a few weeks of being in the house, learning the rules and completing tasks like obtaining a CA ID and birth certificate, we were allowed to job hunt. During this time, Crossroads had a relationship with the Browns, a local family that owned a few McDonald's restaurants nearby. They had a special relationship with Crossroads and offered the women there immediate employment after an in-home session of job training and food handling certification. I had declined, citing that I was better than fast food and better than McDonalds. I didn't want to participate in the job training, so Jackie had taken me in the car with her and we drove into the village. It was in that car that we had somewhat of a fight. She had asked me why I didn't want to participate in the McDonalds hiring process and I reiterated that I was better than fast food, therefore I would find my own job. Skeptical, she pulled over and told me good luck, and not to come back until I had a job. Jokingly, I think she thought that I wouldn't, therefore would be forced to come back with my tail between my legs and ask for the damn McDonald's application.... I didn't. After 12 no's all around the village, from Jamba Juice to Verizon Wireless, I had finally found a job. Ironically, it was right as I was about to walk back up Harvard and admit defeat, when I saw in gold plating, "The Zetterberg Building". Chuckling, I remembered how Mrs. Zetterberg was my favorite teacher at El Roble growing up, so I assumed I had this in the bag. It MUST be her husband, I'll just casually mention I was her student and see where it takes me. WRONG. Turns out the building belonged to her late father-in-law and has/had absolutely nothing to do with her. I even found out that her husband didn't even practice in his fathers building, he was right across the street on Yale. Determined not to work in the fast food industry, I asked the receptionist if there were any attorneys in the building that were hiring. To my immense surprise she said yes, he's actually here right now, let me get him. I'm greeted by an amazon of a man, at 6'4 who informs me that he is an Attorney and he is looking for an assistant for his firm. Do I have time right now to interview? As it so happened, I did and was pleasantly surprised with how well it was going til the end when he asked if I had a criminal background. Chuckling, he said he assumed no, but that he had to ask. That's when I decided to open up and tell him the whole truth. You can imagine how surprised I was when he exclaimed that I was hired, just drop off a resume the next day and meet his wife. That was October 5, 2011. I'm still here to this day, and it's all thanks to fighting with Jackie, and Crossroads. Crossroads is amazing at what they do to help women from prison stay OUT of prison. I wouldn't be where I am today without them, and all of their generosity. Crossroads allowed me to save each and every paycheck so that when I completed their program, I had saved over $6,000.00. I was able to parole 4 years earlier than what was mandated. I was able to rent my own spot. I bought my first TV. I also made countless friends at the Claremont colleges through their partnership with Nancy Neiman Auerbach who teaches at Scripps doing 'Meatless Mondays'. My favorite memory will always be teaching the older women that just got done doing 10, 15, 20 years in prison how to use Facebook. How to not only use Facebook, but help them find their kids, grand kids, friends and family members they haven't seen for all that time. Thank you for reading, and I hope you select Crossroads as the winner of your Stories of Giving!

Stories of Giving from Brad Freeman

We have a client that runs a facility called The Blessing Center in Redlands, California. They tirelessly help some 6,000 to 7,000 families in the Inland Empire Region with the basic necessities of life. This organization is all volunteer and their efforts are certainly worth noting. The main person who is behind the vision of The Blessing Center is Dr. Craig Turley. Every time I have been to The Blessing Center to see him I find him with a Mop or a Broom in his hand. This is a great definition of humility along with tireless service from someone who gives most of their life to help others in need. The Blessing Center is a faith-based non-profit charitable aid organization. Their goal is to help alleviate poverty and despair through multi-faceted resourcing of poor and disadvantaged families and individuals who are hurting, in need of food, clothing, medical and dental care, job resources and many other needs. Sincerely, Brad Freeman

Stories of Giving from Megan Nehamen

Our community is filled with many worthy organizations that bring such value, each having a different vision. The mission of Foothill Family Shelter is to assure children and adults a future by helping them acquire skills that will enable them to maintain a home, job and at the same time develop the necessary self-esteem to function as a successful stable adult. Foothill Family Shelter has been serving homeless families since 1984. There is a critical need for these services and with sparse resources, community support is imperative. For over 32 years Foothill Family Shelter has shared their mission and vision in an effort to transition families from homelessness to stable, permanent housing. In addition to the community support, Foothill Family Shelter offers comprehensive services which empower clients to gain new skills, set attainable goals and develop a new and effective way of living. As a result of the work Foothill Family Shelter does each day, here is a story that shows the true impact this organization has on those in need. Samantha is a single mother with one teenage son. She was working a part time job with limited hours and was receiving food stamps. She was living with different relatives but mostly at her mother’s, who lives in a senior living community. Eventually she was given a final notice to leave mom’s house or her mother would also be asked to leave. She was drowning in debt with no relief in sight and her mental health was taking a toll due to unemployment, financial stress, low self-esteem, parenting issues, and worry that her vehicle would break down at any moment. Shortly after being accepted by Foothill Family Shelter, she was laid off and applied for cash aid and food stamps. Samantha graduated from the 120-day program and went on to the 1-year housing. She hit a few hurdles and became disengaged from the program. After progressive discipline the Shelter had to make a difficult decision; Samantha was asked to leave the program because she wasn’t meeting with her Case Manager or Therapist and she wasn’t saving any money. Samantha was encouraged to file an appeal where she then met with the Co-Executive Directors. Samantha’s request to stay was granted and she immediately refocused and got back on track. While in the program she obtained a good paying job , created a savings fund, learned to balance life stress in turn increasing emotional well-being, paid off old debts, bought a reliable vehicle and moved on to find permanent housing without any further subsidies or assistance. Samantha is pursuing a career in nursing and is preparing to take her Nursing Board Exam. Her hope is that once she’s settled in to her career she would like to get involved with Foothill Family Shelter by volunteering and donating. It is a privilege serving families who want to help themselves, but need a hand-up. Foothill Family Shelter is truly thankful to each volunteer, donor, business, service club, faith-based group and anyone who believes in the mission and strives to make a difference. As we begin the New Year, it is important to reflect back and realize that the work Foothill Family Shelter does is critical and our community makes it possible. Happy New Year! Sincerely, Megan Nehamen

Stories of Giving Shelby McNamara

Dear HLC Team, Thank you for the opportunity to share a nonprofit that has changed so many lives of children in the Inland Empire and Los Angeles. Camp Ronald Mc Donald for Good Times is a summer camp where children with cancer and their siblings can attend to spend a normal week just being a kid. “It gives the kids a chance to be compassionate and caring to others. It makes them ‘normal,’ and not alone. Nothing can compensate for the anguish that childhood cancer inflicts, but since 1982, Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times® has helped thousands of children and their family members recapture hope, enthusiasm, and love of life in a medically and psychologically safe environment created especially for them. Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times® offers a variety of residential camping opportunities for cancer patients, their siblings and parents all year long!” http://rmhcsc.org/camp/about The donations to camp allow the families to send their children for a week without having to pay for a single thing. Camp Ronald McDonald has such a dedicated set of volunteer counselors that every year, the sign up list gets filled within minutes. Many counselors spend personal time volunteering and raising money so kids can attend camp. I was so thankful to raise $750 myself this past year from family and friends and make a small dent of what camp needs. I have been a camp counselor for the past 3 summers and it has truly changed my life. The counselors and children that I get the privilege to spend the week with, always restore my faith in humanity. This video is just one session of the summer camp: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_To0a6AGww Thank you for allowing me to share my passion and wishing you all well in the new year. Sincerely, Shelby McNamara

Stories of Giving from Joseph Iwobi

I would like to take this moment to talk about my favorite organization the American Diabetic Association (ADA). This organization spreads awareness about diabetes all over the world and also helps advice current diabetes in many areas including diet and exercise. As a non-profit program, the ADA works hard every day to find a cure for diabetes. From the time I was diagnosed with diabetes in my mid-30s, this association has helped me personally in many ways possible. For starters, every month the ADA sends me in the mail subscriptions of their magazine, which inform me of the current events on the fight against diabetes and recipes catered for the needs for a diabetic. They also provided me and other people with diabetes a hotline service which we could contact if I had any questions or needed more information. If it had not be for the ADA I wonder how differently I would be able to cope with diabetes. I cannot express enough thanks to this organization for how much assistance it has given me. The nearest ADA center to me is in San Diego. 5060 Shoreham Place Suite 100 San Diego, California, 92122 Sincerely, Mr. Joseph O. Iwobi

Stories of Giving from Sandra Riley

Dear Members of the HLC Team: I am pleased to nominate San Bernardino Sexual Assault Services, Inc., a non-profit organization, for this year’s “Annual Stories of Giving” award. San Bernardino Sexual Assault Services has served victims (survivors) of sexual assault and domestic violence in San Bernardino County for 41 years. Its programs promote understanding and crisis intervention for victims and their families at no charge and without regard to socio-economic status, gender or ethnic origin. The majority of sexual assault and domestic violence victims are women and children. Children are at particular risk both directly, as intended targets of sexual assaults and violence, and indirectly, when their parents are the victims. Research shows there is a direct correlation between poverty and sexual violence. The city of San Bernardino is the poorest city of its size in California and the poorest in the United States after Detroit. One in three of its residents live below the federal poverty level and 11.2 percent of the population is unemployed. The community continues to suffer in the aftermath of the recession and, most recently, the devastating terrorist attack. Its citizen’s socioeconomic circumstances increased the demand for SBSAS crisis intervention services. Currently, SBSAS employs 15 staff members at multiple locations. In 2014, the agency presented 312 educational programs (including those for youth and teens) to approximately 4,800 individuals. Twenty-eight trained volunteers answered calls made to its crisis hotline. Staff performed the following services: accompanied and advocated for 878 victims when court proceedings were initiated; provided services to 1,177 to victims and their families (351 of which were children) when crisis invention was necessary; and, cooperated with law enforcement in numerous forensic investigations. It is expected these numbers will increase significantly when statistics are compiled for 2015. December 2nd, the horrific day in San Bernardino when terrorist struck, brought new challenges to the organization. So many lives were affected and the community was overwhelmed. SBSAS counselors were among the first responders. They were trained and ready to begin crisis intervention and helping those that needed it the most. Within 5 minutes of receiving notice the “Center” was in lock down SBSAS’ counselors were in their positions. The next 72 hours were filled responding to the needs of victims and their families. Staff traveled to hospitals providing counseling services to those in need; they attended candle light vigils; and, provided additional counseling sessions in the aftermath of the attack. Calls to SBSAS increased after the shootings from the community (at large) who needed empathetic support and someone to talk to about what happened on that terrible day. This assault was personal to community and its fallout will continue for months to come. SBSAS’ team will continue to provide wrap-around services to victims in its community. Thank you for considering San Bernardino Sexual Assault Services as a possible recipient of The HLC Team’s Annual Stories of Giving award. Sincerely, Sandra R. Riley

Stories of Giving from David Sawhill

My daughter began kindergarten at Chaparral Elementary school in 2014 and is currently in first grade. During this time I have learned to appreciate Claremont Unified School District employee Shiela Olson-Pompa. Sheila works as a Noon Duty Aide, an after school Daycare Aide, and works evenings at the high school as a Custodian. Her love for the children and dedication to the school has been obvious for the year and a half I’ve known her, but a new piece of information was recently revealed to me. In October 2015 I found out that Shiela was also coordinating the Chaparral garden on a volunteer basis. She was not getting paid and spending about 3 hours a week maintaining the garden, mostly on the weekends. This effort was to help the children in the after school daycare learn about nature and gardening. It is fun to see the children come to the garden and check on their plants every morning before school begins and after school during the day care enrichment activities. The garden has 10 raised vegetables beds and 11 fruit trees. It‘s just beginning to have the necessary tools, infrastructure, and parental support to allow Shiela to thrive in the garden, rather than get overwhelmed. As a parent volunteer I’ve begun to help Shiela with anything she needs in the garden, but Shiela’s story deserves to be told. From working with children in the mornings and afternoons, as well as cleaning the campus in the evenings, Shiela’s volunteer commitment to a school garden is a fine representation of community service. David Sawhill Chaparral Elementary School - Parent Volunteer

Stories of Giving from Diana Austin

My son, who has shown great courage, struggles with High Functioning Autism and ADHD. In elementary school he did well in his environment, although he did struggled with a great many things beyond learning, such as navigating social environments. When he moved into Middle School he began to fall into the cracks and lost academic and social gains. This is where our Story of Giving begins. I pulled my son out of his school and placed him in Independence Charter Academy in Helendale, Ca. He no longer had to focus on navigating intense social environments and had the help of the wonderful staff on a one on one basis, over and above what was expected to help him meet his academic goals. Their electives give my son the social opportunities that he needs, yet are more meaningful and decidedly more beneficial. He went from failing every class to making academic gains that astound me. He now loves to read, learn new things and takes more social and academic chances, therefore allowing him to experience more than ever before. The school administration and staff have been the catalysts for these social and academic gains, giving of their time and generous care. I believe in what they do with such a passion that I now volunteer as the Drama teacher and ASB advisor, investing my time and energy into a program that reaches far beyond the academic and reaches kids within the community who are at risk, giving them opportunities for success they may not have in any other program or school. Thank you for allowing me to share our Story of Giving, Diana Austin

Stories of Giving from Thierry Brusselle "How I Met Kevin Smith"

Last summer, my wife and I were buying books for our two boys at Barnes and Nobles. There, a young man approached me and asked me if I taught I Chaffey College. After answering yes, he told me that he had been looking forward to meeting me to discuss a major in Business. As we started talking, I noticed that he was holding several books for purchase. After asking him about them, he showed me that he was buying a book on improving one’s grammar, one about career choices, and a thesaurus. Then he shared his story with me. He was born in Compton, California to a drug-addicted single mother. After she lost custody of her son, his grand-mother legally adopted him. This turned out to be the highlight of his life. She instilled hard work, education, and responsibility in Kevin. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed with cancer. Young Kevin found himself going to school, working to support his grandmother, paying for her medication, and slowly watching her die. Kevin showed me a small photograph of his grandmother that he keeps in his wallet. Unfortunately, due to wear and tear, the picture was much damaged and yet, this was the most valued possession in Kevin’s life. Kevin was emotional when he showed me the picture and credited her as to the reason he turned out to be who he is today. Kevin was then released to the foster youth system. He navigated the system until he uncle was released from prison in Nevada. Kevin was sent to live with his uncle. This did not last very long and Kevin quickly learned to fend for himself. Today, Kevin is a student in the business program at Chaffey College where he is desperate to be successful. His definition of success is to do well and help others with his skills. In my twenty years of teaching in higher education (Chaffey College, Cal Poly Pomona and Cal State Fullerton), I have never met anyone like him. Kevin is a 21 year old African American student who has more wisdom, gumption and perseverance than anyone I’ve come across. My colleagues and I have all been so inspired by his story that we collectively do what we can to help him. We call him “the forty year old man” because of his maturity and because he is always planning for the future. Kevin now works part time at Chaffey College and take a one hour bus ride to a tiny room that he rents in the back of a business in Ontario. A colleague who was so touched by his story gave him her son’s bicycle before the winter break. My colleagues and I took a collection and, after borrowing his grandmother’s photo from him, had it professionally restored and enlarged. We gifted him the enlarged version in a beautiful frame as well as several small pictures for his wallet. It would mean so much for Kevin to be awarded the $500. It wouldn’t be just the amount, although that would help him greatly with textbooks for the upcoming spring semester. Being awarded the $500 from the HLC Team of Broadview Mortgage would be another boost in confidence for Kevin. He told me that he no longer feels “alone in the world.” I know that the HLC team would see what we see in Kevin if they met him. I hope the team does meet him to award him this generous gift. My wish would be for him to be awarded the $500 gift and being encouraged to come back to the Broadview Mortgage team for an internship after completing a set number of business classes. Respectfully, Thierry Brusselle

Stories of Giving from Rick Sanders (2)

Founded in 1982 by Visionary civic leader Bob Weinberg, The California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation provides emergency benefits to California Highway Patrol employees and their families in times of crisis. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed more than $27 million in assistance to current, retired and Fallen in the Line of Duty CHP employees and their families. The important work of the Foundation has been enabled through the generosity of tens of thousands of individual donors and volunteers and by institutional grant funding. To learn how you can assist and participate, click Learn About Membership or Make a Donation. “The CHP 11-99 Foundation’s impact has been far reaching beyond my dreams of a decade ago. I see the Foundation's creation and growth as one of my principal successes in life.” — Bob Weinberg (1925-1992) Founder, CHP 11-99 Foundation My first career of nearly 30 years was with the Ca. Hwy Patrol. During my career, 56 officers lost their life. I witnessed first hand the amazing help and benefits the 111-99 foundation provided to some of these officers families immediately. Furthermore, they help current members children with educational scholarships. Putting this together makes me a little emotional. I am blessed that I made it to retirement without serious injury or worse. I encourage you to share the story of the 11-99 Foundation. They do amazing work with the funds received. WWW.11-99.org Rick Sanders

Stories of Giving from Rick Sanders (1)

This foundation keeps the memories of 7 crew members who died serving our country, and continues to help military families. Lt. Jared Landaker was from Big Bear CA and a graduate of the University of La Verne. 7 STARS FOUNDATION The Seven Stars Foundation, Inc. was established on 2-7-2007, in honor of the 7 crew members on a US Marine Corps CH-46 Casevac helicopter that was shot down in Iraq, killing all on board. MISSION STATEMENT To make a positive impact on the children of both Wounded and Fallen military personnel through financial, emotional, and educational assistance. Every year the Seven Stars Foundation sends children of the Fallen, Wounded or Active military to Camp Whittle in Big Bear. The children get to spend a week enjoying outdoor activities and making new friends. We thank you for your support. We will never forget... Jared Michael-Vincent Landaker was born to Joe and Laura Landaker at their home in Madera, CA on May 3, 1981. His parents moved to Big Bear City, CA when his father transferred to Running Springs, CA with the California Highway Patrol. Jared attended school in Big Bear Valley where he excelled in soccer, baseball, and football. In his 1998 season, he was chosen as all CIF defensive back for the Big Bear High School Bears and was selected to play in Hawaii his senior year. Upon graduation from high school, Jared enrolled at the University of La Verne in California where he graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Physics. After the 9-11 attack, Jared felt a sense of duty and elected to OCS in the United States Marine Corps upon graduation. While attending college, Jared began to take Platoon Leaders Courses on his summer break between his Junior and Senior years of college. Following graduation in 2003, Jared accepted his Commission in the United States Marines as a 2nd Lt. and began his training in Quantico, Virginia at The Basic School. Upon completion of TBS, Jared transferred to Pensacola, Florida for flight school, where he excelled and graduated at the top of his class. Jared completed school by being named in the top 5% of all students and a position on the Commodore's list. During his time at flight school, Jared opted to fly helicopters instead of flying jets. He stated "he wanted to fly Marines in, but more importantly fly them out". Jared reported to Camp Pendleton, California to train in the CH-46 medium helicopter with Squadron HMMT-164. After completion of his training, he reported to HMM-364, the "World Famous Purple Foxes" where he also became their S2 (Officer Intelligence Officer). On August 18, 2006, Lt. Landaker deployed to the Al Anbar Province in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While there, Lt. Landaker would complete his HAC qualification early with a total of 496 hours to become a "Helicopter Aircraft Commander". Jared was selected to depart Iraq early to attend Weapons and Tactical School in Yuma, AZ for training as a WTI Instructor. With only a week left in Iraq, his crewmembers received a call that three Marines were wounded and needed a Cas-e-Vac flight. With his flight crew and Corpsmen on board, they picked up the wounded and delivered them to Balad Hospital. Upon the return flight to their base, they were requested to pick up some blood and transport it to the hospital in Fallujah. During this flight they received machine gun fire and rocket fire resulting in the downing of the helicopter and killing all on board. On February 7, 2007, Lt. Jared M. Landaker and his crew of six were KIA in Karmah, Iraq. On February 17, 2007, Jared was laid to rest at the Riverside Veterans Cemetery in Riverside, CA. His father, Joe, a Vietnam Marine stated ""He did more in 25 years than most of us will do in 75 years." “ He always wanted to fly,” said Luke Wagner, a friend since their days as freshmen at Big Bear High. “Flying and helping others were his passions, and that’s what he was doing in Iraq every day.” “What he was doing everyday was waiting for a buzzer to go off to go save a Marine’s life. He ended up dying doing that,” said longtime friend 1st Lt. Matt Jackson, 27, of Orange who flies helicopters for the Army Jared’s quote: Hero: “Anyone who has put their life on the line serving this country”. JROD Jared’s Dad, Joe Landaker is a retired CHP Officer. This foundation keeps the memory of the Seven Crew members who died serving our country alive. I encourage you to share their story. Submitted by Rick Sanders

Stories of Giving from Fred and Heather Lyn

I would like to tell you a story about Jasmine “Jazzy” Lyn and her involvement with an organization called the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). It was a summer weekend in 2010 full of family celebrations when Jazzy’s great Aunt (a seasoned family practice doctor) noticed that her lips were pale. It was suggested that she have a blood test just to check of anemia. Heather and Fred, Jazzy’s parents, took her to the pediatrician the following Monday. Blood tests were ordered and taken immediately. That evening the results came in: a hemoglobin count of 3. Jazzy was immediately rushed to the ER at San Antonio Hospital and then transferred to Loma Linda Children’s Hospital after further tests confirmed that her blood work was seriously awry. Several subsequent days and many tests later, the diagnosis was confirmed: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). In July of 2010, Jasmine “Jazzy” was only 3 ½ when she was diagnosed with ALL. The first 28 days of Jazzy’s diagnosis were the hardest. She lived in the hospital for the first two weeks, had to have a PICC line placed, then had port placement surgery. She had to learn to swallow pills, was poked constantly, and had several lumbar punctures. Jazzy couldn’t attend her preschool and there were many activities that her situation prohibited. Yet, through it all, she was a happy, outgoing, sweet kid who never cried or screamed and who always wanted to talk to the nurses about Disney princesses. In all, Jazzy underwent two years and two months of extensive chemotherapy, constant lumbar punctures, and blood tests. She took her last chemo pill in September 2012. Now 8, Jazzy is in 2nd grade and enjoys ballet, taiko drumming, piano, girl scouts, and swimming. For her 7th birthday party she asked her friends to bring a donation for LLS in lieu of toys and other gifts. The 15 girls who attended donated $400. Jazzy is a super sweet kid who loves reading and spending time with her Mom, Dad, and little brother Parker. Jazzy’s not sure what she wants to be when she grows up. Sometimes she says she wants to be a doctor, a veterinarian, a swimmer, a dancer, or a mermaid. Other times, she just says that she wants to be a kid forever. Our family attributes her strength partly to the fact that she was born three months early and weighed only 1 pound, 14 ounces at birth. She was born a fighter and continues to be, which is simply amazing. We also think that as a result of her experiences so early in life, she is confident, comfortable speaking her mind with adults, and is a problem solver. In 2014, Jazzy was named an Honored Hero for the LLS’ Light the Night fundraising event. LLS is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services. LLS helps blood cancer patients live better and have longer lives and funds treatments that are saving the lives of patients. LLS is making cures happen, with their mantra being: “Not Someday, But Today!” As an honored hero, Jazzy had many opportunities to speak in support of LLS and to be an ambassador for the organization. As a family, we once again dedicated ourselves to re-establishing “Team Jazzy” and starting an aggressive fundraising campaign. In June, after three months of letter writing, social media posting, and e-mailing every person and business that we could think of, our team was only 20 members large and we had raised only $1,000, which was contributed by Some Crust Bakery. We were feeling like we had placed our goal of fundraising $20,000 too high. In August, we were blessed with an opportunity to have a Eureka! Night in honor of Jazzy and LLS, where we raised almost $400. After this good publicity, we started to get a few extra donations from community members. We had another fundraising night at Casa de Salsa and when school started in the fall, Jazzy’s Brownie Troop joined “Team Jazzy”. The AVID students at El Roble Intermediate School (where Jazzy’s mom is a teacher) also sold LLS bracelets for $1 at lunch and raised $150. By the day of the event, our team included over 100 members with half being 10 years old or younger. A week after the walk, Condit Elementary School surprised us by asking if the school could do an ice bucket challenge in Jazzy’s honor. Each classroom competed to raise the most “bucks for buckets” for a week. At the end of the week the classroom that raised the most would do the ice bucket challenge in the middle of 100 mile club on a Friday. From this event, Jazzy’s school raised almost $1,100. Through this year’s fundraising efforts we have seen the Claremont and surrounding communities lift up our daughter and rejoice in the accomplishment of her two year off chemo anniversary by fundraising almost $18,000. Raising money for LLS is not only a way that we came together and give thanks for the life-saving technology and medical advances that continue to keep our daughter healthy, but it is also the number one way of fighting cancer. Because of organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, hundreds of thousands of people diagnosed with blood cancer like Jazzy are today living normal, productive lives. LLS is on the threshold of amazing breakthroughs and the money fundraised accelerates miraculous new treatments and healing therapies once thought impossible for these patients. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Fred and Heather Lyn