Milbank, volunteer awards given,
Club 126 unveiled at B&GC Breakfast

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Clara Valley recognized champions of support at the annual Breakfast of Champions where volunteers and donors were honored for their efforts on behalf of the Positive Place for Kids.

And the capacity crowd also heard of a new fundraising program Club 126 to benefit the Santa Paula, Fillmore and Piru clubs along the Santa Clara River Valley highway.

Held September 22 at the Community Center, B&GCSCV Executive Director Jan Marholin introduced those whose volunteer efforts have helped the organization function but also thrive,

Mary Deines was honored as Volunteer of the Year: “First and foremost as of yesterday she’s a new grandmother,” and the club’s bookkeeper, but Marholin said Deines’ efforts go above and beyond her professional duties.

“Mary is the vision and carries out the mission of our annual auction...she comes in about a week after the event,” already planning for next year with “big boards with colors, theme and what the centerpieces will be for next year.”

Then she plans all year as well as preparing decorations and centerpieces creating a memorable evening of themed fundraising.

Also honored was Mario Ortega who Marholin said has helped Fillmore Branch Director Buddy Escoto “Year after year with the STEM program,” which concentrates on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math activities and studies.

“At Fillmore we have a minimum of 100 to 150 kids and to get STEM out and organized in a short period of time is amazing,” and a testament to Ortega’s dedication.

Honored with the Jeremiah Milbank Society Awards were Dorcas Thille, Richard and Patricia Fritch and Richard and Betty Hyde.

Mike Mobley presented the awards noting Milbank was a founder of the national club organization; the society was founded in 2004 to recognize donors that make unrestricted gifts of $10,000.