Kiwanis, Division 15 Welcomes You!

     The first time I ever heard of Kiwanis was in my senior year at La Puente High School when I received $150 from the La Puente Kiwanis Club. I thought, what wonderful people believing in me without ever knowing me. I suppose a kind teacher or administrator submitted my information to them. It was not until 2001 when I would hear of Kiwanis again. (My goodness, we certainly are a well kept secret!). By 2002 I became a proud member of the Kiwanis Club of Ontario. What a great group of people working toward the greater good. I did however step out of the room and somehow ended up running the place. (My advice: hold it until after the meeting)

      From a very young age I was involved in school governance and community service. Kiwanis just seemed like the next natural step in being able to make a real difference in the lives of young people. There is no mistake in acknowledging that the network of Kiwanians gives our organization the tools and access to truly offer positive opportunities to the children in our areas. We are hands on and can see and feel the emotions that go along with helping a child. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of Kiwanis?

      In addition to community service, Kiwanis has given me an extended family that supports me at every turn. My Kiwanis family loves and encourages my children (one son, 20 and one daughter, 16) to not fear challenges and to always excel. It’s like having 30 sets of parents/grand parents rooting you on. I am forever grateful for this blessing. Granted, as in any family unit, things may not always run smoothly, but the goal of making an effective change remains steadfast.

      Below is a list of my Kiwanis “highlights” on paper, but know that the service we do is the true reward.

In addition to Kiwanis, I served on the local Little League board in Ontario from 2002 through 2007 in the capacities of Secretary (1 year), President (4 years), and Player Agent (1 year). I also work closely with the Chaffey High School Renaissance Program promoting success in academics. I am a graduate of La Puente High School and have a B.A. in Liberal Studies/Education, from San Diego State University. My work experience includes several years as a legal assistant/office administrator and Vice President of a small business consulting firm.