About 150 people attend annual event
Published in the February 3-16, 2016 issue of Morgan Hill Life
By Staff Report
Photo by Marty Cheek
Saul Gonzalez, adult role model of the year at the 2016 Morgan Hill Values Youth conference, is surround by young people he has helped.
The Morgan Hill Values Youth conference brought more than 150 parents and children to the Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center Jan. 23 to learn how youth, families and the community can connect.
Many individuals and organizations work to inspire youths throughout the year and help them feel valued. They were presented with special awards at this year’s conference, with Community Services Director Chris Ghione reading the announcements.
Youth Serving Organization of the Year: Morgan Hill Library
“The Morgan Hill Library is such a great place for our Morgan Hill families to visit. They offer many free services such as: Kids Yoga, Kids Music classes, Zumba for kids/Adults, Tutoring for kids/adults, Storytimes, computer access for all, and school outreach services. The Morgan Hill library has been such an asset to our local schools as they host literacy nights, sign up families for library cards, and give families an opportunity to spend some time checking out library book. We are so thankful for the Morgan Hill library and their wonderful staff.”
Business of the Year: Leal Vineyards at Willow Heights Mansion
“Willow Heights is not just a venue to hold weddings or events, but a place where local youth are given job opportunities that teach leadership skills, teamwork, and experience in the hospitality field. They are a huge advocate for our high school and college students; giving flexible schedules, supporting their education, goals and dreams. Willow Heights Mansion provides a positive work environment where each person learns the value of teamwork and work ethics.”
School of the Year: Barrett Elementary School
“Barrett school is a community filled with respect, kindness and commitment from their teachers, staff, parents, students and community partners. Campus administrators and teachers believe all children deserve a happy and caring environment to learn, to grow and to belong to something special. This school takes pride in engaging students with leadership opportunities such as Expect Respect, Student Council, and being Bucket Fillers.”
Adult Role Model of the Year: Karen Crane
“Mrs. Crane is a ‘Shining Star’ in our community. On our school campuses, she fills the air with music and laughter! She teaches music at Los Paseos, Barrett, P.A. Walsh, and El Toro (elementary schools). Her commitment to our community is endless. She is always willing to help out whenever needed. Morgan Hill is a happier place because of our Mrs. Crane.”
Adult Role Model of the Year: Saul Gonzalez
“Saul has been a key staff person for the Cal-grip program through Community Solutions for 3 1/2 years. He is hardworking, dedicated and takes his role as an intervention program specialist to a new level. Saul has the best interests of his clients, families and the community in all that he does. Saul’s youth are ‘At Promise’ not ‘At Risk,’ in his opinion. He is responsible for many programs, from one-to-one case management to Late Night Gym to groups and school outreach. Our community is a better place because of his efforts.”
