Andrew Carnegie wasn’t the first—and definitely wasn’t the last—philanthropist to be honored for his gift to Santa Maria. On Nov. 5, the annual Celebrate Philanthropy! luncheon will honor people who have contributed immensely to benefit the community of the Santa Maria Valley.
The Allan Hancock College, Marian Medical Center, and Santa Barbara foundations originally created the event—this will be its second annual celebration.
“So much of that work goes unseen,” Celebrate Philanthropy! committee member Judy Frost said in a statement. “And we want to raise the profile of some of these philanthropic works.”
More than 200 letters were sent out to the community, requesting the stories and names of people who have generously donated their time, talent, and money to help the community.
“This is an extraordinarily giving community,” Mayor Larry Lavagnino said. “Santa Maria has a long history of heartfelt volunteer involvement and special events to benefit worthy causes. Our community is stronger because we celebrate philanthropy.”
An independent committee, made up of representatives from a diverse collection of Santa Maria Valley organizations, chose three nominees: Henri and Jeanie Ardantz, Clarence and Rosalie Minetti, and Dr. Dennis and Franziska Shepard.
The nominees will be recognized at the event, and attendees will hear their stories—and, perhaps, be inspired to follow suit in their own way.
Last year, Joe and Jean Olivera, Mark and Dorothy Smith, and Jay and Anne Will were honored.
The event is sponsored by the Santa Maria Times, and will be held at the Santa Maria Country Club. Reservations are required, and the cost is $25. For more information, call 346-6123.
Intern Henry Houston compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Oct 29 – Nov 4, 2009.