KNX Hero of the Week: Recent Episodes
Audacy
From teaching construction skills to working small jobs, to learning money management and inspiring self love! Bryant is opening a world of possibility to each young person who goes through his Handy Blessed Hands Youth Mentorship Program.Photo: Bryant Sparrow with students in the Handy Blessed Hands Youth Mentorship Program, on a trip to a local 5-star restaurant to learn etiquette and money management.
At just 21 years-old, Shant is a rising star within the medical profession! A long-time volunteer, the Glendale native is quickly moving up the ranks in the field of healthcare administration, brushing shoulders with some of the best community leaders and healthcare professionals in Southern California! Photo: Courtesy of Shant Kevorkian
Sheri Waldstein is the founder of Happy Hats for Kids in Hospitals, a non-profit based in LA County. Her team of volunteers have gifted more than 1.3 million hats to families around the world! Photo: Sheri Waldstein, courtesy of Happy Hats for Kids in Hospitals.
Volunteers with "Bee A Little Better" meet EVERY Thursday on Skid Row, to hand out fresh, hot food and much-needed hygiene supplies, spreading hope and cheer as they do it! Photo: Byron Takeuchi (second from right), helping feed a group of people in Downtown Los Angeles.
American Red Cross Volunteers Vesta Sung and her daughter, Nathalie Sung, stepped-up when a deadly wildfire erupted during their vacation in Hawaii. Working as leaders while volunteering, they helped feed and shelter around 1,200 evacuees! Vesta later used her emergency response experience to help when Los Angeles County was hit with similar fires in January of 2025. Photo: Vesta Sung (left) and Nathalie Sung (right), courtesy of the Sung family.
If you need some motivation or a dose of inspiration, meet Dr. Cynthia West! She’s helping entrepreneurs excel in SoCal! Photo: Dr Cynthia West, courtesy of Chapman University and the Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics. https://www.chapman.edu/research/institutes-and-centers/leatherby-center/
Tara Collins-Felix and Monica Harden signed up three years ago to volunteer with Make-A-Wish of Orange County and the Inland Empire. They say the experience has been life changing! Photo courtesy of Tara Collins-Felix and Monica Harden https://wish.org/ocie
From hurricane relief in Hawaii and St Croix, to the recent wildfires in Los Angeles - Carmela Burke is making a big difference in our community and around the world! Photo: Carmela Burke helping at an emergency shelter in Westwood, courtesy of Carmela Burke and the American Red Cross. https://www.redcross.org/
April is National Volunteer Month, and we are recognizing one of the best! Josh Carranco has been mentoring his "Little Brother" Bryan for about three years now, and together they are enhancing each other's lives! Photo: Josh and Bryan, courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters OC. The waitlist for kids is long, connect and learn more at https://www.ocbigs.org
Compassion Prison Project is changing the lives of thousands of incarcerated people by bringing awareness to childhood trauma, and providing hope for a better future! Photo: Fritzi Horstman, Founder and Executive Director of Compassion Prison Project.
Avid cyclists Mark Scotch (left) and Donor Coordinator Ernie Villalon (right) are cycling April 4th from Santa Monica to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, then to Keck Medicine of USC, to raise awareness for living organ donation! Photo courtesy of Keck Medicine of USC, Mark Scotch and Ernie Villalon.
Angel City Sports is a non-profit based in LA that provides year-round adaptive sports opportunities for kids, adults and veterans with physical disabilities or visual impairments! Photo: 2-time Paralympic Gold Medalist Ezra Frech and a fellow athlete at last year’s inaugural Youth Weekend! Photo courtesy of Clayton Frech and Angel City Sports. Connect at https://angelcitysports.org
inspiration He’s re-learning how to walk and swim, but through persistence and hard-work, Andrew is already adaptive-surfing those same waters where he suffered the life-changing stroke. Photo: Andrew poses with a physical therapist, after taking part in an adaptive surfing lesson in the ocean with the non-profit, Life Rolls On. https://liferollson.org/
Both born and raised in Southern California, Cheryl and Craig Matheny are helping build stable foundations for people all over their community and the world, through their charitable donations. Photo: Cheryl and Craig, courtesy of the Matheny Family. Connect at https://thesolidmount.com/
In honor of National Donor Day, we hear the story of a loving husband and father of four, who tragically died after an accident. His family was able to donate four of his organs to people who desperately needed them! His wife also shifted her nursing career afterwards, so she could make a bigger impact to her community. Photo: Genesis Clark-Singh, holding a floragraph of her late husband, Aaron, at the 136th Rose Parade in Pasadena. Courtesy of Genesis Clark-Singh.
Meet Girl Scouts of Orange County Junior, Devon Noonan of Troop 7370, who’s helping lead the way towards a better, safer world! Photo: Devon Noonan, helping package holiday gift boxes filled with toys and supplies for the non-profit, Waymakers OC. Photo courtesy of Girl Scouts of Orange County. See more pictures at the KNX Hero story page.
Founder and Culinary Director, Chef Bill Bracken (left), and a few of his volunteers, going above and beyond to help during the recent fire crisis. https://www.brackenskitchen.org/ Photo: Courtesy of Bracken’s Kitchen, based in Orange County.
Klover King Agency mobilized their team of all-star food vendors, did live-streaming on TikTok, and assembled thousands of volunteers in a massive relief effort at the Rose Bowl and Santa Anita Race Track! Photo: "Klover King" Christopher Bailey and Holt Williams. https://linktr.ee/kloverkinglosangeles
Jennifer Alden and her family of four had to evacuate from the Palisades Fire. She also helped a neighbor evacuate, and helped a car crash victim the day before! You can assist the family here: https://gofund.me/3eb1027e #KNXHero (Photo: Jennifer, her husband Bobby, and her kids Asher and Jordan. Courtesy of Jennifer Alden)
Family, friends and volunteers help pack and distribute hundreds of suitcases for kids in foster care in Orange County. Photo courtesy of Debby Thrailkill.Connect at https://www.sco-oc.org/debby-thrailkill-a-case-for-kids/
From swimming around islands... to running over two dozen marathons! Some of our KNX Heroes from 2024 accomplished incredible feats, all in the name of helping others! Heroes include Edie Markovich, Summer Willis, Saara Dang & Rohan Soni, and WWII Vet Joe "Peppy" Sciarra. (Photo: Edie Markovich, courtesy of Glenn Zucman)
Heroic. Compassionate. Giving. So many words describe our incredible KNX heroes who went above and beyond to save a person in need this past year! Photo: Chris Goetze (left) and Larry Brown (right), courtesy of C. Goetze.
Photo: Addie Matthews (far left), at her 5K/Fundraiser for RAD. Photo courtesy of Clara DeLain @claradelainphoto
Dr. Damon Clark is a trauma surgeon with Keck Medicine of USC. He's also making a big impact with several outreach programs, including free tattoo removal for people wanting a new start on life after a negative or traumatic experience. Photo: Dr. Damon Clark, Courtesy of Keck Medicine of USC.
In the right place at the right time, with the right training! Meet Jeremy Aldridge and Daniel Maciel, with Lanark Recreation Center in Canoga Park! [Photo: Recreation Assistant Daniel Maciel (left) and Senior Director Jeremy Aldridge (right), courtesy of Jeremy Aldridge.]
Linda Chiu, Program Chair Pam Hadfield, and members of the Surfside Quilters Guild donate around 400 hand-made quilts a year, all across SoCal! They go to our veterans, patients at Children’s Hospital, and more! Linda Chiu (left) and Pam Hadfield (right) in front of a quilt at a recent meeting.
Dave Drulias runs the horse rescue organization, Because We Can, Because We Care. Healing through connection with the animals, BWC2 helps kids with special needs, first responders and veterans dealing with PTSD.Photo: Dave Drulias at the ranch, courtesy of Dave DruliasConnect: https://www.bwc2.org
Listen as "Peppy" shares more about his time in the Army Infantry, and the decades he spent with the love of the life!Photo: 99 year-old Joe "Peppy" Sciarra of Arcadia, courtesy of Rae Kearney
He's an American treasure! Our KNX Hero of the Week, the courageous, witty and compassionate Joe "Peppy" Sciarra of Arcadia! Photo: Joe Sciarra, recently speaking at the Field of Glory ceremony, captured by Steven Castro of Eagle Photography.
She's giving kids equitable opportunities to learn and grow through the art of music and theatre! And, she's inspiring people of all ages to be great. Meet Debora Wondercheck of Arts and Learning Conservatory in Orange County! (Photo: Debora Wondercheck, conducting a live performance, courtesy of ALC.)https://www.artsandlearning.org
She’s dedicated her life to protecting our oceans, and the animals and people who rely on it to live. Meet Valarie Van Cleave of Orange County, who’s spearheading efforts to preserve our planet’s largest resource!Photo: Valarie Van Cleave with Oceana's Sea Change Summer Party (courtesy of Valarie Van Cleave)
Meet Boxing Coach and Sports Performance Specialist, Aldair Perez! He reached out to an OC mother after hearing about how her son was getting bullied at school. It started with a free class to teach him some self-defense skills, but the teenager is now in regular training, gaining his power and confidence back!Photo: Aldair Perez and 14 year-old Thomas Smith, courtesy of Tamme Smith
Meet Arden Pala of Sports4Kids! Our KNX Hero of the Week is making a big impact with his non-profit, which provides free sports clinics for schools that can't afford sports programs! Photo: Arden Pala, courtesy of Sports4Kids Connect at http://www.sports4.org
Anne Minder is inspiring kids through the science of flight! She’s a leader with years of corporate training experience, a tireless volunteer, and she’s very passionate about STEM! Click the link above to hear Anne chat with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan, about a special STEM Day program hosted by the Torrance Airport, for local high school students!
Photo: A recent STEM Day at the Torrance Airport, involving volunteer engineers and pilots, and students within the Torrance Unified School District. Courtesy of Anne Minder. See more pictures at the heroes page at http://www.KNXNews.com.
Meet our incredibly talented KNX Heroes of the Week! 17 year-old Saara Dang and 16 year-old Rohan Soni have created a special space for kids dealing with chronic and mental illness. Inspired by Saara’s younger brother, who was diagnosed with a chronic kidney disease, the Orange County high school students created a documentary film that highlights the challenges kids with illness may face. Then they built a cell phone app that creates a community for kids to share their feelings and meet new friends with similar situations! Click the link to hear Saara and Rohan chat with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan!
Connect with Dear Me at https://www.dearmementalhealth.com/
Photo: Saara Dang and Rohan Soni
Photo courtesy of Saara Dang and Rohan Soni
Jenna Grabow and her soon to be sister-in-law, Anna Lundmark, are changing the landscape when it comes to employment for people with autism! After struggling to find a job post-graduation, Jenna teamed up with Anna to create their own company. It’s called “Beauty by Jenna” and one of their missions is to hire dozens of skilled and talented people who are also differently-abled. Hear Jenna and Anna chat with Heroes host Heather Jordan about their mission and products, by clicking the link!
Photo: Jenna Grabow (left) and Anna Lundmark (right), courtesy of Anna Lundmark
Connect with "Beauty by Jenna" here: https://shopbeautybyjenna.com/collections/all
This summer, 18 year-old Kai Yamamoto of Long Beach was named a recipient of the nationwide 2024 Girl Scout Gold Award, for her incredible educational project! It's aimed at at building an anti-racist future and developing more respect and empathy for those of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage. The project was so impressive, California State University-Long Beach now offers it as a free, college credit course! Click the link to hear Kai chat about her AAPI project and what she plans for her future with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan!
Photo: Kai Yamamoto (center) receiving her GSUSA Gold Award Scholarship check. Courtesy of the Girl Scouts of Orange County. Also in the picture, GSOC's CEO Dr. Vikki Shepp and GSOC's Board of Directors' Chair Christine Scheuneman.
https://www.girlscouts.org
Mike Learakos is a former restauranteur with over 30 years in the food industry, and a long-time volunteer supporting thousands of people across SoCal. Mike is also the CEO of Abound Food Care based in Orange County, and his team works hard to eliminate food waste! September is Hunger Action Month, so Mike tells KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan that now is the time to lend a hand!
Photo: Mike Learakos, courtesy of Mike Learakos and Abound Food Care
Leading her community with leaps and bounds, Chloe Gruenberg is not your typical high school student! She’s an accomplished ballerina, she teaches technique to young students in Orange County, and she’s also a dedicated volunteer with over 300 hundred of hours of service! She's involved with RAD, Special Camp and so much more... click the link to hear Chloe chat with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan!
Photo: Chloe Gruenberg, courtesy of Ulrika Molin Photography
It's one of the toughest things in life - transitioning onto a new path. For many members of the military, it can be extremely overwhelming when searching for the right career after years of service. So, this is where Adam Van Dyke steps in to help. And it's not just simple guidance - he volunteers his time, making sure his clients are set on the right path that's fulfilling and respectful of their incredible skills.
Click on the link to hear a special "extended interview" with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan and Adam Van Dyke of Orange County.
Photo: Adam Van Dyke (right) and his family; wife Karen and daughter Kayten, and Kali. Photo courtesy of the Van Dyke family.
Connect with Adam at Veterati: https://www.veterati.com
Connect with Adam at Rising Tides Coaching & Consulting Int'l: https://rtcci.com
https://www.beyondblindness.org/
Photo: Angie Rowe, CEO of Beyond Blindness (center)
Photo Courtesy of Noel Besuzzi
Photo: Bill Bracken, courtesy of Bracken's Kitchen
Connect at https://www.brackenskitchen.org
FixNation is a non-profit clinic in LA County that offers free spay and neuter services to the thousands of homeless, stray, and community cats across the metro. They also provide additional services, community support and low-cost options for people with pets. Founded by local cat-lovers Karn Myers and her late husband Mark Dodge. Click the link to hear Karn share some of their incredible story!
Connect at https://fixnation.org
Photo: Karn Myers at FixNation. Courtesy of FixNation
Addie Matthews of Mission Viejo is impacting lives in a big way! A year ago, she volunteered as a camp counselor for https://radcamp.org, a SoCal non-profit that offers camps for kids and adults who are differently-abled, or have special needs. This year, Addie decided that she would not only volunteer again, but she would fundraise and help pay the way for as many campers as possible! Click the link above to hear Addie chat with KNX Hero's Host Heather Jordan about her fundraiser, and other outreach!
Photo: Addie Matthews (middle) at her RAD Decades 5K event https://fundraise.radcamp.org/event/walking-through-the-decades-5k/e574621
Photo courtesy of Clara DeLain / @claradelainphoto
Spreading kindness and compassion, while nurturing a community! Through the non-profit https://www.cropswapla.org, founder Jamiah Hargins is helping fight food insecurity across SoCal and the world! He's inspiring urban gardeners, creating access for affordable, nutrient-rich food... and motivating our youth through leadership! Hear Jamiah talk about Crop Swap LA with KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan, by clicking the link!
Photo: Jamiah Hargins, courtesy of Crop Swap LA
CPR training in a class at school helped Downey High School senior, Isaac Delgadillo save the life of a collapsed umpire during a recent baseball game! Isaac knew just what to do, when the man fell to the ground behind home plate. His quick action made all the difference! Hear Isaac share his story with KNX Hero's host Heather Jordan, by clicking the link above.
Photo: Isaac Delgadillo, courtesy of David Carrillo @Carrillo4k
Nicki Clark knows how tough it can be to attend school while homeless. When she was a teenager, unexpected circumstances forced her and her mother out of their home and into the streets, starting a new life and with new struggles. School was always super important, so now as an adult, Nicki is giving back to kids in a similar situation. She's an award-winning volunteer tutor with School on Wheels, and she shares part of her inspiring story with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan!
Photo: Nicki Clark receiving her 2024 Volunteer Award from the non-profit, School on Wheels. Photo courtesy of School on Wheels https://schoolonwheels.org
Carol Gibson is making a difference in the lives of low-income seniors all across Southern California! Medical experts and health professionals have documented that music and art can benefit an aging person in many ways, but not all facilities or senior living centers can afford programs that provide these activities. So, Carol and her team of volunteers at Compassionate Artists step in! From live music to arts and crafts, Carol shares with Heroes host Heather Jordan all that they provide, and the impact they are making!
Connect at http://compassionateartists.org/
Photo: Carol Gibson, courtesy of Paul Gibson
Every year, the Kevin Armstrong M.D. Memorial Sports Foundation distributes hundreds of pairs of shoes to deserving kids in Santa Ana, to help keep them active for the spring and summer. There's nothing better than a new pair of kicks to build confidence in a young person! KAMSF Vice President Karen Armstrong checks in with Heroes Host Heather Jordan about their recent distribution!
Photo: Courtesy of Kevin Armstrong M.D. Memorial Sports Foundation
Connect at https://www.armstrongmdfoundation.org
For nearly two decades, Chef Bruno Serato has been feeding our SoCal community, and communities around the world. Reaching an incredible milestone, Chef Bruno speaks with Heroes Host Heather Jordan about serving his 10-millionth meal with his non-profit, Caterina's Club. Chef Bruno also reveals how he felt getting chosen as a recipient for the 2024 President's Lifetime Achievement Award!
https://caterinasclub.org
https://www.chefbrunoserato.com/
https://anaheimwhitehouse.com/
Photo: Chef Bruno Serato, in his kitchen preparing hot pasta meals for distribution. Photo Courtesy of Caterina's Club.
Track meets, team building and tassles! We check in with L'Mio Edwards, who's in the middle of an exciting track season with Claremont High School. She's also building her non-profit "Team L'Mio" and the senior is getting ready for graduation!
Hear the latest with Host Heather Jordan, by clicking the link!
Connect at https://teamlmio.com
Photo: L'Mio Edwards, courtesy of L'Mio Edwards
There are times in life when we need a strong support system. For some people, however, that can be hard to find. With a mission to make a difference, retired Superior Court Judge Songhai Armstead is leading the way with JCOD, the new Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department with LA County! The Los Angeles native is a longtime advocate for the underserved, and a justice system innovator, and she speaks with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about their newest programs! Connect with JCOD at https://jcod.lacounty.gov
Photo: Judge Songhai Armstead (left) at a recent community event.
Photo courtesy of the Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department
Fighting hunger, preventing food waste and cultivating community! Former KNX Hero of the Week Natalie Flores-Blackner chats with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about their new program called Fruity Fridays, that gives homeowners with fruit trees a way to donate their abundant produce! Natalie also talks about the incredible growth of Nourish LA, since beginning in an alleyway in 2020.
Connect: https://www.nourish.la
Photo: Courtesy of Ken Kerbs Photos**
From Hawaii to the Hudson Bay, to the coast of Croatia... our KNX Hero of the Week is making a big statement, when it comes to keeping our oceans and waterways healthy! 18 year-old Edie Markovich of Los Angeles is the founder of Outswimming Hunger, and she's partnering with organizations that are making a difference in our communities! Hear her share her recent accomplishments with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan, by clicking on the link above.
Photo: Edie Markovich, before her recent 12-hour swim at the ELAC swim stadium, to raise money for Heal The Bay.
Photo courtesy of Glenn Zucman
Driver Austin Varco and his Race4Autism campaign is gearing up for an exciting 2024, kicking things off with Austin's debut at the NASCAR Advanced Auto Parts Series at Irwindale Speedway. Racing to the finish line with former KNX Heroes "Special Needz Coffee" as one of his sponsors, Austin is making a big impact in the ASD community! Hear the latest with our former hero by clicking the link above.
Follow Austin and his Race4Autism events at: https://www.austinvarco.com/race4autism
Photo: Austin Varco, courtesy of Ivan Velasco
A passion project for 13 year-old RJ Hermes is making a big impact on local shelter dogs and their future forever-families! The creative mind behind the "Operation Pawesomeness" campaign - RJ has collected over 350 items for our canine friends, like dog beds, collars, treats and more! Hear RJ share his story with KNX Hero's host Heather Jordan by clicking the link.
Want to donate? Connect with RJ and Operation Pawesomeness at: https://www.gofundme.com/operation-pawesomeness
Photo: RJ Hermes, with his "Operation Pawesomeness" campaign posters and boxes.
Photo courtesy of Amy and Ben Hermes
A true example of bravery and heroism! When doctors at Keck Medicine of USC determined Saul Casillas and Kathya Rocha matched with each other's sibling who needed an organ transplant, they didn't hesitate to donate! Click the link to hear this incredible - and rare - journey of love, compassion and triumph!
Photo: Jim Kim, MD, transplant surgeon with Keck Medicine of USC; Joselin Casillas; Kathya Rocha; Saul Casillas; Jaime Rocha Fernandez (left to right)
Courtesy of Keck Medicine of USC
The Tesoro High School Junior is making a big difference in the SoCal community, inspiring young girls and teens with scoliosis! Brooke Walker knows how tough it can be during treatment or surgery, herself undergoing a multi-level back fusion two years ago. After her recovery, Brooke turned to mentorship and volunteering, and now leads the Orange County chapter of Curvy Girls, showing how you can stay powerful and strong through the challenges! Click the link to hear more about Brooke's incredible work and journey!
Connect with Curvy Girls: https://www.curvygirlsscoliosis.com
Photo: Brooke Walker, courtesy of Randee and Derek Walker
It's all about giving back to the community and changing the lives of young people, for Eric Horn! During the week he serves Los Angeles as a police officer, and on the weekends he inspires hundreds of kids with the NE Little League! Eric is not only a coach, he's the president of the league, helping provide a stable and positive environment for families all across the metro. Hear Eric chat about the league with KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan, by clicking the link!
Photo: Eric Horn (right), and a colleague
Photo courtesy of Eric Horn
Trauma can hold us back in many ways. As a way of healing from a horrific rape while in college, Summer Willis decided to conquer the darkness that surrounded that moment. At the age of 29, she bravely decided to make a stand, and raise her voice for herself and others. Her mission is to advocate for survivors of rape and raise funding for support and services, all while running 29 marathons in one year. For the LA Marathon on March 17th, Summer will finish the last mile in high heels, as a show of strength, power and beauty. She shared part of her story with KNX's Heather Jordan... click the link to hear her inspiring words.
You can also connect with Summer, donate and support her marathon challenges, and get more of her inspiring story at https://strengththroughstrides.org
Photo: Summer Willis and her two sons, along with the mattress she will put on her back while running 26.2 miles in New York City.
Photo courtesy of Avery Moffitt
Benjamin Levy and his wife, Trang, were in the right place at the right time when a brush fire started burning next to some train tracks. Without hesitation, Benjamin flagged down an oncoming train, found a fire extinguisher and helped save the area until firefighters could arrive. Truly heroic actions! Listen to Benjamin tell the incredible story to KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan by clicking the link!
Photo: Benjamin and Trang Levy
See a photo from the scene at the Heroes page at KNXNews.com
Meet Katina Holliday! She's the CEO and founder of Holliday's Helping Hands, based in Carson, CA. It's an organization that improves the quality of life for disenfranchised individuals through love, faith and giving second chances. With seven locations and two more about to open, her non-profit is making a BIG difference in our SoCal community! Hear Katina chat with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about their recent outreach event, called a Day of Love! https://hollidayshh.org
Photo: Katina Holliday during the recent Day of Love event with HHH.
Courtesy of Lonnie Neal
The Jessie Rees Foundation is supporting families fighting childhood cancer all around the world! Based in Orange County, the non-profit's mission is to never, ever give up - or the term “NEGU®” - which was young Jessie's motto as she courageously battled terminal cancer. After she passed in early 2012, her family continued her legacy and the foundation, touching hundreds of thousands of lives. Jessie's daddy and the foundation's CEO, Erik Rees chats with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about Jessie's story and how her love continues to impact the world today! https://negu.org
Photo: Jessie Rees, filling her JoyJars®
Photo Courtesy of the Jessie Rees Foundation, and Troy Tertany
Santa Margarita High School senior Rachel Phillips is changing the lives of young people with Down syndrome, through her volunteer work and leadership! She's involved in programs with the National Association of Down Syndrome and Gigi's Playhouse, and she's also the creator of the SMHS club "Buddies Beyond Boundaries". Hear Rachel chat about it with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan!
Photo: Rachel Phillips (courtesy of Rachel Phillips)
Quick action, quick thinking and not giving up! Site foreman Chris Goetze saved the life of contractor Larry Brown, after an accident on the job. Hear Chris and Larry share their inspiring story with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan!
Photo: Chris Goetze, VP of MG Plumbing, and private contractor Larry Brown
Photo courtesy of Chris Goetze
It can get cold at night in Southern California, making it nearly unbearable for thousands of people who live without a permanent roof over their head. So, Peyton Hitzler is trying to help, one coat at a time! She started Coco's Coats five years ago, collecting warm clothing to give to those in need. She's already helped more than 500 people stay warm! Hear the Capistrano Valley High School senior chat with host Heather Jordan about her project, by clicking on the link!
Connect with Peyton on her Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/cocos.coats/#
Photo: Peyton Hitzler with several bags of donated coats. Courtesy of Amy Hitzler
Shaurya Bairaria is a rising star in Southern California! The Canyon Crest Academy junior is the creator of the SoCal non-profit, "Tennis Without Borders." A few years back, Shaurya was sidelined from competitive tennis for nearly a year with an athletic injury. When he stepped back on the court, he realized how much joy the sport of tennis brings, and he decided that he wanted to make sure ALL kids around the world get a chance to feel that same joy! Through his non-profit, he's helping under-privilged kids play by providing them shoes, rackets, and more! Click on the link to hear Shaurya chat with KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan, and visit Shaurya's website: https://bit.ly/3u71znM
Photo: Shaurya Bairaria speaking at a recent Del Mar Rotary Club meeting.
Photo courtesy of Bhawna Dhar.
There are over 3,000 children in the foster system in Orange County, with thousands more in Los Angeles County and all across Southern California. Community change-maker Debby Thrailkill is creating smiles and bringing comfort to many of these kids, with the "My Own - A Case for Kids" project. Debby collects and distributes suitcases filled with clothes and supplies for foster kids who need more than a trash bag for their belongings. In just a year, she has already given away more than 700 cases! Click on the link to hear Debby share her story with KNX Hero host Heather Jordan!
http://www.myowncaseoc.com
Photo: Debby Thrailkill (right) and core team member Isabel Bloom, packing suitcases.
Photo courtesy of Debby Thrailkill
Heroes helping heroes... heroes delivering babies! In 2023, we honored some incredible people from Southern California, who made a big difference in our community! Heroes host Heather Jordan looks back at some of our most inspiring stories!
Photo: Manhattan Beach Fire Department and the Phillips family, after the unexpected birth of their newborn baby! Photo Credit: MBFD
From llamas to sea lions... several of our KNX heroes of 2023 came face to face, or face to snout, with an animal! In some cases, our human heroes saved an animal... in other cases, a four-legged friend helped save people! Click the link to hear KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan recap the year!
Photo: Ron Barrett, saving an injured sea lion along the Ventura County Coastline.
Photo courtesy of Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institute.
California is home to some AMAZING young people, who are going above and beyond to make a difference! This year, our young KNX Heroes were all about serving others... click on the link to hear KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan recap their incredible stories!
Photo above: Theo Schwartz and CJ Stanback with the Reading Rovers Program, courtesy of the Pasadena Humane Society
Dr. David Gazzaniga is a sports medicine doctor at Hoag Orthopedic Institute, and he's also the head physician for the LA Chargers! During football season, he and his colleagues run a free, no insurance needed health clinic in Orange County for injured high school football players! Not only does it help families who struggle financially, but it also helps families avoid a long and sometimes costly emergency room visit. Hear Dr. Gazzaniga share more about the clinic with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan, by clicking the link!
Photo, Dr. David Gazzaniga, courtesy of the Los Angeles Chargers
Ten feet of snow. Trapped cars and homes that were completely covered. Closed roads and freezing temperatures. When a blizzard hit the California mountain town of Crestline earlier this year, Danielle Follweiler and her husband jumped into action to help save dozens of lives. She shares her story with KNX's Heather Jordan!
Photo: Danielle and Jeremy Follweiler, courtesy of Danielle Follweiler
Bravery Ron Barrett is a field rescue volunteer with the Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institute, and he was called in to help when a 400-pound sea lion was found with a knife in its snout! It was a risky rescue, but Ron's experience and skill allowed him to successfully remove the knife without any additional injuries! Click the link to hear Ron share his heroic story with host, Heather Jordan!
Photo: Ron Barrett, courtesy of Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institute.
See more pictures of the injured sea lion at KNX Heroes | Audacy
Inclusion 17 year-old Anisha Bhatnagar is helping students at Woodbridge High School in Irvine have the resources and opportunities to take part in the Science Olympiad! Clubs can get expensive, so as a fundraising project, Anisha created a special camp for kids with a full curriculum and science experiments. It was super successful, and Anisha was able to support students and their families that have trouble making ends meet. Click on the link to hear Anisha speak more about her efforts with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan!
Photo courtesy of Lara Bhatnagar
Move Through Motivation is a movement aimed at spreading compassion, positivity, and resiliency throughout the community! "One person can’t move a mountain…but together we can." Co-founder Matt Olson talks with KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan about the benefits of being active and how exercise can help heal, especially when it comes to our veterans and anyone battling PTSD.
Move Through Motivation
Photo: Courtesy of Move Through Motivation
Dr. Katie Nenneker and her team serve LA and Ventura Counties, helping farmers and pet owners with all types of large animals! Llamas, horses, cows, sheep, chickens... you name it! She and her husband Greg also run the Nenn Foundation, which is designed to help people who need a little help paying the vet bill. They also want to build an animal hospital, and more! Click on the link to hear Dr. Nenn share all that they do with KNX Hero host, Heather Jordan!
Photo courtesy of Dr. Katie Nenneker
Security guard Jack Hibard of Hemet is a true hero! He jumped into action when a woman collapsed and stopped breathing. He administered CPR, got her breathing again, and kept her alive until paramedics could take her to the hospital. And that's not all! Jack is now helping people in Hawaii after a deadly disaster! Hear him share his story with Heroes host Heather Jordan, by clicking the link above.
Photo: Jack Hibard, courtesy of Don Hibard
Award-winning long-distance runner L'Mio Edwards continues to add to her achievements, and she's now embarking on an exciting new program that turns athletes into scholars! The Claremont High School senior is also bringing cultural awareness and inclusivity to her SoCal community. Hear her conversation with host Heather Jordan, by clicking the link above!
Photo: L'Mio Edwards, running for Claremont High School
Photo courtesy of Greg Smotherman from Smotherman Images
Veronica Huerta of Los Angeles is truly remarkable! She's making a difference in our community in a number of ways, and a KNX Hero in every sense of the word. She's keeping people healthy, fed and inspired! Hear her incredible story with KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan by clicking the link above.
Photo: Veronica Huerta, Infection Preventionist at Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center and member of the Mexico National Curling Team
Photo courtesy the World Curling Federation
Theo Schwartz and Larry "CJ" Stanback are making a big difference in our community! The two 6th-graders at Dahlia Heights Elementary spend their free time at the Pasadena Humane Society, as part of their Reading Rovers program. The friends read their favorite books to dogs awaiting adoption, getting them ready for their forever home! Click on the link to hear their inspiring interview with Heroes host, Heather Jordan!
Photo: Theo (left) and "CJ" (right)
Photos courtesy of: Pasadena Humane Society, Kristine Henderson & Shannon Schwartz
Pasadena Humane | Compassionate Care for Animals Since 1903
Sports medicine physician Daniel Diaz of Downey is making a big difference in our SoCal community! Not only does he work for AltaMed Health Services, he volunteers his time at local high schools, filling in as a team physician or team doctor. He also shares with KNX Hero host Heather Jordan about the passion he has for his family, and bridging the gap when it comes to underserved communities.
Photo: Dr. Daniel Diaz, working as the event physician for the NCAA Mountain West Basketball Tournament at Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, NV
Photo courtesy of Daniel Diaz
Animal Resource Officer Michael Carcano (above) and his fellow colleagues with the San Manuel Animal Resource Team are keeping wildlife - and people - safe on the reservation! Stray dogs, or pets that wander from home are often found along the hills, so Carcano and the team work hard to find the pet's family, or get the strays adopted! Click the link to hear more with KNX Hero host, Heather Jordan!
Photo credit: San Manuel Animal Resource Team
Mike Barnard is a respiratory therapist at Dignity Health St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard, and he's helping kids feel better with Hot Wheels! Over the last six years, he's handed out more than 5,000 toys to pediatric patients getting treatment, or to kids visiting the hospital with a family member! Click the link to hear all about his amazing work, and why he's our #KNXHero of the Week!
Photo credit: Dignity Health St. John’s Regional Medical Center
Pauly's Project is changing lives in Skid Row, with music and a lot of love! Providing battery operated radios, clothing, food and more each month to around 400 people! Paul, his son Pauly, and their team - are true heroes! Click to hear Paul chat with KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan about the latest events.
Connect with Pauly's Project here: Pauly's Project | Helping The Homeless in Los Angeles (paulysproject.org)
Above: Paul Avila and his son, Pauly. Photo courtesy of Paul Avila
She's a miracle, no doubt! Doris Hernandez-Morales is bringing hope and smiles to stroke survivors at Dignity Health - Northridge Hospital Medical Center, working as a volunteer and advocate. Doris knows how tough it can be, recovering after the life-threatening medical emergency. Click the link to hear how she delivered a healthy baby just months after losing her physical mobility, and how she regained her speech!
In the photo: Doris, her husband and two sons (courtesy of Doris Hernandez-Morales).
He started a mission about four years ago: daily trash pickups at his local park. Edgar has now trekked more than 1,400 times across California, picking up thousands of pounds of trash! Hear his inspiring story with KNX Hero host Heather Jordan, by clicking the link. You can also connect with Edgar online at @edgarrmcgregor
Photo courtesy of Edgar McGregor
Steven Zonis and his therapy dog Rudy work with Blue Line Dogs (bluelinedogsla.com) across the Los Angeles area! Created by Gil Escontrias, Blue Line Dogs offer mental relief - and a lot of joy - to our heroes in uniform! Firefighters, police officers, first responders, and more. Click on the audio link to hear about their incredible mission!
Meet the twelve loving and trained pups here: Our Dogs (bluelinedogsla.com)
Photo: Steven Zonis and Rudy. Photo credit: Steven Zonis
Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week, Jessica Hubbard! As the CEO of Casa Youth Shelter in Los Alamitos, she is praised for her leadership and compassion. She also goes above and beyond to help each and every young person who comes to their door! Her dedication to helping youth who are dealing with crisis - is unmatched!
Photo: CEO Jessica Hubbard
Connect at Casa Youth Shelter, Welcome! - Casa Youth Shelter
LA City Fireman Theo Krzywicki is the founder and CEO of End Overdose, a non-profit based in Los Angeles that works to end drug-related overdose deaths through education, intervention and awareness. They are saving lives... by spreading the word about Naloxone to millions of people around the U.S.!
For more information, go to: End Overdose – End Overdose is a leading 501c3 nonprofit providing online and in person opioid overdose response training.
Photo: Theo Krzywicki at the EDC music festival, courtesy of End Overdose.
Pastor Troy Vaughn was once homeless, and he knows first-hand what it's like to live on Skid Row. But, he had a dream and a vision to be better, and to help others! With nearly thirty years of working in healthcare and the non-profit sector, Pastor Troy stepped into his new role in the fall of 2020, helping the unhoused as the President and CEO of the Los Angeles Mission!
Photo: Pastor Troy Vaughn, courtesy of the Los Angeles Mission
Good Samaritan Hector Gonzalez of Norwalk recently reunited with the CHP Officer he rescued from a burning car! Click the link to hear the incredible story featuring our #HelpfulHonda Heroes of the Week!
Photo: Hector Gonzalez and his family, receiving an award from the California Highway Patrol. Courtesy of the CHP
Belen Ramirez is paying it forward to the nurses and care team at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, who saved her son, Victor, after a traumatic motorcycle accident during the pandemic. As a volunteer, Belen is grabbing towels, cleaning up messes, holding hands and assisting the care team with non-medical tasks. She's also going back to school, inspiring everyone around her! She's our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week!
Photo: Belen Ramirez, courtesy of Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center
Home cooking is a way of life at the Tostado household in Ontario, but when Flor Tostado blended her signature salsas, her autistic son Liam would have a severe reaction to the loud noise. So, to help make things easier, Flor decided to get Liam involved in the process! She now sells "Spicy Mami Salsa" to help raise awareness - donating proceeds to local autism organizations!
Connect here: https://www.instagram.com/spicymamisalsas/
Photo courtesy of Flor Tostado
When Hanna Phillips went into labor unexpectedly, the team of firefighter paramedics were on hand, to help everyone stay safe!
Photo credit: Hanna Phillips, Manhattan Beach Fire Department
La Verne Science and Technology Charter First Grader Brady Ahumada didn't want presents for his May birthday, he wanted to help others. So, he raised money through a lemonade stand, and thousands of dollars were put towards feeding the homeless, helping families in need, and other outreach. He's our KNX Hero of the Week!
Connect with Brady at Brady King (@brady.king) | Instagram
In the photo: Brady Ahumada with lemonade and goodies from his lemonade stand. Photo credit Sara Ahumada
David Matthews of the Harbor Gateway Chamber of Commerce (HGCC) is leading efforts to help unhoused families in the Harbor Gateway Corridor find resources, so they can build better lives! His outreach teams are also assisting hundreds of kids who live in RVs.
Photo credit: David Matthews
Orange County Sheriff's Deputy Pete Chavez is using the six points of his badge to open a world of opportunity for young people! Our former KNX Hero and his team at SPFK are pointing kids towards a bright future, one community event at a time!
Six Points for Kids | Orange County California - Sheriff's Department (ocsheriff.gov)
Photo: Deputies with SPFK give high-fives during the Special Olympics. Courtesy of Orange County Sheriff's Department and Six Points For Kids
Keith and Rachel LukaSavage are making a big difference in the SoCal community, with their Savage Tacos food truck! Our KNX Heroes of the Week are helping the unhoused community with access to food, opportunity and hope!
Connect with Savage Tacos at Savage Tacos - Food Truck, Gourmet Foods, Taco Food Truck (savagetacostruck.com)
Photo: Keith LukaSavage and employee, Jemilha. Courtesy of Rachel LukaSavage.
Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Holly J. Fujie is making a difference in our SoCal community, teaching local students how to become our next great lawyers, clerks and judges! In March, she was once again a volunteer judge for the 2023 California Mock Trial Finals at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse. The winning team was from Menlo High School, and they'll be representing California on May 18th-20th at the 2023 National High School Mock Trial Competition in Little Rock, Arkansas.
https://www.nationalmocktrial.org/
Photo: Judge Holly J. Fujie and student, courtesy of the Constitutional Rights Foundation
Maggie Lin is the co-founder of Foster Nation, a non-profit based in Los Angeles, that provides resources and support, career guidance and partnership for thousands of young people who are aging out of the foster care system. Click the link above to hear Maggie share per personal story of growing up as a foster kid, and her triumphs, with KNX's Heather Jordan!
Connect with Foster Nation at https://www.fosternation.org/
Photo: Maggie Lin and her younger sister, courtesy of Maggie Lin
Join Ellie, Jay and everyone at the Gentle Barn this summer! Hug a cow or a pig... or even an emu! Their spring fundraiser is also underway to help rescued animals get medical care and supplies.
Connect with our former KNX Heroes of the Week: https://www.gentlebarn.org/
(Photo credit: Gentle Barn, Santa Clarita)
From high school dropout to college graduate with a master's in nursing, Kara James is making a mark in the SoCal community, and even in Washington D.C.! She's a leader with the Black Health Initiative, addressing health inequities in Black and Brown communities by providing high-quality health care.
Learn more at https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-los-angeles/black-health-initiative
Photo Credit: Brittany Dacoff - Blacklight Imaging.
ALMA Backyard Farms has a simple message: Reclaim lives, repurpose land and reimagine community. Co-founded in 2013 by Erika Cuellar and Richard Garcia, ALMA Backyard Farms is celebrating 10 years of providing Los Angeles County with fresh food and produce, and a place for connection!
https://www.almabackyardfarms.com/
Photo Credit - Leroy Hamilton
He's a social activist, a community organizer, a volunteer and a dad to some amazing kids! Steven Rude of Calabasas has been involved with some major Southern California projects impacting our kids and neighbors - like the creating the Garden at The Lokrantz Special Education Center - and we are proud to honor him as our KNX Hero of the Week! Connect with Steven or donate to his GoFundMe account at http://bit.ly/3Kdq1JA
Photo credit: Steven Rude, The Lokrantz Special Education Center
Dr. Laura Held has family members across several generations who have served for our country. While working at the VA Hospital in Long Beach, Laura uses that inspiration from her family to help veterans live better lives! She also inspires a staff of workers - who call her an incredible leader!
Photo courtesy of Michael Johnson
With a running squad of more than a hundred people, the non-profit Angel City Pitbulls is hoping to hit a fundraising milestone with the Los Angeles Marathon this weekend! http://www.angelcitypits.org/
Photo credit: Angel City Pitbulls and Peggy Kennedy
Adrienne has dedicated her career to making sure every person living with autism and special needs is living a full and rewarding life! She's the CEO at the Speech and Language Development Center in Buena Park, CA, a non-profit that acts as a full-time school campus and therapy facility for kids and adults!
Go to http://www.sldc.net/ to connect with Adrienne and her team of all-stars!
Above photo with the Anaheim Ducks Foundation courtesy of SLDC
Diane Upton has been a labor nurse in Orange County for years, starting at Providence St. Joseph Hospital in 1978, fresh out of high school. She followed her passion and now works with Providence Mission Hospital’s ‘Midwifes of Mission'! Through her mission work, Diane has helped expectant mothers in Kenya and Guatemala, as well!
Photos courtesy of fellow midwife, Caroline Price
Shirley Raines is the power behind Beauty 2 the Streetz! She's uplifting homeless people, college students and other communities in need with her compassion, her smile and her style! Hear her full interview with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan!
It's a special extended edition podcast with KNX News 97.1 FM!
Photo credit: Shirley Raines
https://www.beauty2thestreetz.org/
A normal day at the U.S. Marine Corps recruiting office involved the takedown of two robbery suspects at a nearby jewelry store! Meet our KNX Hero of the Week, SSgt. Josue Fragoso!
Recruiting Substation South Bay, Recruiting Station Orange County
Meet Meymuna Hussein-Cattan! She's the founder & executive director of The Tiyya Foundation, and founder and owner of the restaurant, Flavors from Afar.
https://www.tiyya.org/
https://www.flavorsfromafar.co/
(photo credit Matthew Palanca, Mythos One Media)
Rishan Patel, CEO and co-founder of Alley Oop Kids
Photo courtesy of Alley Oop Kids & Rishan Patel
sportsequity
https://www.alleyoopkids.org/
Nurse Trisha Nash with Mary Jean Hervi, at the The Village of Sherman Oaks.
Photo Courtesy of Trisha Nash.
Recreation Therapist Heather Hinton and therapy dog, Sadie.
Photo credit: Heather Hinton
Above: Los Angeles County Transit Deputies Fernando Ruiz & Kevin Rosales. They saved a man who was found unresponsive on a Metro train platform.
Photo courtesy of LASD Transit Services Bureau
Above: July KNX Hero Rebekah Robeck and a team member with the "Let's Be Kind" movement
(photo credit: Let's Be Kind)
Photo Credit: Bracken's Kitchen
Connect with the nonprofit Bracken's Kitchen at https://www.brackenskitchen.org/
(photo courtesy of Ju Young Jung and Rami Jandali)
Registered Nurse Ju Young Jung cares for the most critical patients at California Hospital Medical Center - Dignity Health in downtown Los Angeles, and she does it with a smile! "JJ" was recently recognized for her kindness and work ethic, and in a special interview with KNX, she opens up about what drives her to help others!
Austin Varco is a superstar in the making! Hear his full interview with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan, as he shares his journey growing up with autism, and how meeting with the doctor at the age of 20 changed his life!
https://www.austinvarco.com/
When the pandemic began, our "KNX Hero of the Week" Natalie Flores founded Nourish LA in her backyard, to help families who were suddenly without food due to the shutdowns. Fruit, bread, eggs and more came from urban farmers, restaurants and grocery stores. It started with a few hundred people and an assembly line in her backyard... and its now grown to multiple food distribution and compost sites, helping thousands every week!
https://www.nourish.la/
Housing, employment, companionship or medical care...
Rafael Stoneman, his dog Leo and the team at the Gold Coast Veterans Foundation are helping veterans across Southern California get the support they need! Rafael leads the mobile outreach program at GCVF and meets one-on-one with the vets. Sometimes, he drives his truck to the most critical of situations, helping people who need help immediately. He's truly a hero! And Leo, his service dog, is a hero too!
Connect with GCVF at https://gcvf.org/ or call 805-482-6550
What started as a security call quickly turned into an emergency call for LASD Transit Deputies Fernando Ruiz and Kevin Rosales. Quick thinking and on-the-job training combined with a compassion for others - helped them save a man who was suffering a medical emergency!
From skin care and hair care to manicures and makeovers... beauty experts with the Beauty Bus Foundation are helping people dealing with illness feel beautiful! Beauty Bus founder Wendy Marantz Levine tells KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan that during the pandemic, services were expanded to SoCal hospitals, to pamper the people who keep us safe!
Click the picture above to hear Wendy and new executive director Melissa Wickman share the news! You can also visit https://www.beautybus.org/ for more information!
The Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue is a nonprofit that places hundreds of dogs in need, both domestically and overseas, into forever homes. Tycanne Arceri is their international coordinator. Her job is to organize the welcome party at LAX, after dogs are saved from bad situations overseas. Tycanne also helps lead fundraiser efforts for the rescue, as well! She's a compassionate leader, and our KNX Hero of the Week!
Go to https://scgrrescue.org/ for more information!
A few months after Audra DiPadova Wilford's young son was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, she and her husband started a non-profit called MaxLove Project. It began as a way to help other families deal with their own heart-wrenching news, but its now grown into a full-support, global organization that helps families with mental wellness, evidence-based integrative health, and culinary medicine. This includes cooking classes and acupuncture services through their office in Orange, CA. Audra and her team are proving that you can thrive against cancer!
Connect with MaxLove Project here: https://www.maxloveproject.org/
Pat Prescott has been gracing the airwaves across Los Angeles for over 20 years, and during that time she has touched the SoCal community in many ways! She's involved with numerous charities and organizations, and truly lives a life of service. She's a broadcasting legend (with more than 47 years in the business), a role model, a leader, and a teacher! Meet our Hero of the Week, Pat Prescott of our Audacy sister-station, 94.7 The Wave!
Renu Singh immigrated to the U.S. from India when she was a teenager. Growing up in the San Fernando Valley with her family, she always hoped for a chance to give back to the community. Years later, as a successful real estate agent with two boys in college, she and her "Giving From the Heart Foundation" are making a big impact!
The foundation collects unwanted food, clothing, toys and more for people in need. Find out what they have coming up at https://www.givingfromtheheart.net/
One hero, saving another. Hector Gonzalez of Norwalk was in the right place at the right time, back in April. A horrific crash on the 105 Freeway in Downey had occurred right in front of him, as he was driving home. He quickly became a Good Samaritan, and saved the life of an injured CHP officer who was trapped inside a burning CHP cruiser. #KNXHero
Patty Paumier knows a thing or two, about making people smile! She's been an integral part of St Johns Regional Medical Center for more than five decades, and she's loved by many. And, during the pandemic, her presence was very important!
Amel Najjar is the founder of the Children of War Foundation, based in Los Angeles. For the past decade, she's organized multiple medical missions, connecting LA doctors with sick or injured kids from every corner of the globe.
Go to https://www.cowf.org/ for more details.
Shaving cream, shampoo, towels, blankets, sheets... those are just a few of the items donated through Project Dorm Room! Pat McCabe, Romi Lasally and their team at Ready to Succeed LA are making sure former foster youth who are starting college alone are equipped with everything they need to succeed!
Learn more at https://readytosucceedla.org/project-dorm-room/
The small shoe-share project started during the pandemic, serving over two hundred barefoot homeless people who walked through the doors at Dignity Health - California Hospital Medical Center, in downtown Los Angeles. Heroes Dr. Luke and Angie say the project has been a huge success, and its now expanding!
https://www.crossfitechopark.com/
Nikyah Pfeiffer started the non-profit From Bags 2 Belongings in 2018, so kids in the foster care system can have a brand-new piece of luggage for their things! Often times, kids use trash bags when traveling from home to home. Nikyah is working to end that practice!
https://www.frombagstobelongings.com/
Recreational therapist Heather Hinton and her therapy dog, Sadie, are making a "paws-itive" difference! Since she was a puppy, Sadie has been helping patients tackle loneliness in the hospital, and in some cases, even helping patients regain physical strength!
2022 Costa Mesa High School graduate Rebekah Robeck is making life a little better for her entire community, spreading acts of kindness! Being kind is cool! Click on the story above to hear about what she's been up to!
https://letsbekind.org/
What happens when you mix together incredible musicians, a few animated characters, a little bit of rock and roll, and a splash of kindness? You get the Jelly of the Month Club Band, and they are here to entertain! Click on the story to hear how their music is inspiring and educating kids of all ages!
One diaper at a time, four-thousand diapers a week... Irene Montantes of North Hills is changing lives! She's using her personal story and her mixed culture to help create better lives through the Los Angeles Baby Cooperative!
https://lababycooperative.org/
Dr. Reggie Jones is back where it all started! He was born at Dignity Health California Hospital Medical Center, and now he works there as a trauma surgeon. He's a KNX Hero in many ways! He saves lives, he mentors young people, he helps former gang members reintegrate into society. He's also a dad and a devoted husband, who is passionate about giving back to his community!
Los Angeles County Firefighter Jake Windell is the handler and partner of Echo the Fire Dog! Jake and Echo work with the department's mental health program, offering aid and compassion to firefighters who need a little support! Follow Echo at https://linktr.ee/Echothefiredog
The team of farmers and volunteers at the urban farm in Bell are making a healthy difference! They provide fresh produce for the Salvation Army... and create work and learning experiences as well!
Compassion can be felt at any age. 3rd-grader Sloane Hu felt the urge to help the homeless during the pandemic, and she wanted to make a difference. So, she spearheaded a couple of projects - and she's now become a leader in her community!
Compassion can be felt at any age. 3rd-grader Sloane Hu felt the urge to help the homeless during the pandemic, and she wanted to make a difference. So, she spearheaded a couple of projects - and she's now become a leader in her community!
Dr. Ruth McCarty of CHOC and Open Mind Modalities is using Traditional Chinese Medicine to help treat kids battling cancer and other diseases. She's considered a pioneer among her peers, and she's making a big impact in our community!
What makes a marriage work through decades of highs and hardships? Court and Janet Braden of Orange County share their incredible story with KNX... from fighting in the Vietnam War, to finding their faith. Their journey can inspire us all, and make us smile at the same time!
Southern California businessman Jeff Fitzhugh is making a big difference locally and around the world, with the help of some creative t-shirts!
See how you can help the people of Ukraine!
CLICK: https://linksoul.com/pages/sunflower-of-peace
Did you know that there are six points on an OCSD deputy's badge? For Deputy Pete Chavez, those points represent ways to help the young people of his community! From diaper drives to shopping with a cop - Six Points For Kids is making a difference!
Its a judgment-free zone with the Blockhead Brigade! Laura Vena and her team are creating smiles and social confidence with "blockheads" and their owners in Long Beach!
Matt Olsen is an Army veteran, he's beat cancer, and now he's helping kids and his community thrive! The team at his non-profit "Move Through Motivation" is hosting their first 5K walk/run, coming up next week, to support some amazing young people!
MTM Scholarship 5K Walk/Run Saturday, May 7, 2022 7:30 AM Eastvale Community Park
This incredible group of high school students in Orange County are promoting inclusiveness, while addressing mental health. They are led by Club President Christina Diep, and their latest outreach project is shining some love on the LGBTQ community!
Ed Massey's work can be seen all over the globe, and all across the Los Angeles metro. During the pandemic, Massey and his team at Portraits of Hope used bright colors to brighten the lives of isolated seniors. We catch up with Ed Massey in a special KNX Hero of the Week "flashback"!
Coach Brown didn't hesitate to help, when he drove up on a horrific vehicle crash in San Bernardino County. Among those he saved were two small children, who were strapped upside down in car seats.
Some seniors living in care centers in Pasadena and Los Angeles are getting a chance to join the band! Our KNX Hero of the Week is Brian Duncan of Respect and Understanding. He and his team of musicians are bringing smiles, connection and self-healing to senior care residents, through song and participation!
You may have heard that hugging a cow can make you happy. Our KNX Heroes say it's true, and worth the try! From cows to horses, to chickens and turkeys, the Gentle Barn has over a hundred rescue animals in four locations that are willing to snuggle up - helping boost your emotional well-being!
Kathy Nguyen and Dr. Jonathan Russin have developed an incredible patient-doctor bond! A year after surgery to repair a rare and potentially deadly brain aneurysm, the two started running marathons together! They've now raised over $100,000 for research at Keck Medicine of USC.
College Counselor Lynda McGee is going above and beyond at LAUSD's Downtown Magnets High School, to make sure her students have the best opportunities after graduating. She's turning dreams into reality, and she's our KNX Hero of the Week!
An extraordinary high school senior from Pacific Palisades is an athlete, a volunteer, and a teacher of financial literacy! 18 year-old Luke Shuman excels both inside and outside of the classroom, and he's our KNX Hero of the Week!
The recent passing of Bob Saget brought attention to the rare disease called scleroderma. Former KNX Hero of the Week Greg Cohen shares with KNX his battle with the disease, his recent triumphs, and the impact the comedian had on finding a cure.
Some of the toughest dogs in shelters end up needing the most care. That's where our KNX Hero of the Week, Ruth Hailu, steps in! The Cal Poly Pomona senior has been volunteering with the Pasadena Humane Society since she was a teenager, and her love for animals is unmatched!
When a choking baby went limp in the arms of San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Josh Kelly, he worked nonstop to get her breathing again. His relentless effort saved her life, and he's been named our KNX Hero of the Week!
A coach from Inglewood is inspiring kids to be great! She is our KNX Hero of the Week, and her passion to help others has taken her all the way to the Tokyo Paralympic Games!
Coach La Tijera Avery is the founder and president of the Pass It Forward Foundation. The name says it all. Coach LaTi and her team use sports, like basketball, to pass on support and inspiration, with a mission to transform the lives of underserved youth.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is a former homeless woman who is paying it forward to help other homeless people and their pets! For thirteen years now, Karen has provided just about everything a cat or dog owner living on the streets may need. "If they need animal food, blankets, medical care, or whatever for their animals, I dive in!" says Karen.
Some of the most notable stories in 2021 were led by KNX Helpful Honda Heroes of the Week! We look back at some of those heroic moments…
There were highs and lows. Celebrations and sadness. COVID, climate change and world records. There was a lot that happened in 2021.
As we look back at 2021, some of our most incredible Helpful Honda KNX Heroes of the Week were kids! From elementary school to high school, many of our heroes were young people who went above and beyond.
Former KNX Hero Nick Ferara teams up with his fellow LAPD officers at the Harbor Division to make the holidays brighter for hundreds of kids!"
Our KNX Hero is a Dignity Health Nursing Director who's guiding hundreds of young, aspiring soccer players on and off the field!
From green, to spicy red! Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is a mother from Ontario, who's selling homemade salsa to raise awareness about autism!
December is a busy month! We check-in with former KNX Heroes Darlene Hernandez Geekie of the Little Angels Project, and Clayton Frech with Angel City Sports! Both are hosting special events this month.
Connecting, during the pandemic. Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is a grad student at UCI's School of Medicine, who spent the last year and a half teaching seniors how to use Zoom!
Our KNX Helpful Honda Heroes of the Week are two local ER physicians, who are helping the world recover from the biggest disasters!
Two high school seniors at Harvard Westlake are turning plastic waste into a promise for a cleaner world, through their organization - Precious Plastic Youth LA!
This weekend, a young woman from Los Angeles will attempt to break several running records at the Los Angeles Marathon.
When the coronavirus forced schools to close, a teacher from Valencia found a creative way to keep kids learning! She is our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week, and her work is setting a new trend!
Skipping a latte, to share some love. Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is helping impoverished kids around the world live better lives, one small donation at a time!
When the COVID-19 vaccines first rolled out, some communities were overlooked. So, our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week worked day and night, to make sure distribution was fair and equitable!
Seeking an outlet for her young daughters during the pandemic, a mom from Los Angeles struggled to find a program that would provide confidence-building curriculum. So, she gathered a team and created the program herself. She's our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week.
Food insecurity continues to be a big problem for thousands of families across Los Angeles. We check back in with a former KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week, who's feeding the hungry one bagel at a time!
Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is a 2nd grader from the Inland Empire, who's showing us that age doesn't matter when it comes to helping others.
Sometimes the heart pulls us to do something out of the ordinary. For Ezra Felix, it happened to him when he was just 5 years old!
Nearly a half a million people in the United States have severe kidney failure and are on dialysis.* Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is providing better days for some of those most vulnerable patients!
A special coffee company based in Ontario is creating an incredible workplace for its extraordinary employees. It’s run by our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week!
Finding a place to work can be hard for someone with special needs. That's where Special Needz Coffee steps in!
Moving through motivation!
Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is using "CPR" to inspire those who are facing incredible challenges.
For Army veteran Matt Olson, “CPR” stands for Compassion, Positivity and Resiliency. They are his keys to inspiration.
Turning a disability into greatness. Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is inspiring people around the world at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games!
It takes a special person to be a first responder. Our KNX Helpful Honda Heroes of the Week provide peer support to some of our greatest SoCal heroes, boosting spirits during some of the toughest days!
Sometimes, our heroes need their own hero.
For the Los Angeles County Fire Department, it’s a blonde-haired, brown-eyed girl with a sweet smile and a sparkling personality. She also has four legs. Her name is Echo the Fire Dog.
Double the talent, double the impact! Our KNX Helpful Honda Heroes of the Week are twin teenagers, who are using their music to help others!
From the elite to the casual athlete, injuries can change our lives.
As we have seen at the Olympics, an injury can be devastating. Whether physical or mental, your health is vital. Doctors who keep you healthy are just as important! Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is one of those amazing doctors!
A local running phenom from Diamond Bar is expanding her efforts to help those in need. We check-in with a former KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week, who's using the Olympic Games as her motivation!
A CrossFit coach and an emergency room physician have teamed up to help the homeless. They are putting shoes on the sick in Skid Row, and they are our KNX Helpful Honda Heroes of the Week!
Yemen is home to the world's largest humanitarian crisis, according to UNICEF, with about 21 million people in need of food, medical and economic assistance. Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is a teenager from Porter Ranch, who's helping the Yemeni people.
Running, reading, and re-energizing the community! Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week is helping Los Angeles get back-in-step, after a year of shutdowns due to the pandemic.
A Fourth of July throwback!
A war veteran is now managing one of the busiest ICU's in Southern California. He's our KNX Hero of the Week, and he's not only saving lives, he's helping his fellow nurses and doctors get through some of the toughest moments of their careers.
A teenager in Los Angeles was forced to become the head of his household after his parents got sick with COVID-19. Despite the challenges, the high school football player continued his studies and graduated with high marks, and he's our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week!
Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week has spent his entire career healing the sick, in Simi Valley. He's also teaching the next generation of doctors how to care for those who need a little extra help!
Law enforcement officers are trained to be ready for anything. That training recently saved a life, when our KNX Helpful Honda Heroes of the Week faced an unexpected situation!
When the COVID-19 vaccines first became available in Southern California, it was a little hard for some people to get an appointment. So, our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week stepped in!
A family man in Orange County is making a big difference in the Muslim community with his leadership and continuous outreach. He's our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week!
Rescuing man's best friend. Our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week has helped hundreds of at-risk dogs find their forever home! Its more than passion project for restaurant owner Geraldine Gilliland. It's a heartfelt commitment.
A special street team has been providing medical care to homeless people across Los Angeles County.
The program is led by our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week, and in last few months, their work has helped slow the spread of COVID-19.
An urban farm in the heart of LA has been providing much-needed food for local residents during the pandemic. It's managed by our KNX Helpful Honda Heroes of the Week, who are dedicating hours each day, to keep the produce growing!
Hundreds of thousands of students in Southern California spent last summer under tight health restrictions, due to COVID. But things are a different now. We check-in with a former KNX "Helpful Honda" Hero of the Week, who's preparing kids in Santa Ana for a summer of activity!
Food insecurity continues to be a big problem for hundreds of thousands of families in Los Angeles. So, our KNX Helpful Honda Hero of the Week has come up with a simple, yet effective way, to help get food on the table!
Teacher. Park Ranger. Volunteer. Serving others is a way of life, for our KNX "Helpful Honda" Hero of the Week!
Photo credit: Veterans Legal Institute (VLI)
Our KNX Hero of the Week is a young climate activist who is passionate about saving the environment. And, he hasn't let wind, rain or cold temperatures stop him from cleaning-up a local hiking hotspot!
The pandemic forced some outreach programs in Los Angeles to pull back services to the homeless this past year, or stop them completely. But, our KNX Hero of the Week continued to feed people living on the street, despite the COVID-19 risk.
Older shelter dogs are often the hardest to get adopted. So, our KNX Hero of the Week in Sylmar is taking many of them home, giving them the best "final days" of their lives!
Despite facing a number of challenges during the pandemic, a Southern California surgeon hit a significant career milestone in the surgery room. He's our KNX Hero of the Week, and he's saving lives, one transplant at a time.
Our KNX Hero of the Week has spent her career helping others. She's now encouraging young women in Southern California to follow their dreams!
A group of elementary students in Orange County are learning at a young age - the power of giving. They are our KNX Heroes of the Week, and their efforts are creating smiles for hundreds of workers on the frontlines!
An hour-long special, recognizing and celebrating our inspiring KNX Heroes of 2020! Hosted by Heather Jordan, host and producer of the KNX "Hero of the Week" Brought to you by California Resources Corporation
A war veteran is now managing one of the busiest ICU's in Southern California. He's our KNX Hero of the Week, and he's not only saving lives, he's helping his fellow nurses and doctors get through some of the toughest moments of their careers.
A teenager from Chatsworth is spending her down-time during the pandemic gathering shoes for the homeless. She's our KNX Hero of the Week, and she's helping others put their best foot forward!
Over the last year, the pandemic has blanketed the Southern California community with grief. Families have lost loved ones. People have lost jobs. Our KNX Hero of the Week is helping people who are grieving, pull through.
A local pharmacist has been working days on end, to make sure people in Southern California get the COVID-19 vaccinations they need. He's our KNX Hero of the Week, and his dedication is saving lives!
A tattered and abandoned cemetery in Compton is being restored to its original beauty, thanks to our KNX Hero of the Week, who is changing things one section at a time.
A renowned artist based in Southern California is using color to brighten the lives of our at-risk citizens during the pandemic. He's our KNX Hero of the Week and he's creating smiles, one brush stroke at a time!
Our KNX Hero of the Week from Glassell Park turned her unexpected situation into a positive, using her time to kick-off a new business and help others along the way.
This past year, we have seen some of Southern California's "best" step-up. Some put their life on the line to help others, including one hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.
2020 was a year filled with challenges, heartbreak, and frustration. But, it was also a year filled with inspiration and hope, thanks to dozens of amazing young people in Southern California.
This past year has been tough for a lot of people. And, the pandemic has forced some of Southern California's best to step-up.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is one of those people, who's gone above and beyond to help those most in need.
It’s been a busy holiday season for past KNX Hero of the Week, Richard Ayoub!
He and Project Angel Food continue to feed Southern California’s most vulnerable, despite the pandemic.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is helping pediatric patients heal through her music, and she's not letting Covid-19 hold her back.
COVID-19 has spread into every community in Southern California, no matter the language, or income level. So, our KNX Hero of the Week has made it her mission to keep everyone in that community safe.
The pandemic forced a lot of programs for young people in Southern California to cancel, or close, for the summer.
So, our KNX Hero of the Week decided to create one, instead.
In early 2020, America watched as word traveled of a novel virus that was quickly moving from country to country. Our KNX Hero of the Week was one of the first hospital administrators in the nation to put protocols in place, to keep people safe from the incoming coronavirus.
As Veteran's Day approaches, we are honoring a mother from Orange County who has spent her career offering hope, stability and legal aid to thousands of veterans.
It was as an unusual and quiet summer for teenagers all over southern California, due to coronavirus shutdowns. Our KNX Hero of the Week decided to use his free time, helping other young people expand their creative minds.
This week, KNX 1070 News Radio celebrates the life and legacy of firefighting pilot Mike Fournier, who died while battling the Hills Fire in Central California.
Our KNX Hero of the Week helped his restaurant in Pasadena stay busy, by offering free meals to those in need.
The death of a family member to COVID-19 has prompted our KNX Hero of the Week to start a new organization that helps others.
Two young men from LA County have been using their free time during the pandemic brightening the spirits of cancer patients. They've also inspired staff members at a local hospital, and they are our KNX Heroes of the Week!
The annual Justice Jog in Southern California had to take a sharp turn this year, due to COVID-19. Our KNX Hero of the Week explains how the fundraising project adjusted, so it could keep helping kids in the welfare system.
Most of us have heard the phrase "it takes a village" to things done. And, when it comes to running a sterile healthcare facility during COVID-19, this is especially true.
This week, we are honoring those behind the scenes - the housekeepers, janitors and workers in environmental services - as our KNX Heroes of the Week!
It's not a glamorous job.
"We have to wear gowns and gloves. Sometimes we use helmets," says Marisol Zuniga, a housekeeper who works at a number of healthcare facilities in Orange County.
"I compare it most to that scene in "E.T." where the government shows up and everybody is in their jumpsuit," says Pamela Richardson, who also works as a housekeeper, at Kaiser Permanente in Irvine. "It kind of felt like a sci-fi movie at first!"
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Marisol and Pamela dress like that every day for work, as do the thousands of other EVS/environmental services employees in Southern California. They are the people who clean up emergency rooms, operating rooms, and patient units. It’s a high risk job, and in the season of COVID-19, the risk is heightened even more. But, it's necessary to keep people safe.
"For me, I really enjoy my job, and I like to help others" says Marisol, "I really do."
Marisol and Pamela say COVID-19 restrictions have isolated so many patients that often times, the housekeepers become family members.
"When I walk up to their door, and I see them," says Pamela, "sometimes I see a little smile on their face. And, they're just very grateful for interaction, and to have conversations with people."
"We have to take care of them, as [if they were] our family," says Marisol.
The job is tough, but it's crucial for doctors, surgeons and nurses who need sterile rooms to provide care.
"We try our best to disinfect every single part of the room: the OR's, the ER, everywhere," explains Marisol.
Not often in spotlight, but heroes for so many! We are honoring Marisol Zuniga, Pamela Richardson and all of the healthcare housekeepers, janitors, and environmental service workers who are keeping us safe!
They are our KNX Heroes of Week!
"That's really nice for you to be doing this," expresses Pamela. "We definitely work hard and it's nice to be acknowledged!"
"Sometimes, we feel like we are not appreciated enough," remarks Marisol, "and this really touches me."
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans and all of our heroes!
If you know someone who is inspirational, motivational, life-changing or life-saving, nominate them as a future KNX Hero at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
You can also send an email directly to the host of KNX Hero of the Week - Heather Jordan - at heroes@KNX1070.com
A teenager from Fullerton has spent her summer of COVID-19 teaching dance to young people with disabilities. She used technology to create hundreds of smiles, and she's our KNX Hero of the Week!
Elliana Kim has been dancing since she was 3 years old. Now, as a 17-year-old senior at Sunny Hills High School, she's dancing her way into the hearts of Southern Californians. "I wanted to do something for the kids, because I know it’s hard being stuck at home for such a long time," says Elliana. "So, I thought of creating these dance classes."
Elliana has been a long-time volunteer at ReImagine in Orange County. It’s an organization that provides therapy to children with disabilities. Elliana helps with their dance program. But when the pandemic hit, the program had to temporarily stop.
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So, Elliana went online and created the Always Dancing Project. It's a program that provides free, daily dance classes through Zoom. "I have class for ages 0-3, 4-7 and 8-12," explains Elliana.
Online dance instruction has become very popular over the last few months, but classes can be costly, and Elliana says they often do not cater to children with special needs.
Angie Medina is with ReImagine OC and she says Elliana has a special spirit, and she's unlike other teens her age. "Most kids would rather be at the beach, or dancing with their friends," says Angie, "but [Elliana] has been dedicated to these children. Even during the holidays and her days off, she's always trying to help some way, or another."
"This dance project is really, really amazing," says Angie, "targeting children with special needs. Especially when there's limited resources."
Elliana says she does it for the joy that dancing brings. "When I see their smiles while I'm teaching them, it just makes me so happy!"
Seventeen-year-old Elliana Kim is our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you'd like to know more about Elliana's "Always Dancing Project" go to https://sites.google.com/view/alwaysdancingproject/home
You can also visit ReImagine OC at https://reimagineoc.org/
To nominate a KNX Hero of the Week, send an email to heroes@KNX1070.com, or fill out a nomination form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
Domestic violence has risen across Southern California during the pandemic, and it’s a trend our KNX Hero of the Week is trying to change.
Many times, abuse is reported or discovered by colleagues at work or at school.
But things are different right now.
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"For a lot of people, if you are in a domestic violence situation, these are your escapes," explains Laverne Delgado, the Executive Director of Freedom and Fashion.
"Now that those things are shut down, you pack that on to natural stresses of life with the pandemic. People are agitated and aggravated. And, for those who struggle with anger issues and abusive behavior, the victims are in the line of fire."
Freedom and Fashion a non-profit based in Pasadena, that helps provide freedom for those escaping an abusive situation. It also provides clothes and beauty care to survivors taking an independent step.
"We started Freedom and Fashion over a decade ago as an awareness platform," says Laverne. "Eventually, we developed our programming to have a direct impact component [so we can] directly serve survivors of sex-trafficking and domestic violence. And, we teach them the art of fashion and beauty, while helping them evolve mentally and emotionally, and enable true transformation in their lives."
Ryan Johnson works with Freedom and Fashion, and she says Laverne uses her own experience - rising out of an abusive relationship - to inspire everyone around her. "She always creates a safe space, for not only the survivors, but with the team of volunteers that she works with," say Ryan. She adds that the team is given support when contributing ideas for Fashion and Freedom that can make a greater impact.
For Laverne, Freedom and Fashion is passion project to help those in need. And, she says the victims inspire her. "It's an honor to have gotten to heal together," says Laverne, "because we all can relate to pain."
Laverne Delgado is this week's KNX Hero of the Week!
"I'm very humbled to the position, and the privilege to be able to do what I do," says Laverne.
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes.
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. For donation information or to help an abuse victim - contact Freedom and Fashion at
https://freedomandfashion.org
You can also nominate your own KNX Hero at
https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A veterinary program in Agoura Hills is providing much-needed care during the pandemic.
It's led by our KNX Hero of the Week, who's healing hearts one animal at a time.
The Little Angels Project is a nonprofit animal welfare organization founded by veterinarian technician Darlene Hernandez-Geekie. "I own a veterinary hospital, Veterinary Angels Medical Center. And, through the years of working in veterinary medicine, I've done a lot of rescue work," says Darlene. "I really felt like there was a great need, but it was difficult to take on that need. So, I just decided that community problems need to be solved by the community, and it was time to have a non-profit."
"[This way] we can always say yes, and not have to say no."
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Darlene says there's been a great need for disaster relief for animals of all sizes, due to the number of recent wildfires. But the pandemic has brought a new stress when it comes to care.
"Millions of people have lost their jobs. And, because of that, they can't afford their veterinary care," explains Darlene. "It causes them to relinquish animals, and it creates a situation where they have to make a decision for their pet, that isn't very good for that animal."
"So, we come in and we help establish pet care," says Darlene.
Team members take in new cases nearly every day. Darlene says they offer things like shelter, surgery, and special medicine. Some animals just need affection.
And, it’s not isolated to just dogs and cats. The Little Angels Project has cared for rabbits, pigs, and turtles. Even alpaca.
No animal is turned away.
"We help people with all animals! We always say fur, feathers, scales - we see them all!" says Darlene. "All animals matter to us."
It’s been a tough year for a lot of folks in Southern California. Pets are often part of the family, and Darlene says helping those is need is something she's been pulled to do.
"I'm just trying to do my part, and I just love what I do!"
Founder of Little Angels Project in Agoura Hills, Darlene Hernandez-Geekie is our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes.
Get more information about The Little Angels Project at https://littleangelsproject.org/
You can also nominate your own KNX Hero of the Week at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A few months ago, a young man from Orange County decided to give back and say thank you to nurses and doctors working the frontlines.
He's our KNX Hero of the Week, and his fundraising efforts have produced dozens of smiles at two major hospitals.
"I saw how hard my mom, who's a doctor, was working to fight COVID19 and keep people safe," says 15-year-old Nikiel Douglas. "So, I just thought to myself 'what can I do to help'? And, that's where the idea to start a GoFundMe came from."
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In just a short time, Nikiel raised over $2000.
He took money to Feed the Frontlines OC. It's an organization that uses food trucks to deliver free meals to healthcare staff all over Southern California. Nikiel tagged-along during one of the deliveries, and saw first-hand how a small gesture of kindness can provide comfort to many.
"We went to Kaiser-Irvine, and we were able to deliver food there," says the aspiring businessman. "They were very grateful and appreciative."
Former KNX Hero of the Week Steve Carlson is the CEO of Feed the Frontlines OC. He was with Nikiel during the delivery.
"Nikiel's donation was critical, because it allowed us to provide meals to two different hospitals. We were able to feed a lot of different units." Steve says Nikiel's compassion was felt by everyone. "It's awesome to see young kids wanting to step-up during the pandemic, and do something for their community."
Santa Margarita Catholic High School sophomore Nikiel Douglas is this week's KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you would like to nominate a KNX Hero, send an email to heroes@KNX1070.com
You can also fill out a nomination form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
For more information or to donate to Feed The Frontlines OC, click https://www.feedthefrontlinesoc.com/
A teenager from Los Angeles is helping students stay on track during the COVID-19 pandemic, one tutoring class at a time.
She turned a summer filled with disappointment into a summer full of promise, and she's our KNX Hero of the Week.
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A few months ago, Sophia Scott noticed that some of her classmates were having a tough time with distance-learning.
"I realized that a lot of students were falling behind... it was probably a very difficult transition, and that could be exacerbated over the summer with summer schools being canceled," says Sophia. "So, I wanted to create a program to help get people back on track, and give people extra support if they needed it."
So, Sophia developed an online tutoring program called "Quaranteens." It's for teens who need a little help with their studies during the pandemic. It involves dozens of tutors who have hosted hundreds of sessions with students across Los Angeles and the United States.
"We have students in Columbus, Ohio... Cleveland, Washington D.C., Kansas," lists the rising senior at Marymount High School.
Tutors cover a wide range of courses, and everything is free. "Our main focus is just helping anyone who needs it. We don't want cost to be a limiting factor."
Sophia is just 16 years-old, but she already has an awareness about the world that is wise beyond her years.
"I feel like, just generally caring about global issues and educational disparities... for girls and women around the world," says Sophia, who aspires to become a physician one day. "I took a national perspective on [this].... to see what kind of educational disparities are being developed right now, out of this coronavirus crisis."
Sophia's mother says it's been a joy watching her build the non-profit.
"She designed a website, and found tutors," says Karen Johnson, who calls her daughter "amazing."
"She had a lot of plans for this summer, that got canceled. But, instead of doing nothing, she came up with this project on her own, and just ran with it!"
Creator of the Quaranteen's tutoring program, 16 year-old Sophia Scott of Los Angeles is our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes brought to you each week by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
For more information about "Quaranteens" tutoring, go to
https://sophiacscott.wixsite.com/quaranteens-tutoring
Don't forget, you can also nominate your own KNX Hero of the Week at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A team of all-stars has spent their off-season helping out Southern Californians during the pandemic.
They are the KNX Heroes of the Week, and they are standing strong to keep people safe and supported.
They are California Strong.
Founded by Mike Attanasio, Major League Baseball players Ryan Braun, Mike Moustakas, Christian Yelich, and NFL Quarterback Jared Goff, the men banded together a few years ago when destructive wildfires tore through the Los Angeles area.
"All of us have homes in Southern California, in the area [where] the Woolsey Fire was burning through," says Attanasio. "We were very fortunate to have our homes spared."
Attanasio works in the front office for the Milwaukee Brewers. After the fires, he and the four athletes strategized on how to help the SoCal community during major events and disasters. California Strong quickly developed, and over the last year and a half they have raised millions of dollars in aid.
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"We've taken this to, hopefully, a symbol of hope and strength in times when our state needs it most," explains Attanasio. "We've just continued to grow, and raise money. And [we've] tried to have as widespread an impact as possible."
When the pandemic hit, California Strong started providing supplies, PPE and funding for local hospitals and support organizations. "The pandemic really impacted everyone's lives here in California," says Attanasio.
"So, we've partnered with UCSF Health, Cedars Sinai and UCLA Health, and we've donated around $90,000 to their COVID relief funds. We've provided about 100,000 meals to Californians through our partnership with Feeding America. We've [also] donated 15,000 masks to the LAPD, and CalVet, in partnership with Bella+Canvas.
"And, we've donated and distributed more than $120,000 directly to individuals and families impacted by the pandemic, in partnership with the Ventura County Community Foundation," says Attanasio. "So, we've really tried to hit as many areas as possible, and to individuals in need."
Karen Grimley is the Chief Nursing Executive for UCLA Health. She says the supplies not only helped save lives, but the meals provided to doctors and staff have brought a sense of strength and comfort during what has been a very challenging time.
"The efforts they made, to do this for us - they went much further than we would have ever thought!" says Grimley. "The fact that they thought of us, the fact that their timing was so good, it was wonderful! It was very well received, and very well appreciated. It made a difference."
Mike Attanasio and the founders of California Strong are our KNX Heroes of the Week!
"We're just so grateful to be able to give back," says the Director of Business Strategy for the Milwaukee Brewers, "and [we] are really humbled by the support we have received during this time."
The founders of California Strong are raising money with special California Strong face masks, with 100% of the proceeds supporting COVID-19 relief efforts. For more information or to purchase a mask, go to https://www.californiastrong.org
Hear more of my interview with Mike Attanasio by clicking the KNX podcast link on this page.
KNX Heroes is brought to you each week by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
Go to https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate to submit your KNX Hero of the Week!
Every day, members of our local law enforcement put themselves in the face of danger. Our KNX Hero of the Week did just that, to help save family members from a burning home.
Palos Verdes Estates Police Corporal Aaron Belda was a first responder after a home became surrounded with smoke.
"When we got there, the homeowner was standing outside of his open garage door, and he had a water hose. He looked like he was trying to extinguish whatever was causing this black smoke to come out of his garage," says Corporal Belda.
A fire escalated within seconds.
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"The entire front of the house and the garage was engulfed in flames," explains Belda,"extending well above the top of the roof."
Firefighters were on their way. As the flames were building, Belda says the man suddenly ran back inside the home.
"So, I ran in after him!" says Belda. "I wasn't even thinking about it. It just seemed like it was the only thing to do. There was a potential for a loss for life, and I'm the first responder that's there... so, I ran in after him."
The homeowner grabbed a couple pets, and both men then ran outside. But the homeowner thought that his wife was still inside, so he turned back. But Belda stopped him.
Instead, Belda went to search for her, despite not having any protective gear. "I went back into the house, and started searching room to room."
"Man, I gotta tell you. That smoke was filling up the interior of the house so bad, to where I couldn't keep my eyes open. I was kind of just feeling around, for where I was going," explains Belda.
"I have a new found level of respect for what the men and women in the fire department go through on a daily basis, dealing with this smoke. I was completely incapacitated."
By this time, officers had located the woman out on the street. So, Belda fought his way out of the house, crawling through the back door of the home, covered in smoke and soot.
And, he was choking. "Uncontrollable coughing. I started throwing up, I started vomiting."
Belda was treated at a local hospital, and was later released.
Palos Verdes Estates Police Sergeant Steve Barber has worked with Corporal Belda for years. He says Belda is not afraid of danger, when it comes to saving a life.
"Aaron really understands our motto, which is 'commitment to community.' And, he's just a great guy!" boasts Sgt. Barber.
Palos Verdes Estates Corporal Aaron Belda is our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you have someone you'd like to nominate as a KNX hero, fill out the form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A teenager from Los Angeles County is helping her neighborhood cope during the pandemic, by organizing weekly string quartet concerts in her front yard.
She's also supporting a local grief center at the same time, and she's our KNX Hero of the Week.
Sasha Schoettler says the idea for "Fiddler on the Lawn" came to mind after watching her mom play the violin.
"My mom is a professional violinist. She was with one of her friends playing some duets in our front yard. And there were tons of people walking past, and everyone really loved it!" says the Palisades High School student. "I thought this could be an amazing way to fundraise for a cause I am really passionate about, and I immediately thought about Our House, because they helped me when I lost my dad in 2010."
Our House is a grief support center, a place that is close to the 16-year-old.
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"I saw that they were doing special things for people who lost their loved ones to Covid19. And [many] couldn't grieve with their normal support system, because of the quarantine," explains Sasha.
"I decided I wanted to set up more official concerts to raise money for Our House. I sent out a newsletter, and we had over fifty people come to our first concert. We raised over $500!"
"It was really, really inspiring," says Sasha.
Sylvia Moskovitz is the Chief Development Officer with Our House, and she says Sasha is an amazing young lady who truly has a heart for others.
"She still remembers the importance of grief support, and she wants to do this to help other kids. It gave me faith that our younger generation really 'gets it'!'"
So far, Sasha has organized about eight "Fiddler on the Lawn" concerts, raising nearly $3000.
Sasha says it not only gives her joy knowing that she's helping others cope during the pandemic, she's happy to create an outlet for her mom and fellow musicians to pay their music. Most studios and concerts halls are closed right now, due to COVID19.
"This is basically the only chance they get to perform."
Making an impact during the pandemic, 16 year-old Sasha Schoettler is our KNX Hero of the Week!
"It's been really amazing and overwhelming, the support that we've gotten," says the teenager.
KNX Heroes presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
For information with Our House grief support center, go to https://www.ourhouse-grief.org/
If you have someone you'd like to nominate as a KNX Hero of the Week, click https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
In short, 2020 has been history-making.
COVID-19. Stay-at-home orders. Racial injustice. Protesting.
Southern California has witnessed change first-hand over the last few months. And, it hasn't been easy. When businesses in the Fairfax District suffered damage from looters a few weeks ago, former KNX Hero of the Week Anthony McClaren mobilized a group to help clean up some of the damage. For Anthony, it was a way to spread some hope.
"I felt pain, seeing [the] looting," says Anthony. "I think the city is hurting, and this is just a way to make the city feel better."
Fellow 2019 Hero Greg Cohen also joined the effort, equipped with trash bags, gloves and tools.
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"We love Los Angeles, and want to help clean it up," says Greg.
While the cleanup was underway, several trucks filled with California National Guard members pulled into the area around The Grove, to set up perimeter protection. Greg says it was nice to have a conversation with some of the members.
"They've been supportive, and actually thanked us for what we were doing!"
Greg's wife, Arielle says it's important to be a part of the healing process.
"If that means just talking to members of the community, whatever it looks like,” says Arielle, “I just want to be a part of that collective healing."
Former KNX Heroes of the Week continuing to make a difference in our community.
KNX Heroes is brought to you each week by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes.
If you know someone who is inspirational, motivational, life-changing or life-saving... let us know! Nominate a hero by clicking https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
You can also send an email to KNX Hero of the Week Host and Producer Heather Jordan, at Heroes@KNX1070.com
For more than three decades, Project Angel Food has provided meals to thousands of SoCal residents who have strict dietary needs.
The program is now run by our KNX Hero of the Week, who's been determined to keep the deliveries going, despite COVID-19.
"Project Angel Food has continued, uninterrupted, during this entire pandemic. So, we are going on three months, non-stop," says Richard Ayoub, Executive Director of Project Angel Food in Los Angeles.
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When I first spoke with Richard in early March, Project Angel Food was suddenly facing a volunteer shortage, due to stay at home orders. But Richard says the unimaginable happened - so many people wanted to help that they had to turn volunteers away!
Productivity has not wavered. "It's pretty incredible that we have such a committed team of drivers and chefs. And everyone else, who just shows up, because they know the clients depend on us," says Richard. "And we have just broken big records! The month of May, we have done the most amount of meals we have ever done in one month. It was over 81,000 meals!"
Project Angel Food is different than normal food services. Each client has a dietary need or restriction, so each meal has to be specifically catered.
Anne-Marie Williams has worked with Richard over the past few years, and she tells me that Richard exudes compassion, and people around him are easily motivated.
"He talks to people. He makes eye contact. He listens, and he truly cares," says Anne-Marie.
This weekend, Project Angel Food is hosting a crucial fundraiser. It's the only fundraiser for the entire year, because the pandemic has forced every other one to be canceled.
Richard says no matter what, his fight to feed those in critical need will carry on. "My goal has always been to feed more people. And, the fact that we got to feed four-hundred more people in the month of May, during a very scary time, makes me very, very proud! I am proud of all of the heroes at Project Angel Food!"
Richard Ayoub is the biggest hero of them all, and that's why he is our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
To find out more about Richard and Project Angel Food, go to https://www.angelfood.org/
You can also nominate a KNX Hero of the Week at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A talented teenager from Diamond Bar is running a 5K every day for month, to raise money for a local food bank.
She's our KNX Hero of the Week, and she's encouraging others to race along with her.
Running has become a way of life for 14 year-old L'Mio Edwards. "Yeah, I've been running since third grade!"
L'Mio is currently ranked 5th in the nation for teens her age in the 4-K, according to https://www.athletic.net/.
"It's pretty cool! It got really competitive around sixth grade, it just kind of kicked in."
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(Photos courtesy of Smotherman Images)
L'Mio and her family have spent the last few months, like most us, adjusting to stay-at-home orders. But training has not stopped. About a month ago, L'Mio and her dad, Deon, came up with a idea to raise money for a local food bank called New Earth. It provides meals for those in need during the pandemic.
"We decided to think of a creative way to that would attract people's attention... to get donations," explains L'Mio. "And we made a deal, too, that every 5K I do, he would have to walk a 1K."
So, every evening for thirty days, L'Mio is running 5 kilometers through her neighborhood. Her dad is there every single stride, driving along next to her.
But it hasn't been easy.
Deon explains that the cops have showed up several times, because of concerned neighbors and passers-by.
"She is of mixed ethnicity. She's half Japanese and half Black," says Deon. "Sometimes people jog now-a-days days, and they wind-up dead or missing. So, I have multiple reasons for making sure that people understand that I'm her dad. This is my child, and I'll drive next to her to make sure she's okay."
Deon says he's now developed a special relationship with local law enforcement, who support what the two are doing.
As L'Mio wraps up her "5KaDay4Food" 30-day challenge, she wants to inspire others to run along with her.
"You're feeding a whole other family!" she exclaims. "It's a pretty cool experience. Just doing something small, helps somebody else out there that you don't even know!"
So far, L'Mio Edwards has raised over $5,000, and that is why she's our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you'd like to know more about L'Mio and her "5KaDay4Food" challenge, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/5kaday4food
You can also nominate your own hero at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A century-old theatre company in Laguna Beach is using its resources to open dialogue with young people, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and recent protesting over racial injustice.
The program is run by our KNX Hero of the Week, who's inspiring future leaders to "tell their truth," one workshop at a time.
"It's so important, because they are the people who are going to inherit what comes next," says Dylan Russell, Director of Education at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach.
"You know, we've seen this with Greta Thunberg, we've seen this with other youth leaders who have stepped-up after the shootings in Florida," says Dylan.
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"They are the voice of where we need to go. To have an opportunity to work with young people... especially through the arts, is more important than it has ever, ever been!"
Dylan says there are two thoughts of mind when it comes to her students, and how they are handling the current events of home schooling, social distancing, and racial injustice.
"There are some students who are so enmeshed in all of it, they just want the opportunity to escape, and be creative," explains Dylan. "And then there are students who really have that desire to bring [forward] their passions for community. And I think that the arts allow us to both be a place where we can have creativity as a respite, and as an activism."
The Laguna Playhouse is celebrating its 100th season this summer, with the unexpected transition to online programming. Executive Director Ellen Richard says Dylan has made the adjustment with ease, creating a sense of normalcy for the kids. "I think having this safe place, particularly right now, is really important and impactful."
For Dylan, it's the emotional connection that drives her. In fact, she says "art saved her."
"I want every person, particularly every young person, to have the opportunity to share their story. And, have it be truly heard by the community at large," says Dylan.
"It's so important in this world to feel that your story's told. And, I think that's kind of at the heart of what we are looking at today. The desire to have your story be recognized, in a way that it hasn't before."
Dylan Russell, Director of Education with the Laguna Playhouse, is our KNX Hero of the week!
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans and all of our heroes.
If you have someone in mind, who could be a KNX Hero of the Week, fill out a nomination form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
Feeding the front lines during the pandemic.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is bringing joy and encouragement to nurses and doctors all over Southern California, one fresh meal at a time.
An opportunity arose to help keep food trucks in business, while providing comfort to healthcare workers. So, Steve Carlson called up some of his friends.
"There was an opportunity where the community can contribute, and I can bring together trucks," explains Steve,"[We] pay them to deliver the meals free to the hospital workers, and the hospital workers on the frontlines have free, hot meals made fresh on site. It just became a ‘win-win’ situation for everybody!"
Steve is the CEO and founder of Food Smackdown, an organization that focuses on large event catering. It often involves local food trucks.
When the pandemic hit Southern California, Steve combined his resources and developed Feed the Frontlines OC. Over the past two months, the program has raised nearly $9000, feeding more than 450 healthcare workers on roughly a dozen visits around Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
"It just lifts their spirits up," says Steve. "Hearing that over and over again, is just absolutely amazing."
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One of the visits was to St. Joe's in Orange. Amy Daugherty is the hospital's Chief Philanthropy Officer.
"People don't realize that the caregivers aren't just facing the COVID-19 battle, they are facing the lack of visitors," explains Daugherty. "They are being taxed to help do things that family members would do."
She says Steve is feeding the soul of so many people. "He's keeping people in business, he's creating relationships within these communities. He's just been a hero for our hospital."
Spreading hope one tasty bite at a time, while helping food trucks stay in business. Steve Carlson is our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
Get more information on Feeding the Frontlines OC at https://www.feedthefrontlinesoc.com/
You can also follow Food Smackdown and Feeding the Frontlines OC on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
If you have someone you’d like to nominate as a future KNX Hero of the Week, fill out a nomination form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
With a trip to Disneyland out of the picture due to the pandemic, a 10 year-old from Glendale decided to use her hard-earned money for the trip to feed doctors and nurses, instead.
She's our KNX Hero of the Week.
Alique Krikorian says she was first inspired to help after watching a Hollywood comedian.
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"One evening I was watching TV with my family. I saw that Kevin Hart was donating hamburgers to a local hospital," explains the pre-teen. "So, I told my dad... I can do that as well."
For months, Alique had been recycling items to raise money to take her friends on a trip to Disneyland for her birthday. But those plans were cut short by COVID-19. So, Alique took the money, about $400, to her dad. Together they decided to feed workers at Adventist Health Glendale.
"I thought they do the most work, and they answer the phones. They save people's lives, and they try to care about everybody fairly and equally," says the 10 year-old. "So, I thought I should donate to them."
Alique picked her favorite burger place, Mix and Match Burgers in Glendale, to purchase the meals.
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Alique's father, Shant, says on her birthday, he and the owner of Mix and Match Burgers delivered one-hundred cheese and veggie burgers, chips and drinks to the hard-working nurses and doctors.
Shant says he couldn't be more proud of his daughter. "Her personality is always 'put others first' and 'try to help out.' And, be a role model to her friends and sister. I am very humbled, and grateful of her nice gesture to do such a thing."
Speaking of her sister, the 10 year-old requested one last thing before we ended the interview.
"Can I just give a shout-out?" asks Alique.
"Yeah, of course," I respond.
"To my sister, happy 13th birthday! I love you! I hope thirteen wishes treat you well!" exclaims Alique.
Always thinking of others.
We are honoring Alique Krikorian as our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
To nominate your own KNX hero, send an email to heroes@KNX1070.com. You can also fill out a nomination form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A group of volunteers is "masking" Orange County and beyond.
They are our KNX Heroes of Week, who are using their skills, talent and experience to help frontline and essential workers stay safe during the pandemic.
Sewing is common practice for Stephanie Hoang. When she was young, her family moved from Vietnam to the United States. Her mom was seamstress, and as a kid Stephanie would help sew garments alongside her.
"That's how I, as a child... learned how to sew," says the Fountain Valley resident. "To help my mom make a living to survive, when we first came to America."
Fast forward to 2020. Stephanie is now a financial services agent in Orange County. When COVID-19 hit Southern California, Stephanie put her job on hold so she could help fellow nurses and other essential workers by sewing face masks.
"I had never made a mask in my entire life!" exclaims Stephanie. "So, I looked at a design that my mom had made. I tweaked it a little, and made my own design."
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Stephanie also made a Facebook post about it, to her three hundred or so friends. Family member Anh Nguyen and friend Leo Truong quickly joined her mission, and the "Maskateers" were formed.
Word spread like wildfire, and soon the group had inspired other "Masketeers" to join in.
In just two months, the group has sewn and distributed more than 30,000 face masks across Southern California around the nation.
"New York, New Jersey, Florida, Texas." Stephanie says it just made sense to help out.
"We want to do something to help the community," explains Stephanie. "We are all in this together. The quicker everybody gets healthy, its helping all of us, as a whole."
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UCI Nurse Jane Wainaina was surprised with a box full of masks for her and her fellow coworkers. She calls Stephanie and her team an inspiration.
"Good hearts. You can't find good people like them, nowhere," says Jane.
Using their skills, talent and experience to help frontline and essential workers stay safe during the pandemic. We are honoring Orange County "Maskateers" Stephanie Hoang, Anh Nguyen and Leo Truong as our KNX Heroes of the Week!
KNX Heroes presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
To connect with Stephanie Hoang and to get more information about the OC "Maskateers" click https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.hoang.50
You can also nominate your own hero at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
Stepping up during the pandemic.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is keeping students and staff at a rural Southern California school district fed, supplied, and motivated.
It's not easy to travel back and forth to Rio Mesa High School in Oxnard. The campus sits on a roadway outside of town, surrounded by fields. For students who need school supplies or food during the pandemic, walking there is nearly impossible.
"We serve, for example, a community called Nyeland Acres," says Rio Mesa Principal Mark C. Contreras. "To get from Nyeland Acres to Rio Mesa, a walk would take you 45 minutes one-way."
"Rio Mesa, unfortunately [is] a bit of a drive. So, if we have poor families, or families that may be out working in the fields from dawn 'til dusk, the kids might have no way to get here."
So, Principal Contreras is doing his best to make sure everyone has what they need. Computers, lunch, you name it.
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He started by handing out his phone number. "I just put a message out, saying here's my work number, call me if you need anything."
The principal then offered to make home deliveries. "It happened a few times, where this person needs a Chromebook, a hotspot, and some food," explains Contreras. "You, know, it gives you a chance to give back to the community. It's very rewarding when you see the look on their face."
For some faculty members its coffee and donuts at the front door, to keep those spirits high.
Teachers like Paige Egelston appreciate his hands-on efforts. "He's reminding us to look at the whole situation," says Egelston. "And just take it easy on ourselves and take it easy on our kids. As long as we are doing the best we can."
Egelston adds, "He just making sure that we are taken care of, in terms of our mental health and well-being. And putting the focus on that for the students, as well."
Because of his unconditional love, some students refer to Contreras as a father figure. "Some of these kids don't have a father, they don't have a role model... a male figure in their life," says Contreras.
"I just wanted to be that person that came from this Oxnard community, who just works hard, and loves on people," says Contreras. "It's a scary time for many people, you know."
Rio Mesa High School Principal Mark C. Contreras is our KNX Hero of the Week, for his undeniable dedication to his staff and students.
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
To see a special "senior" student tribute at RMHS, follow Principal Contreras on social media at @MarkCContreras
For special activities at Rio Mesa during the pandemic, go to https://www.facebook.com/rmhsspartans/
If you would like to nominate a future KNX Hero of the Week, go to https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
Hundreds of people who live around the Port of Los Angeles have been getting food and aid during the pandemic, thanks to our KNX Hero of the Week.
He's an officer with the LAPD Harbor Division who's going above and beyond the call of duty.
When the coronavirus forced the closure of businesses across Southern California, many people who were okay before - suddenly found themselves in need of help.
"I started seeing all of these posts, about my neighbors... and they need food," says Harbor Division Senior Lead Officer Nick Ferara. "So, I started checking around. And sure enough, I would knock on these doors and there would be an elderly lady who recently had surgery. And, her family's either non-existent or out of state, and they were hungry."
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So, Officer Ferara immediately started reaching out.
"I first decided to spend about $300 of my own money to buy groceries," explains Ferara. "I delivered about 20 packages."
He had shared his efforts on social media, and community members quickly joined his effort.
"They just started sending us cash... to support the cause."
Officer Ferara and his department set up a mini-fund and started buying more groceries and supplies for those who needed it. They then went house to house, delivering the goods.
Officer Ferara says it's been incredible watching how fast the community banded together. "It's very refreshing to see the good side of human nature."
His boss, LAPD Sergeant Catherine Plows, says Officer Ferara has a tremendous heart. "He is one of the kindest, young men that you will ever meet. I am so proud to call him a Los Angeles police officer."
She goes on to say, "It's a rarity when you have an officer that makes a connection with a community that he did not know before. If you look at social media... [community members] often refer to Nick as an 'angel in a uniform'."
An angel in a uniform, a hero in the community.
LAPD Harbor Division Senior Lead Officer Nick Ferara is our KNX Hero of the week!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
Follow Officer Ferara on Twitter @SLONick4
You can also nominate your own hero at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
Distance learning can be hard for a lot of students, and parents, during the pandemic. But it can be even harder for kids who are blind.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is helping those students not only get through their classes but to succeed.
19 year-old Lucie Courtois is a senior at Corona Del Mar High School. She's planning on graduating in June, and going to college.
But Lucie is visually impaired, and when she was forced to stay at home, classes became especially challenging. So, Blind Children's Learning Center stepped in, and quickly transitioned to a telehealth format, providing families like Lucie's with virtual classrooms and coaching sessions.
"The therapists will guide the parents through what they need to do," says Angie Rowe, who spearheaded the adjustments. She is the nonprofit's president and executive director. She says practically overnight, the center came up with innovative home-teaching tools.
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"It's like hands-on placement. They tell the parents where to put their hands, they'll give them activities to do," explains Angie.
Online instructors also help with things like speech therapy and mobility.
Lucie's mom, Carol Trapani, says there's been an interesting development with the quick change in format - it has accelerated her daughter's independence.
"It's required [Lucie] to really get sharp on the use of technology. And that's really what the future is going to hold for her... to have a job, to go to college, be in the community," says Carol. "It's all a result of Angie's leadership!"
For Angie, it's a labor of love.
"I am proud of the work we've done, to provide services in this environment," says Angie. "Being able just to make a little bit of difference with the 250 families that we work with, is awesome! And it's in my back yard! It's my own community, it's families here in Orange County, and I think it's something the who leadership team and our entire staff feels good about."
Helping students who are blind continue to succeed during the pandemic. Angie Rowe is our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans and all of our heroes!
For more information about Blind Children's Learning Center go to https://www.blindkids.org/
You can also nominate a KNX Hero of the Week at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
There are a lot of high-schoolers in Southern California who will be applying for college in the next year or so. But, with distance learning underway, some students are worried they may fall behind and not score well on their SATs or other entrance exams.
That's where our KNX Heroes of the Week step in.
When the coronavirus forced Taha Daud and his classmates to study from home, an unexpected need was uncovered. A need for specialized tutors.
"People are going to be nervous because they are missing a lot of weeks to prepare for the AP tests," says Taha. "Some classes haven't finished teaching their material, so we knew that there would be a demand for people who need help [with] some subjects."
So, the junior from Diamond Bar High School teamed up with his buddies Derek Wang and Zayn Siddique. Together, they created an online tutoring program that covers an array of subjects.
"We have AP U.S. History, Calculus AB, Physics-C, Physics 1, AP Chemistry, AP Bio..." Taha lists off.
He says the three founding classmates gathered other qualified student instructors, and in just a few weeks, more than eighty students have signed-up for tutoring.
It was truly a team effort.
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Taha's father, Feroz Merchhiya, says the young men utilized a gaming platform to set-up the online community.
"I am involved in technology, so I was absolutely delighted and proud that [they] took the initiative to do it," says Feroz, "in a constructive, productive way, and thought about other students."
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Plus, there's a perk. Taha explains that tutoring also helps him and his fellow instructors study for those all-important exams, as well.
"We just... we wanted to do what we could, to help out. Plus, [we were] going to be home all day... to help save lives."
"I feel like I could be proud of [this]," says Taha, "like I was doing a good thing."
Taha adds that the whole operation could not have been done without fellow instructors and classmates: Luke Zhou, Chelsea Wu, John Tai, Taha Daud, Camille McCurry, and Keshav Sriram.
We are naming Diamond Bar High School juniors Taha Daud, Derek Wang and Zayn Siddique as our KNX Heroes of the Week, for helping fellow classmates during the corona virus pandemic.
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you have a person you'd like to nominate as a KNX Hero of the Week, fill out the nomination form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A gallery owner in Culver City has adapted her business to serve her community, during the coronavirus pandemic.
She's our KNX Hero of the Week and she's feeding families, one grocery bag at a time.
Inside the Whole 9 Gallery on Main Street, there are are many pieces of interest.
"We show fine art, artisanal jewelry, and blown glass, etcetera," says gallery owner Lisa Schultz.
But right now, the pieces of interest consist of bags of food, that are filled with fruits, vegetables, bread and more.
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Lisa Schultz is a long-time community member in Culver City. Not only does she own the gallery, she's the founder of the Peace Project, which helps other communities around the world. When the coronavirus hit Southern California, Lisa jumped into action.
"Like everyone, I think, we were faced with the reality that we couldn't keep doing business," explains Lisa. "So, what I always do in situations of crisis, is say 'what can we do with our unique set of resources?'"
"I knew that food was going to be an issue for a lot of people. I know there's a food scarcity problem for a lot of kids in Culver City. So, I thought 'Wow, we can actually mobilize a community and create a food distribution center in the gallery.'"
So now, every week on Wednesday, Lisa and her crew hand out two bags to each family that comes by.
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"One bag includes dry goods and essentials like butter and eggs," says Lisa. "The other bag includes produce. And, so far, we've distributed to about 325 families, which we estimate is about 1,500 people."
Lisa also uses donations and funding to purchase food items from local bakeries and restaurants, giving them much-needed business. She also has neighbors donating fruit from the trees in their yard.
Families feeding families.
We are recognizing Lisa Schultz as our KNX Hero of the Week, for her action to keep her community thriving.
"It's really about sharing love, as much as it's about sharing food," says Lisa.
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
Hear more of Heather Jordan's conversation with Lisa Schultz by clicking the podcast audio link above.
Watch the video: https://vimeo.com/401651906
For more information about the Peace Project in Culver City, click: http://thepeaceproject.com/culvercityshares/
You can also nominate your own hero at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
A compassionate teenager from Rancho Santa Margarita is helping the homeless stay safe during the coronavirus outbreak.
She's our KNX Hero of Week, and her kindness is captivating the community.
It's only been a couple of weeks, and Shaivi Shah has already handed out hundreds of sanitizing kits.
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"I was just hearing the governor of California talk about the amount of people that are homeless," explains the 15-year old. "At that point, I was already doing online school (at home.) And so, I thought, you know, I have supplies, so I could maybe do something to help out."
So, Shaivi started packaging kits at home, packed with vital items.
"Hand soap, hand sanitizer, lotion and masks," says the Tesoro High School Student. The kits are then dropped-off at shelters around the community.
According to her mother, Shaivi has been involved with helping the homeless since she was young.
"So when she came up with the idea to help them again, it was not something that was new to us," says Dipti Shah.
Shaivi Shah's mom says she was concerned at first that there wouldn't be enough supplies to make all of the kits. But the 15-year-old did her research, and found everything she needed.
"She did good finding the resources, and she got help from her friends, calling different stores, to see if they have any supplies," says Dipti.
Now, hundreds of homeless people have a little help warding-off the coronavirus.
"I've donated 640 [kits] right now," says Shaivi, "but I've made, in total, about 800."
And through the help of a GoFundMe account, Shaivi has much more she wants to accomplish.
"I've raised about $18,000 on my GoFundMe, so with that I can make about 4,000 kits. So, that's the goal."
Caring for others during the coronavirus pandemic.
Fifteen-year-old Shaivi Shah is making a difference in her community, helping the homeless stay safe with sanitizing kits, and that is why we are honoring her as our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
To donate funds for Shaivi's mission, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/covid19-sanitation-kit-for-the-homeless-community
You can also nominate your own KNX Hero of the Week at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
Heather Jordan, KNX 1070 News Radio.
Easing the anxiety caused by the coronavirus.
A large group of medical students at UC-Irvine are reaching out to their fellow physicians to lend a hand, but in a way that's unexpected.
The pandemic can be especially tough for doctors, nurses and other medical personnel who have children at home while they work to save lives. In some cases, a baby-sitter is needed. In others, it's tutoring. Or walking the dog. Or buying groceries.
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At UC-Irvine, nearly all first-year medical students have moved to online classes. Because they do not have the clinical workload as their fellow classmates, first-year students tend to have a more flexible schedule. So, over a hundred UC-Irvine undergrads signed up to offer their free time to help those in need.
"In general, we have 141," remarks Justine Chinn, who adds that some students are also from Western University.
The idea for the service collection came to fruition through Justine Chinn and fellow classmate Austin Franklin. Franklin gathered the list of students able to help. Chinn reached out to department heads to find out what the needs were. A spreadsheet soon developed.
"We could go sign up and offer up our services," says first-year student Caroline Nore, who is helping a doctor with babysitting. "Errands, dog-walking, pet-sitting, child-care, anything like that. And then we were then matched with with employees, staff, nurses, and doctors in the medical center that were looking for some help."
Chinn says the feedback from the medical staff has been incredible.
"I think there's just been so much stress, anxiety, and fear around this time... and it's given them some hope."
Going above and beyond. Organizing a plan to help those who are risking it all to save lives during this uncertain time - we are recognizing UCI medical students Justine Chinn and Austin Franklin as our KNX Heroes of the Week!
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you would like to nominate a KNX Hero, send an email to Heroes@KNX1070.com or click this link to fill out a submission form: https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
The coronavirus pandemic has forced a lot of changes across our community. It includes the closure of restaurants and schools - where many people get their daily meals.
So, a former KNX Hero of the Week is adapting his food kitchen to help keep thousands of people nourished during this time of uncertainty.
Bracken's Kitchen is a staple for many in Orange County. It's run by five-star chef Bill Bracken, and it provides free food for kids and adults; the homeless and the hungry. In just four days last week, Bracken's Kitchen served nearly 15,000 meals.
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"We literally pivoted all of our food service programming, and turned into another direction, so that we can ramp up and do massive production meals for everybody who's going to need it," says Bill.
"We're making pasta primavera, roast chicken, beef stroganoff... we're making pork stew. We're just doing tons of one-pot meals, that we send out with fresh fruit and bread... to those who are really needy right now."
Bracken's Kitchen is also helping restaurant industry workers who recently lost their jobs. Bill says people with cooking experience can make things in the kitchen move a bit faster, which is crucial since the number of orders have been increasing dramatically.
"We've brought in a strategic planner to our emergency response team. And, he has been working with a variety of organizations to arrange getting the food out."
This week, Bracken's Kitchen expects to serve between 20,000 and 25,000 meals.
"We're all over the place," says Bill. "We're feeding a lot of families and kids."
Health measures are also being taken, to keep everyone safe.
"The first thing we do is hit the temperature on the forehead, and make sure [the workers] are safe, with no fevers. And, we make sure people are taking the social isolation serious," says Bill. "Otherwise, this will turn into a bigger problem for us."
Our former KNX Hero of the Week, Bill Bracken! Keeping the community fed during this time of uncertainty.
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
If you would like to nominate a KNX Hero of the Week, send an email to heroes @ KNX1070.com.
Turning unwanted furniture into fresh digs.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is re-purposing high-quality furniture headed to the dump, to brighten the lives of those in need.
For years, Justine Mackey battled challenges, including homelessness. The single mom says it took some time to get back on her feet. But, she eventually found a solid place to live. But her apartment was empty, and not ideal for raising a son. That's when an organization called Furnishing Hope stepped in, and everything changed.
"I couldn't stop crying!" Justine tearfully exclaims. "I almost had a heart attack, I was crying so hard, for so long. Each room they brought me too, I was crying harder and harder, because it was so amazing!"
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"I love my apartment and I am very proud," says Justine. "Being chronically homeless, this is my first apartment, and my first time having a real shot at life. I work two jobs. I work really hard, and I just want things to be normal for my son."
Furnishing Hope is the brainchild of long-time Orange County designer, Beth Phillips.
"I just saw a lot to the things that my clients were wanting to get rid of when their homes were ready to move into," says Beth. "It would [just go into] the landfill."
"I thought there ought to be some way to connect the people that don't have enough... with the people who have too much."
"So, I took an opportunity to start a 501C3 when I had three clients that were just changing the whole interiors of their home. And with that, I furnished six homes with Habitat for Humanity."
Since 2004, Beth and Furnishing Hope have furnished hundreds of homes, many that have gone to wounded veterans. Beth says having a kitchen table, a sofa, a bed... can be life-changing. Especially for young people.
"It's such a part of your self-esteem," says Beth. "You know, at the end of the day, you can just go home, and you can just be yourself. And, it's so important for the children, because they need their own bed, and their covers, and their princess pillows."
Turning an empty space into a furnished home, filled with love. We are honoring Beth Phillips as our KNX Hero of the Week, for bringing light to those who need a little extra!
KNX Heroes is presented by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
Nominate a KNX Hero of the Week at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
For more information about Furnishing Hope, go to https://furnishinghope.org/
If you recently participated in the Los Angeles Marathon, you might have noticed a big, purple party at Mile 21.
That party was led by our KNX Heroes of the Week.
On Sunday, March 9th, the Hirshberg Foundation and Tour De Pier teamed up with members from Cycle Bar to help fight the battle against pancreatic cancer. While runners ran across the city of Los Angeles, dozens of cyclists rode to raise money for research.
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"The Purple People Party is our charity's official course support station," says Lisa Manheim, executive director of the Hirshberg Foundation. "We talked about how we can we make the Purple People Party the best cheer station on the course, [while bringing] more energy to the course... and that's how this marriage came to be."
Lisa collaborated with Steph Sklar Mucahy, who owns Cycle Bar locations in Culver City and Santa Monica. Steph has actively supported charities and causes over the years, and she says teaming up for the LA Marathon was a perfect fit.
"I thought what better way to, you know, get out there on course," says Steph. "To just bring some cheer and make a lot of noise, and that's what we did!"
Twenty-six stationary bikes were lined up along the street at Mile 21 of the LA Marathon, so riders could celebrate and motivate runners as they passed by. The Purple People Party involved more than seventy cyclists who rode during three one-hour sessions.
"Marathon day was such an amazing day!" exclaims Steph. "To be able to see all those runners out there on the course - we were just feeling so much love. And we were giving it right back! And, the excitement that people had on their faces when they saw us! It was just really incredible to see it all come to life."
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More than $140,000 was raised.
Lisa says it was a powerful day. "Knowing that everything that you've done has been to help someone, or to make a difference in a cancer patient's life. Or impact research long term... its really easy to be motivated."
Collaborating for cause.
We are honoring Lisa Manheim and Steph Sklar Mucahy as our KNX Heroes of the Week, for their efforts to fight pancreatic cancer!
KNX Heroes is brought to you by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
For more information about the Hirshberg Foundation and the Purple People Cheer Party, go to http://pancreatic.org/event/purple-people-cheer-party/
For more information about Cycle Bar in Culver City and Santa Monica, visit Facebook pages @cyclebarsantamonica and @cyclebarculvercity
To see future events with Tour De Pier, go to tourdepier.org
If you'd like to nominate a KNX Hero of the Week, fill out a nomination form at https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate or send an email directly to heroes@KNX12070.com
When illness strikes, bills can pile up quickly. Especially medical bills.
Our KNX Hero of the Week is a college student from Newbury Park, who created a foundation to help some of those families who are suffering from a sudden financial crisis.
"It kind of all started when I was in 8th grade, when the Boston Marathon bombings happened," says Missy Marquis. "Running is a big part of my family. And, when it happened, it instilled a lot of fear... I said, we gotta to do something."
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By the time Missy graduated high school, she had created the Jewel Levine Foundation. It's named after her grandmother, and it helps those dealing with extraordinary medical bills.
In just a few short years, her foundation has raised more than $200,000 dollars, assisting more than a half-dozen families in Southern California.
Kimberly Bennett was one of those recipients. Finances became tight after Kimberly stopped working to care for a child who was enduring a long hospital stay.
She says Missy is not just a KNX hero, she's a superhero. "Her heart is just so full of compassion! She's 20 [years old], who does that kind of thing?" exclaims Kimberly.
"The fact that she has been so inspired by her grandmother and her story... she has changed lives."
The Jewel Levine Foundation is a family affair, with Missy's parents and her brother involved. Together they host two annual fundraisers.
"We have a 4th of July 5K/10K," says Missy.
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They also host a big crawfish boil. The next one is coming up on Saturday, March 14th, in Thousand Oaks.
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"It just kind of blows me away, that it all started from my little 8th grade self," recalls Missy. "Just thinking I could have this little idea of wanting to raise money... and then it to turn into the foundation that it is, and the events that we've done. The money we've raised, the people we've helped. It's truly amazing."
Providing hope and support to families under financial duress, we are honoring Missy Marquis as our KNX Hero of the Week!
KNX Heroes is brought to by California Resources Corporation, saluting our military veterans, and all of our heroes!
Nominate your own hero by clicking https://knx1070.radio.com/nominate
For more information about the Jewel Levine Foundation, and the events they host, go to http://www.thejewellevinefoundation.org/