Heroes Among Us

Victorville, Ca. They spent over fifty Thousand hours feeding thousands, building homes, and providing clothing to those in need.  They have walked thousands of miles to raise money for cancer research, thousands of hours organizing blood drives and charity  breakfasts to raise tens of thousands of dollars for worthy causes.  They are a cornerstone at the local hospitals, volunteering more time than many work.   They can be seen all over town in the most visible and unusual places, repairing exhibits at the Big Bear Zoo or organizing a “Make a Wish” benefit, and even honoring our Military Heroes.  Our senior citizens love them as they  rely on their dependability for the smallest chores, to those most needed, such as getting to their medical appointments,   driving to the pharmacy, or simply being a thoughtful Listener.

            The applicants to the 2010 Don Ferrarese Charitable Foundation, representing the ten public high schools would offer the most pessimistic among us, faith in the generation of kids graduating high school today.  Faith that they are fully aware of social issues and the need to contribute to their neighbor and those in need.  Faith knowing that the strength of the human spirit, the American spirit is live and well in our kids.   The most doubtful would take respite in knowing that the delinquents we so often hear about in the daily news are so very different from the majority of kids who are simply doing what they can, when they can with what they have.  And mostly what they have is a compassionate heart filled with a desire to make a difference. 
           

The Don Ferrarese Charitable Foundation awarded it’s 2010 scholarships this past Saturday, offering eight $4,000.00 scholarships to students from as many high schools.  In it’s fifth year, the foundation has now awarded forty-six (46) $4,000.00 scholarships to   college bound students from throughout the Victor Valley, based solely upon their charitable service.  “It is important that we recognize our kids for their efforts and not just their troubles”  says Don Ferrarese, namesake of the charity.  “If the community could see what I see, sitting in all of the senior awards ceremonies throughout the valley, hearing the incredible accomplishments of so many of our kids, they too would be inspired”.  Chris Espinoza of Outback Steakhouse  sponsors the luncheon each year, hosting the recipients, their parents, counselors and principals, providing a full lunch to approximately 80  for free, as his way of recognizing these young volunteers.    A two hour presentation following lunch, presented the recipients with challenges that they will face when leaving home and ways that they may embrace and  maintain their uniqueness and own identities.  The Don Ferrarese Charitable Foundation can be reached online at www.don-frse.com or by calling 760-951-8003.