Most Optimistic Community Member of the Year
Do you know someone who has inspired you by their optimism? Do you know someone who encourages you to be your best self? Do you know someone who makes a positive difference in the lives of others? Nomination forms for the fourth annual Most Optimistic Community Member will be available soon.
Recognized in 2023 were Faith Friedlander of Kids and Families Together and Jennifer Thompson of Cassie’s Cats both non-profit organizations that benefit foster children and rescue cats respectively. The awards were given at the club’s annual awards gathering.
“Faith Friedlander is and always has been, one of the most optimistic people that I have had the pleasure of being around. Faith’s constant dedication to all of the programs Kids & Families Together offer and the people that work with (and for) her have kept all of us hopeful and positive through a pandemic that made the future not seem so bright–her optimism and hopefulness helped us weather that storm and prepare us for anything the future holds for us.” Faith was nominated by Kim Becker.
“Not only is Jennifer Thompson of Cassie’s Cats loved by the donors, volunteers, sponsors, adopters and community, she is adored by the cats and kittens in the lounge. These discerning creatures gravitate to her–they understand and reciprocate her unconditional love. They trust her and she honors that trust by making sure every adoption is a good fit for the animal and the prospective adopters. There is so much to admire about Jennifer yet what moves, touches and inspires us the most is her demonstration of bottomless concern and kindness for the creatures that do not have a voice of their own.” Jennifer was nominated by Shannon Evans and Donna Nicholson.
Recognized in 2023 were Faith Friedlander of Kids and Families Together and Jennifer Thompson of Cassie’s Cats both non-profit organizations that benefit foster children and rescue cats respectively. The awards were given at the club’s annual awards gathering.
“Faith Friedlander is and always has been, one of the most optimistic people that I have had the pleasure of being around. Faith’s constant dedication to all of the programs Kids & Families Together offer and the people that work with (and for) her have kept all of us hopeful and positive through a pandemic that made the future not seem so bright–her optimism and hopefulness helped us weather that storm and prepare us for anything the future holds for us.” Faith was nominated by Kim Becker.
“Not only is Jennifer Thompson of Cassie’s Cats loved by the donors, volunteers, sponsors, adopters and community, she is adored by the cats and kittens in the lounge. These discerning creatures gravitate to her–they understand and reciprocate her unconditional love. They trust her and she honors that trust by making sure every adoption is a good fit for the animal and the prospective adopters. There is so much to admire about Jennifer yet what moves, touches and inspires us the most is her demonstration of bottomless concern and kindness for the creatures that do not have a voice of their own.” Jennifer was nominated by Shannon Evans and Donna Nicholson.
Most Optimistic Community Member 2022
Each year, the club accepts nominations for the Most Optimistic Community Member. Todd Taylor was recognized as the 2022 Most Optimistic Community Member at the club’s annual fall awards gathering. Todd has lived most of his life in Ventura and is known and loved by all who have met him. He was thrilled speechless when the surprise award was presented.
TODD TAYLOR He’s Optimistic From His Head to His Toes
"Todd Taylor makes me happy, plain and simple, every time I am fortunate enough to spend time with him. Todd has a lot of reasons that he could be negative. He was born with Cerebral Palsy making his every movement a challenge. People are not always kind to him. Sometimes he physically hurts. But Todd always has a smile on his face. He exudes an abounding joy and gratitude for all that he has in his life. When I asked him why he is so optimistic he said “I’m just a happy person.” Todd says that his deep faith and his family are two reasons that he remains optimistic no matter what difficulties come his way. If you are fortunate enough to meet Todd, you will be given a precious gift: that of being in his optimistic glow—and don’t forget to say “hi” and give him a happy smile.”
Todd was nominated by club member Roanna Prell. The Sunrise Optimist Club has been active in Ventura since 1960 and is alied with Optimist International. The Club also recognized Frances Flores, E.P. Foster teacher as Educator of the Year and Sgt. Eric Vazquez, Ventura Police Department as Safety Officer of the Year.
For Information about the nomination process for the 2023 Most Optimistic Community Member or about the Sunrise Optimist Club of Ventura contact [email protected] or visit www.venturasunriseoptimist.org.
Each year, the club accepts nominations for the Most Optimistic Community Member. Todd Taylor was recognized as the 2022 Most Optimistic Community Member at the club’s annual fall awards gathering. Todd has lived most of his life in Ventura and is known and loved by all who have met him. He was thrilled speechless when the surprise award was presented.
TODD TAYLOR He’s Optimistic From His Head to His Toes
"Todd Taylor makes me happy, plain and simple, every time I am fortunate enough to spend time with him. Todd has a lot of reasons that he could be negative. He was born with Cerebral Palsy making his every movement a challenge. People are not always kind to him. Sometimes he physically hurts. But Todd always has a smile on his face. He exudes an abounding joy and gratitude for all that he has in his life. When I asked him why he is so optimistic he said “I’m just a happy person.” Todd says that his deep faith and his family are two reasons that he remains optimistic no matter what difficulties come his way. If you are fortunate enough to meet Todd, you will be given a precious gift: that of being in his optimistic glow—and don’t forget to say “hi” and give him a happy smile.”
Todd was nominated by club member Roanna Prell. The Sunrise Optimist Club has been active in Ventura since 1960 and is alied with Optimist International. The Club also recognized Frances Flores, E.P. Foster teacher as Educator of the Year and Sgt. Eric Vazquez, Ventura Police Department as Safety Officer of the Year.
For Information about the nomination process for the 2023 Most Optimistic Community Member or about the Sunrise Optimist Club of Ventura contact [email protected] or visit www.venturasunriseoptimist.org.
