The City Council on Tuesday recognized an American Cancer Society volunteer and two volunteers from the Mission Viejo Activities Committee for their outstanding efforts. Council recognitions are designed to pay homage to those who make a difference in Mission Viejo.
City staffer Denise Matson was honored for her role in raising awareness of a cancer study that could change the face of cancer for future generations. Mission Viejo was the only Orange County city to offer residents and others in neighboring communities an unprecedented opportunity to participate in the historic study that was conducted during the June 4 Relay for Life event. Through hard work and planning, Denise was instrumental in exceeding the American Cancer Society’s expectations by helping to get more than 189 people to register for the society’s Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3). The Mission Viejo Relay was the top CPS-3 site in the state this year. This passionate volunteer was feted at the society’s regional and corporate levels and is a person who doesn’t just “talk the talk” but actually “walks the walk.”
The Council also recognized Margot Ferron and Cathy Allen of the Mission Viejo Activities Committee for their efforts in raising more than $9,000 for Joplin, Missouri. The committee launched the Joplin fundraiser in June to benefit shattered survivors of the tornado that ripped through that city in May.
Margot and Cathy spearheaded fundraising efforts by collecting donations at the July 4th Street Faire and City’s Pacific Symphony event. They held a prayer and rally for the victims and made cards for the kids in Joplin. They held Christmas in July and raffled off special baskets. Their efforts were endless and led to the Mayor of Joplin thanking Mission Viejo for its support by sending a large piece of steel to City Hall from a Home Depot that was demolished in the relentless storm. On Sunday, Cathy and Margot will join Joplin’s mayor to present the funds this community donated and partake in a 9/11 remembrance ceremony. Mission Viejo Mayor Dave Leckness praised the two volunteers for their perseverance, compassion and efforts to help others in need.
To watch Tuesday’s presentations and entire City Council meeting, visit the City’s website at www.cityofmissionviejo.org.
