Diamond Bar Seeks 'A Few Good (Wo)men' to Honor

The city of Diamond Bar is again looking to honor those in the community who go above and beyond when it comes to community service-- and they're asking for your input.

The city asks in this month's newsletter:

"Do you know someone – a relative, neighbor, classmate, or business owner – whom you feel should be recognized for his or her contributions to making our community a better place?"

It's all a part of the annual Outstanding Volunteer Award, in which Diamond Bar recognizes "individuals of all ages who are committed to serving the Diamond Bar community through volunteerism."

Winners are chosen from each of the following categories:

• adult (18 years and older)
• youth (17 years and younger)

Last year, three adults and three teens took home the honor, and were recognized at the city's 23rd annual birthday party, according to Cecilia Arellano, the city's spokeswoman.  This year, winners will also be presented with their awards at the birthday party, scheduled for April 13.

If you know someone you'd like to nominate for the award, just go to this website here.

"All you need is to provide contact information for you and your nominee, and write a brief summary highlighting how your nominee improves the lives of others in our community," the city says.

The nomination period closes on Friday, March 2. 

The winners from 2012 were honored because (info from the city of Diamond Bar):

• Debbie Avila-Mott: Long-time Diamond Bar resident,  Mrs. Avila-Mott has served as a Girl Scout Leader in the Diamond Bar area for 20 years, acted as the Entertainment Chair for the American Cancer Society’s Diamond Bar Relay for Life, and helped establish an annual Cancer Awareness Football Event at Diamond Ranch High School.  Mrs. Avila-Mott is also an integral member of the Diamond Bar Day at the Fair Committee, helping raise funds for the Big Yellow Bus Program and assisting with the parade on the day of the event.
• Jolene Zirbes: In 2009, when the Diamond Bar Community Foundation (DBCF) set out to take over the publication of The Windmill magazine they turned to  long-time Diamond Bar resident Jolene Zirbes for assistance. Due to Mrs. Zirbes’ extensive involvement with the 50-year old nonprofit magazine when it was published by the Diamond Bar Improvement Association (DBIA), she was able to ensure the transition was seamless. Mrs. Zirbes currently handles all DBCF bookkeeping duties while remaining involved in the production of The Windmill.

• Josie Bautista: Non-profits rely heavily on volunteers to accomplish their goals however recruiting and retaining quality help can prove to be challenge, which is why the Diamond Bar Soccer League feels fortunate to have Josie Bautista on its team. As one of its longest-serving volunteers, Mrs. Bautista is instrumental to the success of the youth soccer league, by going above and beyond to motivate League participants and serve as a mentor.

• Megan Reddy: Four-time recipient of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award 15-year old Megan, who is actively involved in the community through service at her church and local hospital. Her efforts include helping organize fundraisers and assisting the elderly.

• Elven Tsao: Bit at an early age by the volunteering bug, Eleven was only 12 years old enroll the City’s teen group “DB 4 YOUTH” with the desire to improve Diamond Bar. He joined in 2008 has continued to be an active member of group, volunteering at numerous community events and helping plan and organize a successful food drive.

• Nicole Flores: A straight-A student at Diamond Ranch High School, Nicole makes it a point to arrive early to school in order to help assist special needs students and lend a hand in the main office. When not in school, Nicole volunteers in the community, including Mt. San Antonio College.

For more information about the award program, contact the city's community services department at 909-839-7060.