National Philanthropy Day honorees announced

*The Laguna Hills-Saddleback Kiwanis Club has been busy volunteering and raising funds to support the local community, local schools, and young people since 1967. Nearly all of the 100+ members are retirees from Laguna Woods, for this group, retiring from the world is the last thing on their minds. They have a keen desire to serve their community and fellow man; and Kiwanis offers them a vehicle for social contact, philanthropy, and community service. Over the years, Laguna Hills-Saddleback Kiwanis has donated over $1 million to local and international causes through membership dues, the Pancake Breakfast, the Scholarship Fund Drive, and other fundraising activities.

OUTSTANDING YOUTH

Morgan Wickett, Ladera Ranch

Nominated by Alzheimer's Association Orange County Chapter and Calvary Chapel Grace Children's Ministry

*Morgan Wickett’s Great-Grandmother has Alzheimer’s, and Wickett takes action to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association in her honor. In the past year, Wickett raised $735. Wickett speaks about dementia with a deep perspective that far exceeds her age yet still motivates her peers.

The Orange County fifth-grader is an active member in the Children's Ministry at Calvary Chapel Grace Church, making frequent trips to Mexico to give back to children in need.

Wickett has innovated new ways to take fundraising drives to the computer, shown remarkable leadership when interacting with donors, and responded to every call for help with an enthusiastic and impassioned “yes.”