Foundation

Foundation for Success: Former Rams standout Jackie Slater to deliver keynote

Editor’s note:  We are pleased to present the second story in our latest blog series, “Foundation for Success: 10 Year Anniversary Celebration.”  In this installment, we share our excitement that Jackie Slater, former Los Angeles Rams star, will deliver the keynote address.

What could possibly be as exciting for a true football fan than the return of the Los Angeles Rams to California?  That would have to be the opportunity to hear firsthand from a legendary former Rams offensive tackle.

KidWorks’ Foundation for Success luncheon will provide exactly that opportunity when we welcome Jackie Slater as our keynote speaker.

The event will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Santa Ana/Orange County Airport, on Thursday, Nov. 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Jackie played his entire 20-year career with the Rams organization.  He was considered the most consistent member of one of the most potent offensive lines in NFL history.  Jackie was selected to play in seven Pro Bowls and broke a record for most seasons with one team.  His jersey number was retired and he was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001.

Jackie was a recipient of the Bart Starr Man of the Year Award in 1995, which is given to the player who best exemplifies outstanding character and leadership on and off the football field.  He lives up to this award even after retiring as he continues to positively shape the lives of others as the offensive line coach at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California.

“KidWorks and I share a passion for helping young people reach their full potential,” Jackie says.  “Football is one of the most competitive sports ever, but the playing field is nothing like the challenges within the neighborhoods KidWorks serves.  I’m looking forward to meeting KidWorks’ supporters and sharing my story at the 10th anniversary of the Foundation for Success Luncheon.
 

For more information about the KidWorks Luncheon, or to purchase tickets, CLICK HERE

Foundation for Success: We proudly honor Mike Groff, our first Dan Donahue Leadership Award recipient

Editor’s note:  We are pleased to present our latest blog series, “Foundation for Success: 10 Year Anniversary Celebration.”  In our first installment, we express our deep gratitude to the President and CEO of Toyota Financial Services, Mike Groff, who is the 2016 Foundation for Success Luncheon honoree and recipient of the inaugural Dan Donahue Leadership Award.  

The 10-year anniversary of the KidWorks’ Foundation for Success luncheon is the ideal time to recognize and give a heartfelt  “thank you!” to a key supporter who has been with us since the very first luncheon in 2007.

We are excited to do this through the very first Dan Donahue Leadership Award, created to recognize KidWorks’ most fervent supporters and friends who have supported the luncheon since its inception.

“KidWorks has benefitted from Mike’s strategic thinking, wise counsel and generous heart,” says David Benavides, KidWorks’ Executive Director.  “We are also deeply grateful to Toyota Financial Services, as they return again this year as one of our three presenting sponsors, joining American Career College and West Coast University.”

“KidWorks understands that for our young people to truly thrive, and for a community to truly transform, we need parents, teachers, public officials, and corporate neighbors working together,” Mike says.  “For the past 10 years, Toyota Financial Services has been proud to support the amazing life-skills programs and educational opportunities made possible by the dedicated volunteers, donors and staff at KidWorks.  I am truly honored to be part of this year’s Foundation for Success Luncheon and part of the KidWorks family.”

Mike, on behalf of the more than 800 children, youth and parents we serve, KidWorks thanks you for your deep commitment and loyal support.  We are so honored and proud to present you with the very first Dan Donahue Leadership Award.


For more information about our KidWorks Luncheon, or to purchase tickets, CLICK HERE.