Los Angeles County Mayor Michael D. Antonovich celebrated the contributions of county volunteer honorees this month at the 33rd Annual Awards Luncheon at the Los Angeles County Music Center.

“We have more than 100,000 volunteers who donated over 4 million hours last year to help county departments operate more efficiently and save county taxpayers approximately $93 million,” he said.

Of the 66 honorees, four were selected by Antonovich from within his 5th supervisorial district, which includes the Santa Clarita Valley.

Antonovich’s County Volunteer of the Year honorees are:

Ron Kraus has served as Vice President of Placerita Canyon Nature Center Associates for eight years and is in charge of training for the Naturalist Training Program.  On the Museum Committee, Ron helped lead the design and construction process of the new museum exhibit space.  He monitors the trail system — reporting graffiti, damage and debris– and is working to implement several interpretive programs for children with the Eaton Canyon Nature Center Associates.  Ron also serves as the resident park historian for countless visitors and the media.

Harold Shiffman has been a volunteer at the Santa Clarita Valley Station since 2008. His exceptional work ethic as a volunteer on patrol has lead him to become a training officer for the new volunteers.  He also maintains a can-do attitude and self-motivation that make him an extremely reliable asset to the station, the department, the community and fellow volunteers.

Brandon Sengendo performed a variety of duties for the County Library, including helping the Castaic Library during its temporary move and recent expansion.  Among his volunteer assignments, he brought enthusiasm and great ideas to group activities including the Teen Advisory Board.  His hard work and dedication have been an invaluable benefit to the County Library.

Karol Curtis, from the San Dimas Booster Club and the Walnut/San Dimas Booster Club, helped raise over $2,000 a year to benefit volunteer services at the San Dimas Sheriff’s Station.  She helped create bylaws and spearheaded the very successful See’s Candies fundraiser out of her real estate business.  Karol is currently President of the Station’s Community Advisory Committee.

In addition, the National History Museum honored local Hart Mansion volunteer Evan Decker, as reported [here].