Barry and Pati Gump

As the driving forces behind the well-known, multi-generational family business Andy Gump Inc., Barry and Pati Gump have always worked to ensure that their personal and professional success could be shared to help build a stronger community and make a difference in the lives of those most in need. Passionate supporters of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and countless other CF related projects and charities, the Gumps have also provided resources and support for a wide range of non-profit organizations and events throughout the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valleys, continually building a strong reputation for their willingness to help others.

Because of this, the College of the Canyons Foundation has named Barry and Pati Gump recipients of the college’s “Silver Spur” Community Service Award for 2013.

“Barry and Pati embody the spirit of service that is unique to our community. They work quietly behind the scenes to support entities throughout Santa Clarita, and make a profound difference in the many lives they touch,” said College of the Canyons Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook. “Their dedicated service stems from their genuine interest in the welfare of others, and a heartfelt generosity that is rarely seen today. They are most deserving of the Silver Spur award, and we appreciate this opportunity to honor their service.”

For nearly 25 years Barry and Pati Gump have been active supporters of several key projects and programs at College of the Canyons, helping to sponsor a variety of fund raising events and initiatives — including the college’s University Center capital campaign — and donating sanitation and fencing services for the college’s various athletics facilities and ongoing construction projects.

“We are particularly grateful for their support at College of the Canyons,” added Van Hook. “Barry and Pati played an integral role in making the dream of the University Center a reality. Because of their investment, they have opened the doors of opportunity for those who want to pursue their educational goals closer to home in the Santa Clarita Valley.”

However, the couple’s true passion stems from their commitment to advancing the science and treatment of cystic fibrosis.

Having lost their own daughter, Cherilyn, to CF in 1970, the Gump’s charity work in this area has largely been driven by the dream that no parent will ever have to lose their child to this ugly disease.

For the last 30 years Barry has served on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) National Board of Trustees as a National Trustee, annually lobbying before the U.S. Congress and delivering speeches in an effort to raise funds to find a cure. He is also a former president of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Southern California Chapter, and continues to serve on the Board.

In 1980, Barry and Pati joined forces with other CF supporters and local Dodgers fans to start the Los Angeles Dodgers 65 Roses Sports Club (the name “65 Roses” stems from the way many children with CF pronounce the disease).

The project allowed fans of the Dodgers to get involved with CF fundraising efforts by pledging to donate $10 for every home run the team hit. The Dodgers 65 Roses Sports Club soon grew to become one of the leading clubs in the nation, raising significant dollars for CF care and research and attracting the involvement of many well-known sports figures.

Barry and Pati have also worked with the national sorority Beta Sigma Phi to raise nearly $2.6 million for CF, and are annual participants in the CFF’s Great Strides National Walk Event.

In 1985, Barry and Pati were presented the CFF’s Breath of Life Award, recognizing the couple’s significant volunteerism and fundraising efforts. To date, the couple has helped raise millions of dollars and improved the lives of thousands of families living with CF.

Throughout the years, the Gumps have also remained dedicated to serving their community, having generously supported local non-profit organizations including the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clarita, Michael Hoefflin Foundation, the Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital Foundation (HMNMH) and SCV Child & Family Center.

The annual College of the Canyons Silver Spur Celebration is traditionally held at a historic museum, club or well-known Los Angeles landmark each spring — and is considered to be one of the community’s most popular and elegant evening events.

The 2013 Silver Spur Celebration will take place Saturday, March 2, 2013, at the Globe Theater located inside Universal Studios Hollywood, in Universal City.

The event begins at 6 p.m. and the dress code is “black tie optional.” The evening includes live entertainment, a studio tour, a cocktail party on the park’s British themed Baker Street and an inspired cuisine by Wolfgang Puck Catering. This year’s event is being co-chaired by Randy and Mitzi Moberg, members of the COC Foundation Board of Directors.

Previous recipients of the Silver Spur award include: Richard and Marian Sandnes, Diana Cusumano, Myrna and Gary Condie, Harold and Jacquie Petersen, Wayne Crawford, Rita Garasi, Tom Veloz, Charlotte and Frank Kleeman, Gary Cusumano, Jay and Joyce Rodgers, Tom Lee, Lou Garasi, Michael Berger, Roberta Veloz, Dick Luechtefeld, Robert Ormsby, LaVerne Harris, John Hoskinson, Tom Dierckman, Scott and Ruth Newhall, Elisha “Aggie” Agajanian and Cliffe Stone.

For more information about the 2013 Silver Spur Award Ceremony, or to purchase tickets or become an event sponsor please contact the College of the Canyons Foundation at 661-362-3737.