The heart of Santa Clarita Valley is only reinforced by the commitment of individuals to create a stronger community. This year, the Santa Clarita Valley Family YMCA has chosen to honor a public servant who has worked to advocate for Santa Clarita residents for over thirty-five years. More than three hundred business owners and community leaders will come together to celebrate Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich as this year’s recipient of the distinguished John Fuller Memorial Award at the YMCA’s 3rd Annual Heart of the Community Gala on Thursday, Sept. 22, at the Hyatt Regency in Valencia.

The YMCA’s Heart of the Community Gala celebrates the Y’s continued efforts toward enriching the lives of residents while recognizing those who have helped support that effort. “Supervisor Antonovich has been a consistent advocate for the YMCA, and his strong support has enabled the Y to provide vital services for young people in our community such as new camp experiences for our youth and many enrichment programs for our young families,” said Ernie Sacco, the YMCA’s Executive Director. “He has played an important part in our Y story,” he added.

Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich has represented the 2 million residents of Los Angeles County’s Fifth District since 1980. His tenure as Supervisor has been characterized by his dedication to public safety and support for small business, foster children, seniors, veterans and the mentally ill. He has been a strong advocate for the environment, successfully preserving thousands of acres of open space and enhancing parks, trails and recreational programs and facilities that we enjoy here in Santa Clarita. In addition, Supervisor Antonovich initiated libraries in Stevenson Ranch, Castaic and Acton/Agua Dulce.  He partnered with City of Santa Clarita to build a new Sheriff Station, the “Drug-Free Youth In Town” program, One Valley One Vision and the Santa Clarita Senior Center.

John Fuller at a Henry Mayo Hospital fundraiser in 1980.

The important contributions of John Fuller stand as inspiration for the award. Mr. Fuller served for 15 years on the SCV Family Y board, twice as chairperson. His compassion and heart for Santa Clarita led him toward significant community improvements in service to organizations such as Henry Mayo Hospital, Newhall School District and Castaic Lake Water Agency. John Fuller passed away in 2014. He is survived by his wife Ellie Fuller, who will be presenting the award at the event. Past recipient of The Heart of the Community Award include community leader, Dana Copp and former Congressman Howard “Buck” McKeon.

The Heart of the Community Gala will feature City Mayor Bob Kellar as master of ceremonies, with a flag salute by one of the Y’s own Adventure Guide families. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Y’s Annual Campaign, which provides direct financial assistance to children and families in need and underwrites youth development programs.

“One of the Y’s primary goals has always been to support youth development,” said Colin Jones, SCV Family YMCA Board of Managers Chairman. “Proceeds from this event will also help support this cause through Y programs such as camp, Adventure Guides and Youth and Government that help develop self-confidence, strong positive values, leadership skills and civic engagement.”

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available. To purchase tickets or inquire about a sponsorship, please visit www.ymcala.org/santa-clarita, or for more information contact Ernie Sacco at erniesacco@ymcala.org, or call (661) 253-3593.
The YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Santa Clarita branch offers opportunities such as before and after school child care, youth enrichment classes, swim lessons, family events, camp experiences and much more. The YMCA promotes character development, healthy lifestyles and family interactions through programming that creates memories, builds community and changes lives.