Assemblymember Mia Bonta presented awards to a number of local groups and individuals at the California Assembly District 18 Awards [1] celebration in Emeryville on October 27. The awards recognize nonprofits and individuals in California Assembly District 18 for exceptional public service. Alamedans were well represented in the honors.
[2]Recognizing many community advocates and organizations in the District—Alameda, Oakland, and Emeryville—Assemblymember Bonta covered the gamut of social outreach with the 2023 awards. Awards ranged from Small Business of the Year, Local Hero, and Woman of the Year to Non-Profit of the Year and Social Justice Champion, to name only a few.
The Kiwanis Club of Alameda [3] received the Social Justice award for its wide-ranging programs supporting children, youth, and families. Alamedan Jeramie Andehueson received a Local Hero award for his organization of the annual Alameda Pride weekend [4].
Alameda Family Services was recognized as Nonprofit of the Year, Buena Vista Methodist Church received the Community Peace Award, Village of Love [5] was named Outstanding Organization of the Year, and the Alameda July 4th Parade [6] was honored as Arts and Festival of the Year.
A special Lifetime Achievement award was presented to the Reverend Michael Yoshii for his 32 years of inspirational leadership as pastor of Buena Vista Methodist Church, here in Alameda.