On June 18th, 2015 The Blue Heart Foundation held its inaugural President volunteer award and scholarship dinner. The purpose of this dinner is to acknowledge the dedication and drive of the members of the Blue Heart Foundation’s mentoring program HEART (Higher Education And Rising Together) as they work to improve the quality of life of themselves as well as all. These young men are the driving force for many successful community clean-ups, programs and events. Each volunteer does not work for recognition; however, we find it very important to do so because everyone should be acknowledge for the positive and great work that they do. If we don’t celebrate them, who will?
Isaiah Coleman Gold Level Award recipient – Photo courtesy of Joanne Fields
Presidential recognition sets you apart from your peers… It is a tremendous honor. Even though they may not seek recognition, their example can deliver a powerful message that encourages others to take action. At this year’s program Isaiah Coleman was presented with the Presidents Volunteer Service’s Gold Award which is given to volunteers that have served over 100 service hours within a one year period. Isaiah Coleman stated, “I am proud to volunteer and serve my community. I enjoy giving back because is not only the right thing to do but I want to be a productive citizen. Us, youth usually are said to be lazy and stuck on social media and video games all day. “
Bernard Richardson and his Mom Umoja – Photo courtesy of Joanne Fields
Bernard Richardson was awarded with a Silver Level Presidents Volunteer Service award which is given to individuals with over 75 hrs of volunteer service in a one year period. Bernard’s mother beamed proudly saying “The Blue Heart Foundation has been a constant pulling force of positivity in these young men’s lives. In a time filled with senseless violence and negativity for African American males it is refreshing to have a commitment to academic excellence and community service keeping our young men busy. I am an actively involved mother yet there are limitations to showing my son how to be a “Good, Successful” young man, Tracy Morris and the Blue Heart Foundation have filled that void for my son. ”
Jordan Humphries $500 book grant recipient – Photo courtesy of Joanne Fields
Next came the scholarship portion of the event where Jordan Humphries was presented with a $500 book grant and will be studying at the Los Angeles College of Music. Jordan Humphries is an instrumental musician serving as a Percussionist, drum major, and mentor for the Heartbeat Music Academy’s Thunder Squad Drumline. We are honored to be able to send him off to college so that he may pursue his dreams!
We want to be sure to thank both the San Diego’s Black Police Officer Association and Rickena Mills for their contributions along with Officer Art Scott for saying a few words of encouragement to our future leaders. We want to thank Bourres Southern Bistro for their hospitality, wonderful service and delicious meal. Each and every person left satisfied as we dined on a delicious specialized menu that was lined up just for this event. Kudos goes out to the Bourre staff. Last but not certainly not least we want to be sure to thank all the parents and community supporters. Without your support there would be no HEART of Blue Heart Foundation. Tracy Morris proudly exclaimed “I am so full of joy, pride and thankfulness that these wonderful people trust me with their most precious gift… their children
Congratulations Jordan Humphries, Isaiah Coleman and Bernard Richardson as this years book grant and award recipients – Photo courtesy of Joanne Fields
