The volunteer efforts by a local group of women were recognized by the Volunteer Center of Sonoma County at its 34th Annual Volunteer banquet held April 11 at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel in Santa Rosa. The Valley of the Moon Children’s Auxiliary received the prestigious award: “2007 Volunteer of the Year Serving Youth.”
Better know as the Cha-Chas, the group consists of 25 Sonoma Valley residents who, for more than four years, provided support, educational and cultural enrichment programs and activities for The Valley of the Moon Children’s Home, and are credited by executive director, Jo Weber for making a tremendous difference in the lives of the children by bringing joy, offering enrichment and providing support in a positive and energetic manner.
“I hope the Cha Chas plan on being part of the program for many years to come,” said Weber.
Cha Chas president Sharon Cohn said, “We started out just as a group of friends.”
“Many of us were active in local charity and fund raising groups. About five years ago we decided to offer on-going volunteer programs to the Children’s Home. It’s been a wonderful experience for all of us.”
The Cha Chas take groups on field trips and cultural enrichment journeys to museums and concerts. The women have organized movie nights and sporting activities such as bowling and swimming parties. In partnership with the onsite school staff, the Cha Chas have initiated activities designed to increase a child’s knowledge of the world, living skills and self esteem.
“We have a teen book club and cooking classes, said Cha Chas’ member Marchelle Carleton. “These activities are not only fun but will help the Valley of the Moon children develop skills to enable them to mature into self-reliant adults.”
The Valley of the Moon Children’s Home is a 24-hour emergency shelter for abused and abandoned children from newborn to late teens.
“We create activities for children as young as 2 years to as old as 18,” said Cohn. “That takes some planning and effort, but it’s so fulfilling to give the attention and love children like these so desperately need.”
The Volunteer Center of Sonoma County is the county’s largest service group that bestows awards on individuals, groups and businesses that have made a valuable contribution to the betterment and welfare of Sonoma County residents. Joining the Cha-Chas in receiving volunteer awards this year was Agilent Technologies and The Toolbox Project of Mark Collin.
