Malibu Council Selects 2019 Citizenship Award Winners

MALIBU, CA — The Malibu City Council selected Kasey Earnest and Steve Hotchkiss to receive the 2019 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award during the Monday night City Council meeting.

The Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award has been presented every year since 2002 to recognize "outstanding individuals who give their time and resources to enhance the quality of recreation programs within the Malibu community," the City of Malibu press release said.

"Every year, it is truly impressive to see the nominees for the Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award and the incredible variety of ways that so many residents of Malibu have given back to help the environment, those less fortunate, animals, schools, public safety, the list goes on and on," said Mayor Pro Tem Karen Farrer. "On behalf of Malibu, thank you and congratulations to Kasey and Steve for all that you do."

Kasey Earnest has worked for the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu for 15 years — first as the Program Director and later as the Executive Director. She oversees the recreational programming and afterschool programs at local elementary schools and the Teen Center at Malibu High School, the City said.

Earnest helped in the expansion of the Wellness Center at Malibu High School, the press release said. She worked to support struggling community members during and after the Woolsey Fire, including fundraising, family assistance, family financial support, mental wellness sessions and various other services that have contributed to individuals’ and the community’s recovery.

Steve Hotchkiss is a parent, volunteer coach and board member with the Malibu Seawolves Swim organization. He has been a part of the Malibu aquatic community for more than 30 years and has mentored numerous local athletes as a volunteer and through his professional career as a Los Angeles County Lifeguard, the press release said.

The award will be presented to the recipients at the May 28 City Council meeting.