Community Leaders Honor Marin Nonprofit

NOVATO, CA — A Marin nonprofit that’s provided scholarships to around 300 local student-athletes is shutting its doors, and several prominent community leaders want you to know about NovatoSpirit's contributions.

The group last week announced plans to shutter its administrative offices at the end of the year.

“During the past 18 years, we’ve served about 300 children in need with athletic scholarships, helping them to strengthen their health through their own efforts in sports,” the group said in a statement announcing the program’s closure.

Shutting down program this year will maximize funding for current participants, who are on course to earn their scholarships June 30, 2023, the group said in a statement.

The group said any remaining funds will be transferred to Hooves for Harmony, a NovatoSpirit partner horse-therapy program, and Morning Star Vaulters, an equestrian vaulting program. Both nonprofits serve Bay Area children in need.

“Athletics can teach us that we don’t need a lot of fancy stuff. All we need is an exceptional teacher who can show us how to tap into the strengths of our own bodies, brains, and heart,” NovatoSpirit Founder and Executive Director Marian Huntington said in a statement.

“I’m going to continue helping children in-need and those with disabilities at Hooves for Harmony, our partner horse-therapy program. And I’ll continue to advocate for families living in poverty.”

Huntington’s contribution to Marin youth was described by Marin County Superintendent of Schools Mary Jane Burke as a “incredible achievement.”

“Imagine the lives changed by the great support you and NovatoSpirit have provided to our vulnerable children over the past 18 years,” Marin’s top educator said.

“An incredible achievement. Thank you so much Marian for working so hard and caring so deeply.”

Marin County District Attorney Lori Frugoli said Huntington’s contributions haven’t fully been realized.

“Thank you for all you have done for our community Marian…I have met some beautiful families due to your program and it is a joy to see them thriving (in college!) thanks to your leadership,” Frugoli said.

“Can’t wait to see how many future leaders you have touched and influenced with your program.”
The Marin County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution honoring Huntington and the California State Legislature and awarded her Certificate of Recognition.

U.S. Congressman Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael) awarded Huntington a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.

“Marian has provided hundreds of low-income pediatric patients with 5-year sports scholarships, supporting better health outcomes and building leadership and teamwork skills,” Huffman said.

“This opportunity has been life-changing for many children and exemplifies her dedication to confronting inequity and poverty in Marin County.”