Assistance League of Diablo Valley Bestows Making A Difference Award

Assistance League^® of Diablo Valley has bestowed the Making A Difference Award to individuals who have made significant behind-the-scenes contributions that further the organization’s ability to support those in our community who are vulnerable. At the April regular meeting, Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s President Lesley Salo lauded two individuals who have devoted innumerable hours in bettering the chapter, specifically its properties. Their contributions reflect creative and proactive problem-solving strategies, which have always been delivered unselfishly and discreetly. Alex Smith and Lew Thompson share the Making A Difference Award for 2016-2017.

Over the years, Alex Smith’s contributions have included plumbing and electrical repair and replacement, as well as resolving lighting issues at the chapter house and annex. As for creating revenue at the chapter’s primary fundraiser, Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, located in Lafayette, Alex has researched and priced donated binoculars, tripods and clocks. Likewise, he suggested and implemented the “Gone Fishing,” event by evaluating and repairing rods, reels and tackle, yet another means of putting “Caring and Commitment into Action.”

Since 2007, Lew Thompson has applied his horticultural talents at Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop by renewing its planter boxes and removing fallen leaves and overgrown foliage. His improvement skills include periodically painting the dressing rooms, back porch steps and parking lot lanes. Lew had built a wooden box to conceal the thrift shop’s safe and installed a flexible, yellow safety post to guide members while backing out of the parking lot. Installing shelves in the thrift shop’s bookroom and helping with thrift shop inventory by no means complete Lew’s commitment.

Ms. Salo concluded the award presentation as she had presented it, with heartfelt thanks. A thunderous applause from member volunteers in attendance amplified the sentiment. While the ongoing and extensive contributions of both Alex Smith and Lew Thompson continue to “Make a Difference,” their sense of selflessness and humility makes an impact. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley, please visit this website: diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.