Music Director at Cordova High School, Kevin Sims (left), was awarded Rancho Cordovan of the Year by Rancho Cordova Councilmember David M. Sander, Ph.D. Photo by Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The 25th annual Community Volunteer Roundup, hosted by the Cordova Community Council, brought together residents to honor those who have selflessly dedicated their time and efforts to improving the Rancho Cordova community.

Emcee Ann Spade opened the evening by highlighting the exceptional honorees.

“Tonight’s honorees are hardworking volunteers building a great Rancho Cordova,” Spade said. “They were nominated by people in the community who noticed and appreciate their exceptional contributions. These individuals and organizations stand out not only for their service but for their commitment to inspiring others and advancing the values of volunteerism.”

The Outstanding Teen Service Award was presented to Cordova High School senior Valeria Aguilar, a young woman whose dedication to community service has set her apart as a role model for her peers. From her involvement in the Bigs and Littles Program to serving as president of the Interact Club, Valeria's service to others is extensive and deeply impactful.

The Outstanding Teen Service Award was presented to Cordova High School senior Valeria Aguilar. Photo by Rick Sloan

“I want to especially thank my mom, who has helped me become a better person. She is always there for me,” Aguilar said, as she accepted her award.

Blue Shield was honored with the Outstanding Community Business Partner Award for its commitment to volunteerism and corporate citizenship. Over the past year, 200 Blue Shield employees dedicated 16 hours of paid volunteer time each, contributing significantly to the Rancho Cordova Food Locker and Community Food Hub. These volunteers played an integral role in various operations, from packing groceries to greeting guests with kindness.

Here are members of Blue Shield and Rancho Cordova Food Locker partners, winners of the “Outstanding Business Partner” for extraordinary support of the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. Photo by Rick Sloan

“Blue Shield is honored to serve Rancho Cordova,” said a representative from the company. “We are proud to be part of this amazing community.”

The Food Locker representative added, “The dedication and impact of Blue Shield’s employees truly exemplify what it means to be a committed community partner.”

Longtime Cordova High School boys’ soccer coach Eric McCahon was presented with the Outstanding Service to Youth Award. Coach McCahon, who celebrated his 20th season with the team in 2023, is known not only for his coaching excellence but also for his commitment to molding student-athletes into responsible, compassionate individuals. His leadership has guided many players to college opportunities and his dedication extends beyond the field, helping students navigate complex challenges.

Longtime Cordova High School boys’ soccer coach Eric McCahon was presented with the Outstanding Service to Youth Award. Photo by Rick Sloan

“What an incredible honor,” McCahon said as he accepted the award. “It has been a privilege and an honor serving this community for 24 years as a teacher and 20 years as a head coach. This community has made me a better man, a better coach, and better educator.”

The Inspiring Rancho Cordova Award was presented to Madeline Sanderson, a mother of four and an active community leader. Despite a narrow defeat in her bid for public office, Sanderson’s passion for serving her community never wavered. She is involved in numerous organizations, from the Folsom Cordova Community Partnership to the Rancho Cordova Elementary School Site Council.

“It’s truly an honor to receive this award,” Sanderson said. “I love this city so much. I have seen us grow over the years and think we can do anything for our community by just showing up.”

The Inspiring Rancho Cordova Award was presented to Madeline Sanderson. Photo by Rick Sloan

Maxine Yoshida, in her 80s, was recognized with the Distinguished Community Service Award for her tireless work at the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. For more than a decade, Yoshida has helped transform the Food Locker into a critical resource, especially for the unhoused members of the community. Her creation of “Maxine’s Store,” which provides essential household items, has been a lifeline for many.

“I want to thank Rancho Cordova,” Yoshida said. “I love what I do and I help people out with items that they really can’t afford to buy.”

Rancho Cordova Food Locker award winner Maxine Yoshida (center) is surrounded by Food Locker supporters from left, Chris Wadja, Inez Shedd, Debra Holden and Executive Director Carrie Johnson. Photo by Rick Sloan

The “It Takes a Lincoln Village” organization was honored for its ongoing efforts to improve the Lincoln Village neighborhood. Through community-building events and neighborhood improvement initiatives, the group has fostered a stronger sense of connection among residents.

“We would like to thank everyone who works toward this vision of really engaging with the community and bridging the gap between the city and the community,” said an organization representative. “Here’s to another 10 years.”

Shown are members of It Takes a Lincoln Village, winners of the “Distinguished Community Service Organization” award. Photo by Rick Sloan

The Volunteers in Partnership with the Sheriff’s Department (VIPS) were recognized for their invaluable service to the Rancho Cordova Police Department and Sacramento County Sheriff's Department. Since 1993, VIPS have devoted thousands of hours annually to supporting law enforcement and assisting the community with various services.

“We want to thank the City of Rancho Cordova,” said a VIPS spokesperson. “We can’t do it without the management staff of the Rancho Cordova Police Department. It’s about giving back to the community.”

Pictured are members of Volunteers in Partnership with the Sheriff (VIIPS) winners of “We Could Not Have Done It Without You.” Photo by Rick Sloan

The night’s highest honor, Rancho Cordovan of the Year, was presented to Kevin Sims, the music director at Cordova High School. For the past 30 years, Sims has dedicated his life to shaping the lives of thousands of students through music. His leadership of the school’s music program has resulted in more than 30 trophies and recognition at competitions, but more importantly, he has created a space where students can grow, connect and find belonging.

“Thank you, Cordova Community Council, for this wonderful honor,” Sims said. "I love this city. Our musicians are known for their kindness and excellence, and they take pride in being Rancho Cordova kids.”

The evening was a testament to the spirit of community and the remarkable individuals who make Rancho Cordova a great place to live, work and volunteer. Their collective contributions continue to shape the city for the better, one act of service at a time.