On Saturday, April 26, LuskinOIC celebrated the outstanding achievements of more than 100 talented adult and student volunteers who reached significant milestones, ranging from 100 to 3,500 hours of service. 

These dedicated hours were contributed through various activities, including assisting staff, spending time with patients, fundraising, and serving as board or committee members.

The event began with heartfelt testimonials from LuskinOIC researchers Dr. Jenna Wahbeh and Erika Hookasian, followed by a keynote speech from Director of Rehabilitation Chris Caron. Caron spoke about the profound impact of LuskinOIC’s volunteers, recognizing them as the backbone of the organization’s identity and mission.

Six awards were presented during the ceremony. The Family Volunteer of the Year Award went to Las Madrecitas and Las Niñas members Linda Gamero and her daughter, Agatha Hanson. The LuskinOIC Innovation Awards went to Educate2Elevate mentor Alex Kuncz and his mentee, Alicia Tam. The Adult Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Peter Ziegler, while the Youth Volunteer of the Year Award went to  Uriel Chavez.

To conclude the awards portion, Assistant Vice President Mary Beth Perrine presented the Exceptional Dedication and Commitment Award to Caryl Pettit for completing more than 3,500 volunteer hours and for her enduring support through the Charitable Children’s Guild and LA Cañada Flintridge Orthopaedic Guild. 

Perrine then delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude and admiration for all the volunteers and acknowledging their pivotal role in advancing LuskinOIC’s mission to promote health equity—one child at a time.

‍