With over 2,000 people in attendance, the UAV’s “Caring for the Community” event was a huge success!

LANCASTER, CA – The University of Antelope Valley continued to show its commitment to our community, by hosting the 8th Annual “Caring for the Community” event on Saturday December 13th, 2014 at UAV’s Sierra Hwy campus. Started by UAV founders, Marco and Sandra Johnson, Caring for the Community had humble beginnings, as the Johnson family distributed flyers throughout our community themselves, drawing approximately 20 - 30 people in attendance in its first year. This year, not only were there over 2,000 people in attendance and over 2,500 toys distributed, but the Johnsons’ continue to play an active role in the event.

“This year’s Caring for the Community exceeded all of our expectations! Everybody lent a helping hand, as there were over 100 volunteers, staff members, students and athletes, that showed their community support. UAV’s Student Council distributed over 400 articles of clothing; including jackets, jeans, hats, gloves and other winter wear,” said UAV Banquet Manager Pam Mazor.

However, catering to the needs of our community is a daunting task, had it not been for the support of local leaders within our community. City leaders, members of our community and our local sheriff’s department, were all working side by side toward a common goal. Lancaster Vice Mayor, Marvin Crist, and Councilman Ken Mann, personally donated 300 brand new coats to those in need. Newly elected Congressman Steve Knight donated bags of toys for our local children, along with the Lancaster JetHawks organization, who donated toys as well.

Not only did families in need receive much needed clothing, but they were also served a holiday meal with all the trimmings. Mazor went onto say, “It was a wonderful day all around, but the most memorable thing for me was seeing the joy on the parents’ and children's faces, as they sat with Santa and received their gifts. Whether it was a doll or a bike, the way the children’s faces lit up was so inspiring, and I think we all walked away that day feeling the true holiday spirit.”

The Johnsons’, however, were not alone in their quest to serve our community, as local organizations like Walmart, Toys for Tots, the Lancaster Sheriff’s department and many others, were eager to chip in and play an integral part in this year’s success.

More Photos at: http://uav.edu/index.aspx?page=28&recordid=571&returnURL=%2findex.aspx