Sausage, eggs and bacon weren’t the only things being served up at the 20th Annual American Red Cross Real Heroes Breakfast on Wednesday, October 5, honors, awards and accolades were also on the menu.
Each year local firefighters, emergency workers, company leaders and Red Cross representatives gather to celebrate local heroes for their courage, compassion and leadership.
“It’s amazing to see different sectors of our community coming together who represent different branches of government, service, and military, all coming together to love their neighbor and do what’s right for the common good,” said NBC Anchor Monica Dean. “These heroes don’t ask if they all believe the same or all look the same they just do what is right, when it’s needed.”
The ceremony, that takes place on the USS Midway Museum and is emceed each year by Monica Dean, honors individuals for acts of bravery, dedication and service to the community, and this year SDG&E Electric Operations Vice President, John Jenkins presented the Youth Hero award to 12-year old Bianca Villalobos.
“Bianca, your humanitarian work in the community is truly incredible,” said SDG&E’s John Jenkins. “Your hard work and volunteerism and advocacy is absolutely making a difference and has impacted so many lives already. And, with the example of you as a young leader, our future is very bright.”
Bianca, who is a Girl Scout and Youth Ambassador for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the American Diabetes Association, received her award for demonstrating courage, initiative and compassion in the spirit of the American Red Cross due to her service to individuals and the welfare of our region.
“I would like to thank my friends and family for supporting me with everything that I do,” said Bianca in her short and sweet acceptance speech.
“We were honored to present Bianca with the Youth Hero award for her dedication to bringing greater awareness and understanding of Type 1 diabetes to the public while making a positive difference in the community,” added Jenkins.
A video showcasing SDG&E’s partnership with the America Red Cross was also played at the ceremony and can be viewed on SDG&E’s YouTube channel.
If you are interested in nominating a Real Hero to be honored at next year’s awards ceremony, you can gather nomination guidelines and award requirements here.
