Suzanne Lee
By Callie Thomas
The long running TV drama “Touched by An Angel” chronicled the many stories in which caseworker and angel Monica is tasked with bringing guidance to various people who are at a crossroads in their lives. The Las Vegas community is lucky to call real life mentor and guide, 89135 resident Suzanne Lee, among its many angels that touch and enlighten the lives of our youth.
Armed with an M.S. of Public Administration from Carnegie Mellon University, Suzanne (Susie) began her career as a political consultant within the community and held the position of Director of the MASH (Mobilized Assistance and Shelter for the Homeless) Crisis Intervention Center. She later became the Founding Executive Director of the After-School All-Stars which provides comprehensive out-of-school programs that keep children safe and help them achieve in school and in life.
The group provides at risk youth with opportunities to participate in sports, educational, cultural and community enrichment programs. “I chose the After-School All-Stars because I was a student-athlete as a child and young adult,” says Lee. “As a young woman, I had the benefit of being touched by important mentors in my life—coaches, teachers and people who gave me that helping hand. Without their help and guidance, I would not have been able to achieve my goals as a young adult.”
Susie grew up as one of eight children in a single income family and was the beneficiary of a helping hand many times as she grew up. “One mentor helped me to get through college. His name was Bob Casey and his only request was that when I was older and successful that I would help someone else and pay it forward.”
Perhaps one of the most influential reasons that Lee continues to be involved in the After-School All-Stars is because of the many children’s success stories she has witnessed. This includes a sixth grader named Sue Owens. Susie and her husband assisted the young girl in realizing her potential outside of the program. After more than a decade the couple lost touch with her. While visiting Wendell Williams Elementary School through another organization, the Nevada Women’s Philanthropy, she recognized one of the teachers. “I thought I had met her at the school during a previous visit. I heard someone call this teacher Ms. Owens. Immediately I realized it was Sue. She was now a student teacher. She had worked against incredible odds, got an education and was now teaching in her own community. That was very meaningful to me.”
Through the group, she has enjoyed participating in the Century Ride in the RTC’s Viva Bike Vegas which benefits the organization as well as Nevada Cancer Institute. The event being held on October 9 features courses for cyclists of all skill levels. And Century Riders like Susie will enjoy a one-of-a-kind route that features a historic ride across the nearly completed Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge, before it’s open to automobile traffic. “I have done the bike ride for the last three years,” she said. “I’ve conducted my own sponsorship drive from which I raised over $20,000!”
After three years with the organization, Susie decided to “back burner” her career and spend more time raising her two children Nevie and Cody with husband Dan. “We are committed to fostering the growth of our children into loving, fun, smart and adventurous people,” she said.
Lee continues to support the After-School All-Stars as a member of the Board of Directors. She has also become the President Elect of Nevada Women’s Philanthropy, is a board member of the Southern Nevada Desert Mermaids, serves as a Junior Girl Scout Leader, and is a member of the Superintendent’s Educational Opportunities Advisory Committee.
Suzanne Lee is eager to lend an inspirational hand to help others. “In life we are all going up or down the ladder and need a helping hand at some point. I am in the position to provide that help now and am happy to do it.”
For more information on RTC”s Viva Bike Vegas, visit www.vivabikevegas.com. To learn about the After-School All-Stars, visit www.asaslv.org.
Lisa Caterbone
By Callie Thomas
“A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.”
– Chinese Philosopher Lao-tzu
Wind. Speed. Heart rate. Being in the moment. All essential thoughts that draw cyclists back to the road again and again. Resident Lisa Caterbone eats, breathes and sleeps cycling…and the internet. Imagine her excitement when Lisa discovered a way to merge her passion for cycling and love of the information superhighway. Like peanut butter and chocolate, it turned into a match made in heaven. The local web designer and internet marketing expert succeeded in creating an online resource for bicycle enthusiasts that not only covers everything and anything about cycling in Las Vegas, but provides a place of inspiration for health and fitness and introduces ways to help raise awareness and resources for local charities. “I started BikingLasVegas.com because I built so many websites for my clients that I wanted to use my knowledge to build a site that would allow me to give back to the community,” Caterbone said. “Cycling was instrumental in helping me achieve my personal goals, and I wanted others to see how fun it was and to encourage others to bicycle for happiness and health.”
Prior to the cycling website, the owner of netMouser.com had gained 35 pounds and wanted to lose some weight and get in shape. Bicycling not only helped her to lose the extra weight but to feel great too. “I thought that starting the website would be good for others to get more involved in bicycling, meet fellow cyclists and to make a life commitment to stay healthy and fit.” The website quickly evolved into a resource for upcoming rides and events, bicycling safety, maintenance and repair, bike handling, use of gears, road etiquette and key issues for bicycling in government. Members of her site have even influenced local agencies so that bike lanes have been re-painted. It has also become a place where Caterbone and others support local charities by promoting them for free on the site and by riding her bicycle in their events to raise money.
Lisa is currently working with the American Diabetes Association, the Las Vegas Cancer Foundation/Livestrong Ride, Special Olympics Pedal to the Medal Ride and the RTC Viva Bike Vegas. “I chose these events because the organizations do a lot to help those who have been affected with disease or life challenges, both locally and nationally.”
While she is wildly enthusiastic in her support of these worthy organizations, there is one that remains closest to her heart–the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s BikeMS. “My mother was diagnosed with MS in the 80s and I’ve always wanted to help make a difference and knew this event was right up my alley,” she said.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Las Vegas BikeMS ride which takes place over two days and 200 miles in November. The ride helps support programs, services and research by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society that make a difference to the people who face the daily challenges of living with MS. “Last year I organized a team for both the BikeMS and the Tour de Cure (which benefits the American Diabetes Association). Our team was the number one fundraiser in all of Nevada for BikeMS and the number two fundraising team for the Henderson Tour de Cure.” Caterbone obviously has a knack for motivating fellow cyclists and forming bicycling teams to make a difference–her BikingLasVegas.com team raised over $20,000 for the BikeMS last year.
Lisa Caterbone is an eternal optimist and shares that spirit with those around her. “What I do today will make an impression on me and anyone around me tomorrow. I live my life knowing that and respect everyone around me. By staying positive about life, I know it will always work out.”
Dr. Lisa Marie Lyons
By Callie Thomas
“There is nothing certain in a man’s life but that he must lose it.” – Owen Meredith
Throughout our lives we strive for understanding and respect. When we are faced with meeting the end of it, we seek the same. Resident Dr. Lisa Marie Lyons works every day with patients and their families to provide guidance and quality end-of-life care.
Lyons earned her degree in Clinical Laboratory Medicine from the University of Nevada School of Medicine. She eventually worked in the laboratory at UMC and the VA in Reno and went back to school to become a physician. “I decided to pursue becoming a physician because I very much enjoyed the contact with patients, particularly at the VA,” says Lyons. “I attended the University of Nevada Reno School of Medicine and had my residency at UMC in Internal Medicine.” She is proud of her accomplishments in becoming a doctor, particularly having finished medical school as a single parent of son Cameron. Today, she is Senior Director of Medical Affairs at Nathan Adelson Hospice, the largest nonprofit hospice in Nevada and one of the first founded in the nation. “It is a privilege to work at a hospice that is known as a trusted partner in the community and has provided care for patients and their loved ones for more than 30 years,” she said.
Nathan Adelson was a beloved hospital administrator who was known to care deeply for both his patients and employees. After enduring a long and painful battle with stomach cancer, Mr. Adelson passed away, but friends and family members realized the need for healthcare specific to pain management and responded to that need. Nathan Adelson Hospice became the first home care hospice to provide patients and loved ones with comprehensive end-of-life care and has influenced better care throughout the community. The facility honors the choices made by those who are ill and provides patients with both comfort and dignified care. “I love my job and believe that hospice care truly brings comfort to the patient and families. I have a wonderful family and a great team I work with at Nathan Adelson Hospice. The team mentality allows individuals to be successful while improving the care of our community,” she said.
Outside of her duties as Senior Director of Medical Affairs, Dr. Lyons is involved with fundraising efforts which are hosted annually by the hospice, including its signature Flair for Care Fashion Show and Luncheon, which featured spectacular designer looks and raised $600,000 this past April. She also supports the annual Wine Tasting Extravaganza, which will be held this October 14th. This event includes wine and food sampling from some of the best restaurants in the city, with an auction and live entertainment adding to the festivities. “The fundraising activities at Nathan Adelson Hospice help bring home the point to the community that we are here for them, support them and will always be their partner.”
Dr. Lyons also makes time to reach out in other ways. She is the current president of the University of Nevada School of Medicine Alumni Association and a past council member of the University of Nevada Reno. “We provide scholarships to medical students, funding for missionary trips and reconnect school alumnus.” She is also passionate about our four-legged neighbors and is a member of the ASPCA and donates to the Southern Nevada Pug Rescue and Lied Animal Foundation. Lyons also donates her time to her church, Central Christian, and is working on becoming a gallon blood donor.
On her down time, Dr. Lyons can be found tending to her organic garden with husband Jeffrey Maloney as well as enjoying her son, four stepchildren and four grandchildren. She is committed to continuing to helping others throughout the community. “It is very important to serve the community that serves you. I see service as a part of everyday life.”
Jennifer Morss
By Callie Thomas
“Well-behaved women seldom make history.” – Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
The work of Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Laurel Thatcher Ulrich, which centers on the history of women, has been described as a tribute to the silent work of ordinary people. Resident Jennifer Morss not only relates to the author’s observation, but is an active proponent of conveying the idea that anyone can make a difference.
In 1999, a television special on HIV/AIDS was the influencing factor that motivated Morss to get involved. “I learned of individuals with HIV, dying alone in hospital beds without any friends and family around them,” she said. “At that moment, I decided to become involved and affect change in the treatment of HIV positive individuals by working to decrease HIV related stigma and discrimination.” She completed HIV educators training through the American Red Cross and volunteered as an HIV Prevention Educator in detention and drug recovery facilities.
“While I loved working as a volunteer, I still had not met anyone who was HIV positive, nor was there the feeling that the work was ultimately diminishing the existing stigma for these individuals,” says Morss, who eventually moved to Las Vegas in 2001 and began working at AFAN (Aid for AIDS of Nevada) as the Project UpFront coordinator. Since that time, she has held a range of positions including Director of Programs, Director of Operations and Associate Director. Morss currently holds the position of Executive Director for AFAN. She has described her work as “life changing.”
AFAN advocates for both adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in Southern Nevada. The group works to reduce HIV infection through prevention education to eliminate fear, prejudice and the stigma associated with the disease. Project UpFront incorporates a group of HIV positive speakers that communicate prevention messages throughout the community. The program targets students and community agencies working with high risk youth and young adults. The interactive program features a panel of presentations where HIV positive individuals tell their personal stories about living with HIV/AIDS and answers questions about their lives and past risk behaviors. “The amazing, talented and courageous individuals of the Project UpFront program taught me many things about appreciating life and taking time to enjoy the journey–life lessons that impact me to this day.”
Perhaps one of the most important AFAN events in which Jennifer has been involved is the annual AIDS Walk Las Vegas. She has been involved with the planning and execution of the event for the past nine years. Morss has witnessed the event’s growth from less than 1,000 walkers to more than 8,500 walkers. The event raised more than $500,000 last April. “I am forever humbled by the overwhelming support we’ve received for this event, and I’ve enjoyed planning every single walk.”
In addition to her duties as Executive Director of AFAN, Jennifer has also served as the Vice President of the Southern Nevada Coalition of HIV/AIDS Service Providers for the last six years. “I’m passionate about advocacy,” she said. “I chose to participate with the organization because of their strong advocacy efforts for people surviving with HIV/AIDS.”
Jennifer Morss is honored to do what she can for the HIV community of Southern Nevada. She aspires to see the day when a cure and a vaccine for HIV are realized and when she will never lose another friend to the HIV disease. She is also looking forward to graduating from the Master’s of Health Communications Program from Boston University. All the while, in whatever capacity Morss is working, she motivates others to lend a helping hand. “When people ask me ‘how do I make a difference?’ my answer is GET INVOLVED. Whatever your passion is, find a way to get involved, because together we make a difference.”
Kristy & Jack Littauer
By Callie Thomas
It has been said that you are what you eat, and particularly for those afflicted with extreme food allergies, what you eat can be a life or death proposition. According to the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, more than 12 million Americans have food allergies, and experts say the numbers are rising. The incident is highest among young children—about three million children in the U.S. have food allergies. Even a mere trace of a food allergen can cause a reaction, and most are due to something they thought was safe.
Resident Kristy Littauer and her four year old son Jack are all too familiar with food allergies. It is something Kristy, her husband Fred and their daughter Lianna have become knowledgeable about after discovering Jack’s food allergies. “Jack was just an infant when we found out he has severe food allergies,” says Kristy. “After going through the normal ‘green’ baby food, I decided to add some variety and give him creamed spinach. He took a few bites and started wheezing and his neck and chest broke into hives. I called 911 and he was rushed to the emergency room and treated for food induced anaphylaxis.”
That was the first of three other near-fatal episodes that young Jack has endured. Although the family has become hyper-vigilant about the foods that are given to him to eat, dining in a restaurant proved another terrifying experience. “When we were out to dinner with friends, I brought food from home for Jack,” Littauer said. “But the other kids were getting ice cream for dessert and he wanted a treat too. I saw that there was sorbet on the menu so I asked the server if she could check to see if the sorbet had dairy in it. I made it very clear that my son is deathly allergic to dairy.” Needless to say, while the server had checked with the kitchen to ensure that it did not, the child only had a few bites of it before he stopped breathing and was rushed to the hospital, landing in ICU. “We found out after the ordeal that the restaurant was out of sorbet so she served him sherbet which is made with milk.”
Kristy has devoted herself to helping her child, as well as others with food allergies by joining the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN). A nonprofit organization, FAAN’s mission is to raise public awareness, provide advocacy and education, and to advance research for those suffering from food allergies. “FAAN gave me resources and knowledge to feel empowered over Jack’s condition,” Kristy said. She is also an active member of Food Allergy Parent Education, a local parent support group. “Along with other volunteers, we organized the first annual fundraising walk. More than 600 walkers attended, and the event raised over $40,000. This year’s event will be held on September 25 at the District.” She is also grateful to the National Jewish Medical Center in Denver where they were able to get additional information about Jack’s allergies. The family helped the center create a video on food allergies which was used in a recent fundraising event with proceeds going to research.
Kristy Littauer is determined to continue giving her time, knowledge and understanding to help others improve their lives. “If our experiences and knowledge can save one life, make one family’s life easier or raise money to find a cure for this condition, I will work tirelessly to do it.” For more information on FAAN, visit www.foodallergy.org. To join in on the September walk, visit www.foodallergywalk.org/lasvegas_NV10.
Patty Charlton
By Callie Thomas
Every success begins with a good foundation. Which is why every student that aspires to reach their educational goals, can be thankful for the efforts of 89012 resident Patty Charlton. Patty is in the business of providing students with the educational opportunities to be successful. She puts her financial wizardry into motion to help bring about the necessary programs, resources and inspirational teachers and mentors that guide our students and provide the quality education that breeds future success.
Patty Charlton discovered her knack for the financial side of business as a student herself, having attended the College of Southern Nevada (formerly known as Clark County Community College) where she received an Associate’s degree in Business Management. She later attended UNLV and received a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems and eventually a Master’s in Public Administration. “During my college years, I worked in the banking industry and found that I had a real interest in finance and associated fields,” says Charlton. “I began working at the college and during that time have worked in the finance area in a variety of positions.” Those positions included working her way up from Administrative Assistant and Budget Director to her current position as the college’s Senior Vice President for Finance & Facilities.
Charlton has gained valuable experiences through her work, which has provided her with the opportunity to interact with the faculty, staff, students, community, legislators and the CSN Foundation. “I have been able to see firsthand the wonderful programs we teach, student demand for education and the outcome of our teachers and motivators that inspire our students on a daily basis,” she said.
As an administrator, Patty has an ongoing involvement with the CSN Foundation, which is comprised of business and community leaders and supports student programs at the college, as well as secures donations, equipment to build classrooms, laboratories, auditoriums and academic buildings. The foundation recently funded over $1 million dollars for new scholarships and programs at CSN.
Charlton also lends her skills in organizing and assisting the group’s special events such as the Great Steak Out, an evening of select delicacies and wines to raise funds for students in the hospitality program, as well as the Annual Golf Tournament which will be held this November. Participants have an opportunity to play with celebrity baseball greats such as Greg Maddux, Aaron Rowand, Mike Dunn and Steve Garvey to raise funds for the foundation. “Through the annual CSN Golf Tournament we have been able to actively participate in support of Inter-Collegiate Athletics at CSN,” says Charlton. “The college receives no public support for this program, and operations are dependent on private and other resources.” As a result, the college has a men’s baseball program and women’s softball team where student athletes have historically been from local high schools who have shown academic excellence in the classroom and on the field.
One of the foundation’s programs that Charlton is particularly proud of is the introduction of the Justin Bailey Scholarship. “Justin was a veteran and son of one of the CSN family who passed away at a young age. We established a scholarship in his name that was generated through donations that benefit veterans who are returning to school.”
Patty Charlton is the proud mother of daughter Taylor, and when she isn’t influencing the future of others, she is excited about her new hobby—learning to golf. Charlton also looks forward to furthering her own education by pursuing a Ph.D. at UNLV. As a former and future student, she identifies and rejoices in the successes of the CSN students. “I look forward every year to the graduation ceremony where hundreds and hundreds of students walk across the stage, accept their diploma and sharing in the experience of their great accomplishment.”
Stephanie A. MacKenzie
By Callie Thomas
She’s bright, bubbly and has a killer voice that wakes up listeners every weekday morning on 97.1 The Point. She’s Stephanie (Steph) MacKenzie, 89148 neighbor and half of the morning show duo known as Foxx and MacKenzie. You’ll find our favorite rocker girl within the community hosting and emceeing station events, but she can also be found at the heart of dozens of charitable causes that help those in need.
Steph has a need…for speed. The huge sports fan (particularly the Oakland Raiders) is also an avid motorcycle enthusiast as well as the dedicated local spokesperson for the Speedway Children’s Charities organization. Getting involved was a quick decision. Helping others has been an important part of MacKenzie’s life from the time she was a child herself. “As a little girl I volunteered at nursing homes. When I was in a sorority in college we had to be involved with activities outside of school that would help the community, and I just loved it.”
The Las Vegas chapter of the Speedway Children’s Charities has since distributed more than $1.7 million in funding to an unending list of children’s organizations in Southern Nevada. Funding is raised through special events held during the year and includes the NASCAR Driver Auction, Mel Larson Night of Champions, Golf Tournament, NHRA ‘Cards for Kids’ Poker Tournament and WNFR Celebrity Bowling Tournament. “My involvement came out of my love for NASCAR and witnessing what the drivers, owners and the NASCAR family does in Vegas for local children’s charities,” Stephanie said. “I was asked to emcee their Christmas event where they distribute the funds to all the charities. To see the kid’s eyes light up because their programs were going to continue was overwhelming.”
While MacKenzie is involved with a number of other organizations, including Ronald McDonald House, Best Buddies, Positively Kids, United Blood Service and Lied Animal Shelter to name just a few, one that is near to her heart is the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. “Ten years ago I embarked on an experience unlike anything I had ever known. I had never had a family member affected by cancer nor was it a threat to my family, but it was to friends and society. I saw a sisterhood of women from all walks of life and miracles that happened right before my eyes and knew I wanted to be a part of that magic.” She recruited everyone and anyone to come to the cancer walk and while they donated, not all wanted to walk for the fundraiser, so she created an event called “Save the Boobs” and got the motorcycle community involved. Thinking there was still more she could do, she paired local celebrities with the Hard Rock Café to create an event called “Pinktober.” “We were able to get local boutiques involved along with the local celebrities and cancer survivors for a night of fun and fashion while raising money,” Steph said.
The busy local celeb is also a Board Member at New Vista Ranch for their Annual Adam and Eve Charity Love Fling, an auction of eligible bachelors and bachelorettes to raise funds. The New Vista Ranch is a home for young adults with mental disabilities. The program helps to educate the public and show the community that these youth are able bodied workers and part of the community. “They have a love of life that is refreshing and makes you want to be a better person,” she said.
The little down time Stephanie MacKenzie has is spent with the love of her life, husband Brad, their two canine kids, Valkyrie and Dizel, and making a difference by giving back. “I hope to always lead by example and help change lives every time I’m out in the community.”
Vic Miera
By Callie Thomas
Great things can happen when the wheels of imagination are put into motion, particularly when creativity lends itself to communicating important messages on behalf of essential organizations that advocate for those in need. Resident Vic Miera has put his imagination and resources to the task and has assisted many organizations to benefit children in our community.
Inspiration first came to the optimistic, yet laid back Miera when he was in high school, where an influential teacher, Mrs. Walker, pointed him in the direction that would later become a lifelong career. “She helped me apply for and receive a scholarship. I essentially won a design contest that allowed me to attend a Graphics/Design school in Salt Lake City,” he said. “While in school I focused on advertising more than design.” After moving to Vegas twenty-six years ago to work at what is now known as R&R Partners, Vic discovered he really enjoyed teaching and paid it forward by imparting his knowledge at Community College of Southern Nevada. After opening his own award winning agency, V2 Creative, a full service advertising agency specializing in gaming and entertainment, Miera and his team embarked on several projects that not only propelled the company brand but provided essential marketing assistance for charitable organizations like the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth (NPHY).
For the past thirteen years, Miera has been an honorary board member of the organization that is the only youth service provider in Nevada offering a range of care, from street outreach and 24-hour crisis intervention services to full-time drop-in center and an independent living program. In addition to inspiring individuals to donate to the program, he and his team helped to develop the brand message, including collateral elements such as invitations to special fundraising events. “I have always been touched and inspired to do more for the teens from NPHY. Their stories show so much courage and motivation to succeed even though their circumstances could have taken them in another direction,” Vic said. “I think it is very important to give back to the community and by working with NPHY, it enables me to do just that.”
Miera has also been instrumental in supporting the Tooth Fairy Council of Nevada, an awareness campaign to promote dental health for children. He and his team have also provided their artistic talents to create ads and collateral pieces for Kids Voting USA, the greater Las Vegas chapter. The nonprofit, nonpartisan, national organization works with schools and communities to enhance civics education and provide students with an authentic voting experience which encourages youth to be engaged in the voting process when they become adults.
When he’s not assisting organizations in the community, Vic can be found on the open road, racing and touring as an avid cyclist. Miera stays in tip top shape by cycling every day and covering between 275 and 300 miles a week. He rides for the Allegiant Airlines Cycling Team and holds the Australian Masters Road Champion title in Time Trials and recently took the California/Nevada Master Time Trial title. He’s proud of his accomplishments, which include being a father and grandfather, growing his business, achieving top awards for his cycling efforts and for keeping the wheels of inspiration open to giving back to the community. “I want to make a difference in my community and feel that by doing just even the simplest of things I can help someone else out.”
Holly Silvestri
By Callie Thomas
“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
What lies within 89135 resident Holly Silvestri is hardly tiny. Holly’s heart is the size of Texas, full of generosity and hope, which is attested through her ongoing devotion to her family, including husband Rob and their identical twin daughters Ella and Olivia, as well as helping the youth of our community.
Once a newspaper reporter for a top daily in San Diego County, Silvestri decided to pursue a career in public relations and relocated to Las Vegas in 1998. She founded her own PR company and later merged that organization with The Ferraro Group, a statewide public relations and public affairs firm. Holly oversees the Las Vegas office and its operations, giving her a birds-eye view of the needs of our neighbors. “Being in the community a lot, whether it’s promoting our clients, coordinating marketing campaigns or attending events and fundraisers, has allowed me to view different aspects of the Las Vegas community,” says Silvestri. “I initially got involved with some of our clients’ charitable efforts and then embarked on my own as I saw that the various organizations needed further help, especially those that assist children.”
As a mother of two young girls, it seemed a natural inclination to become involved with the at-risk children who attend JT McWilliams Elementary School. After a client introduction, Silvestri began working with the school’s principal to provide student and school support, including scooter giveaways during math night, reading to children during Nevada Reading Week, and providing school and art supplies as well as much needed clothing with the help of members of her firm. “A lot of people are generous and donate clothes or toys to youths in need. But sometimes the basics are overlooked, like socks, underwear, food and toiletries,” she said. “Children’s faces light up when they see new art supplies in the classroom, but they also light up when they get basic necessities. We’ve dropped off bags of kids’ underwear and socks because it is heartbreaking when you hear some of these kids only have one pair each.”
Holly also gives of her time to assist medically delicate children through her involvement with the Foundation for Positively Kids. Founded in 1999, The Foundation for Positively Kids has provided an array of services and programs to meet the needs of medically dependent children and their families. The group dedicates all of its time, resources, staff, volunteers, nurses and donors to provide a positive environment for the growth and development of our community’s medically fragile and terminally ill children. “I’ve been involved with the Foundation for Positively Kids for several years as a board member and sit on the Community Action Committee,” Holly said.
She has also helped Help of Southern Nevada, a group that serves the poor, homeless and those in crisis, by donating holiday gifts to needy families, as well as being an avid supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association, as her grandmother had suffered from the disease.
Holly Silvestri believes part of her success is due to her support system at work and at home. “I have a very supportive husband. He’s my biggest cheerleader.” And while she aspires to grow her business as well as “get serious” about one of her other passions–writing children’s books–she looks forward to staying involved with her children and her work with charities. “It is rewarding to help those less fortunate. It allows you to put things in perspective and count your blessings. Wealth is all relative. Finding a child who appreciates the smallest things in life makes it all worthwhile.”
Kathy Maddux
By Callie Thomas
As the wife of a major league baseball pitcher–the first pitcher in history to win the Cy Young Award four years in a row–you might assume that 89113 resident Kathy Maddux knows a thing or two about America’s favorite pastime. But what you may not know is that one of her favorite pastimes is reaching out to children and families in need throughout our community.
The mother of daughter Paige and son Chase and wife of baseball great Greg Maddux is passionate about giving back. It started in 1990 when her husband was playing for the Chicago Cubs. “The player’s wives had an organization called Cub Wives for Family Rescue. I started volunteering and fundraising for a battered women’s shelter as part of the group,” says Maddux. “Upon returning to Vegas I started volunteering for Safe Nest.”
Safe Nest is a local shelter that advocates and promotes the eradication of domestic violence. It assists by providing confidential shelter, food, clothing, counseling, education and other services with the highest dignity and respect for its clients. “I started with training, helping in the office, answering phones and taking kids on mini field trips,” she said. Through those experiences she had the privilege of working with the Executive Director of the organization, Estelle Murphy, who influenced her desire to help the group further. “Many people don’t realize the different ways that Safe Nest helps our community. It is so much more than a shelter.” Kathy saw where the group needed additional assistance and became aware of other community organizations that needed support.
In 1993 she and her husband started The Maddux Foundation. “We wanted to give back to our community of Las Vegas and also the cities where Greg was playing baseball.” Kathy is President of the foundation, her husband Greg is Vice President and her sister and brother-in-law Kim and Ed Orci are board members. No one on the board is paid nor will be. Since its inception, the focus of the foundation has been to provide for a variety of charities. Most involve helping children. Safe Nest remains an important beneficiary of the foundation and others include Candlelighters, Child Haven and the Boys and Girls Club to name a few.
In 2006 Safe Nest approached Kathy and her husband to chair a capital campaign. The couple accepted and has been helping raise funds for a new building ever since. “I’ve learned so much as a chairperson for Safe Nest’s capital drive,” Maddux said. “I’ve met amazing people who want to give back to the community. It has been wonderful to be a part of an organization that is so dedicated. It has been very inspiring and makes me want to do even more to help others.”
When the opportunity to host a celebrity golf tournament with legendary golf instructor Butch Harmon arose, the answer was yes. Since its inception in 2001, the invitational has raised over $850,000 for The Maddux Foundation, and they anticipate raising over $1 million through this year’s event, which will be held on October 25 and 26. The program includes the golf tournament at Spanish Trail Country Club, a dinner and auction at the Venetian Resort Hotel, an instructional golf clinic with Butch Harmon and a whiffle ball challenge with Greg Maddux. “All of the proceeds from the tournament stay in Las Vegas for local charities,” Kathy said.
While Kathy Maddux leads a busy life as a wife and mother, she feels her family has been fortunate and is dedicated to giving back. “I see the strength of people who go through more in their lives than most can imagine, and I want to help. There are so many ways to help and sometimes we can learn more from giving back than can be put into words.”
