Stacey Escalante
By Callie Thomas
As Southern Nevada residents, it’s pretty easy to take the sun for granted. Studies have even shown the positive effects of light in relation to our mood. But just as there are two sides to every story, the sun can become a double edged sword, wrecking havoc among unsuspecting worshipers. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 68,720 new melanoma cases will have been diagnosed this year. Incidence rates for skin cancer have been increasing over the last 30 years afflicting a wide age range of people and, unless detected early, can have fatal effects. Being told you are one of those affected with this cancer is beyond devastating. On June 22, 2005, 89123 resident and former KVBC Channel 3 news reporter Stacey Escalante became one of those people.
Before her diagnosis, Stacey lived an active life and loved her job reporting on noteworthy events, including presidential visits and the Salt Lake City Olympics in 2002 and meeting a long list of fascinating people. “I experienced things that most people only get to see on TV,” said Escalante. “I’m not a behind the desk type of person. I like getting out into the community and meeting people.” With her outgoing personality coupled with extraordinary strength and determination, it was no surprise that Stacey would do something that may have seemed radical to many, but would become the ultimate selfless act in helping others. Stacey documented her Stage III melanoma on television. “I felt that people needed to learn from my mistakes. I let the cameras into the operating room. I had two major surgeries, including a lymph node dissection that kept me on my back for seven weeks.” At the time, her husband Matt would bring their two year old son Will and six month old daughter Gabriella to see her on weekends in California where she had the surgeries. “Being separated from my children was one of the most difficult periods of my life,” she said. “I’ve made it my mission to get people to cover up and get their skin checked on a regular basis.” As a result of the news stories and the follow up stories, residents have told Stacey that her story inspired them to get checked and many found cancer early.
Her dedication to skin cancer detection and prevention have led her to volunteer in a variety of ways, including lobbying at the state level through The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network. “I told my story to lawmakers in Carson City last year and traveled to Washington, DC to lobby our federal lawmakers to keep allocating money to cancer research. I have also told them my story and how health care reform will affect someone like me with a pre-existing condition.”
Escalante also speaks at a variety of organizations, including the Young Professionals Against Cancer and to school kids about protecting their skin. “I learned the hard way, so if I can get kids to be careful in the sun by sharing my story then maybe I can make a difference.” She is also instrumental in a newly formed group called Cover Up Nevada, which was started by State Senator Allison Copening when she lost her brother to melanoma. The group supports those that have been affected by the disease. Stacey has also spoken on behalf of the Skin Cancer Awareness Foundation who provided sun shades for local playgrounds and raised money for the American Cancer Society by running the Las Vegas half marathon last December, and is currently teaming up with dermatologist Dr. Johnnie Woodson to speak to conventions and businesses about the dangers and prevention of the disease.
Stacey Escalante continues to touch others’ lives through her own unique story. “I really believe in paying it forward. So much good has come into my life because of this bad experience. I want my kids to learn from my example.’ For more information on any of these programs, email Stacey at Stacey.Escalante.pr@gmail.com.
Lori Krogel
By Callie Thomas
An unknown author once wrote of a young boy who, while walking along the beach where many starfish had washed up on the shore, was picking them up and throwing them back into the ocean. An onlooker, having noticed what he was doing, told him that his effort was pointless, that it wouldn’t make a difference. As the boy threw another starfish into the sea, he responded, “It makes a difference to this one.” Resident Lori Krogel has something in common with the young boy; a desire to help others even when it might seem challenging or even impossible through her work with the United Way of Southern Nevada’s Women’s Leadership Council.
The 22-year Las Vegas resident, wife to husband Michel Gebruers and mother of six year old daughter Chloe, is the Area Director/Recruiter of Accountants International. In her role she is responsible for the financial and operational aspects of the accounting and finance staffing firm. To say that Lori is a natural achiever is an understatement. Not only was her company named Branch of the Year under her direction, but she was recognized as “Star Performer” seven years in a row and awarded the President Club’s Highest Achievement honor in 2008. “I’m fortunate enough to assist local decision makers and owners of companies with their staffing needs,” says Krogel. “It has been a very rewarding experience watching candidates that I have placed flourish in their career.”
This opportunity to nurture talented individuals and see them reach their career goals has been influential in Lori’s decision to support United Way of Southern Nevada’s Women’s Leadership Council, where she proudly serves on the council’s Outreach Committee. With an active career and young daughter, Krogel realized she needed more balance in her life and found the ability to socialize with others while helping people in the community to be appealing. “Being part of the Women’s Leadership Council has given me the opportunity to socialize with very dynamic women from a variety of backgrounds. They are passionate about the cause and inspire me with creative ways to help others.”
The Women’s Leadership Council educates and encourages women to effect change in the community, create venues to share their concerns and visions and strengthen their relationships with each other. The women invest their time, talent and resources in a variety of local non-profit organizations. Local female leaders are brought together and participate in integral educational initiatives, hands-on volunteer involvement and executive level networking. The focus of the group is on education, income and health, which are the building blocks for a good life. “Community service to me isn’t about padding my resume,” says Krogel. “It is an extension of who I am and what motivates me. This is reflected in my career choice as well. I simply like to help others.”
Lori has that opportunity by supporting initiatives through the group which enable children to enter school with important literacy, social, emotional and intellectual skills. She enjoys participating in efforts that assist individuals and families to increase their income, build savings and fulfill assets.
Krogel has recently expanded her philanthropic efforts by also joining the Crimson Links, an organization that promotes the Las Vegas PGA Tour and Shriners Hospital. “I am looking forward to putting as much effort into this cause as well. I was attracted to it because the tour supports Las Vegas as well as the Shriners, who offer local children free medical care,” she said.
Lori Krogel looks forward to continuing her own education and “staying one step ahead” of the changes within her industry. She aspires to make a difference within the community, even if it is one person at a time. “It makes me so happy and fulfilled to know I’ve made a difference in someone’s life, even if it is just giving some advice.”
Seth Lenett
By Callie Thomas
They say that variety is the spice of life. So whether it is over 50 original Golden Spoon flavors and 60+ toppings, or a multitude of charitable organizations in our community, it can be said that resident Seth Lenett leads a less than ordinary life. As a franchise owner of six Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt locations in the Vegas valley with a dedication and passion for helping others, Lenett has whipped up the perfect combination of feeding cravings and feeding the soul. Seth and his staff at his Golden Spoon locations have made donations and supported a litany of organizations that have benefited from their generosity. “There is something that just feels right when we help the local community and give back,” he said.
Seth has always had a natural talent for mixing things up. At the early age of 12, he was already on a cable series in his hometown in the San Fernando Valley as a teenage caterer. After moving to Green Valley in 1987, he went on to study the Culinary Arts under the direction of distinctive chefs and gained a new passion for food and food service. “I started as a busser in the front of the house at the Gold Coast when it opened,” says Lenett. He moved up the culinary ladder in various positions and worked for a number of Strip casino properties as a room chef, in banquets and catering, and even team dining. In 2006, Lenett made the decision to open his first Golden Spoon location.
As the number of Frozen Yogurt locations grew, so did the number of charitable organizations that Seth and his team support. The list reads like a who’s who of non-profits: The American Cancer Society, MDA, The Red Cross, American Diabetes Association, The Reading Rocks Program, Chrohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Baby Scarlett Rose Landfeld and her fight with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Dylin Cename and Polycystic Kidney Disease, The American Heart Association, Children’s Heart Foundation, First Choice Pregnancy Services, Nevada Pep, Teacher’s Health Trust, UMC Hospital, The Gift of Lights, and many more. Out of this extensive list, a few stand out most clearly in Lenett’s heart.
He and his wife and their two sons, Eric and Bryce, had the opportunity to go to the MDA camp in Lake Tahoe where a wide range of activities are designed for young people with limited mobility. “We had the opportunity to attend their annual family day where the kids performed a talent show. The smiles on the children’s faces make it all worth it,” he said. Recently they also volunteered at the American Cancer Society’s relay for life walk raising awareness and money for the local chapter.
But perhaps the organization that has affected Lenett most is the Josh Stevens Foundation. In 2008, a young boy named Josh Stevens lost his life after he suffered a fatal head injury while driving a golf cart in his neighborhood. Upon rounding a corner, he ran into an illegally parked boat. Josh’s parents, Drew and Barbara Stevens, found hope and the ability to continue the kind of life that Joshua led by inspiring children to help others and forming a special foundation. “I have become personally attached to Josh’s family. Drew and I are now true friends as I watch him try to cope with the unimaginable tragedy of losing his son. My oldest son Eric and his son Josh were the same age when we met.”
Seth Lenett leads a full and successful life as a husband, father, business owner and philanthropist. “Persistence is the key to success. We will consistently help build the valley and assist the community whenever and wherever possible.”
Vera C. Leake
By Callie Thomas
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” – Roger Caras
Some people are just dog people. Journalist John Grogan, author of “Marley and Me,” summed up that special feeling dog lovers have for their four-legged friends by saying that “Marley taught me about living each day with unbridled exuberance and joy, about seizing the moment and following your heart.” Resident Vera Leake is a dog person. In fact, it was the adoption of her dog T-Bone that set off a chain of events that would ultimately lead her to a lifelong passion.
“For years I had been searching for my calling,” says Leake. “It evolved through a number of life experiences beginning with the adoption of T-Bone, a wonderful lab-heeler mixed breed from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.” It wasn’t long after adopting T-Bone that Vera’s father became ill with lung cancer. While her father was in hospice she had an opportunity to witness the comfort that was provided to patients facing their illnesses and discovered how visits made by animals made a huge impact in their therapy. “The positive experience and appreciation I gained from my father’s time in hospice led me to have T-Bone trained and certified as a therapy dog,” she said.
Vera became a regular volunteer at Nathan Adelson Hospice as a pet therapist. Although her father passed on, Vera and T-Bone make weekly visits to the center as part of their routine. “It is part of our comfort care program. Nothing brings a smile to my face and to patients than from the positive experience and happiness that T-Bone provides unconditionally.” Leake also acts as an advocate and general cheerleader in motivating other residents and pet owners to consider serving as pet therapists. The healing powers of animals again proved powerful when Vera’s mother began showing signs of Alzheimer’s. While caring for her mother, T-Bone also played a role in providing a bright light amidst a challenging situation. “My mother was always thrilled when T-Bone came along on my visits. She enjoyed tossing a ball which he dutifully chased time and time again for her enjoyment.” As a means of recharging from her on-going care giving duties, Vera found herself spending time with T-Bone at a self-service dog wash and pet store called The Soggy Dog.
While the store carries natural pet foods, toys, treats and pet wellness products, The Soggy Dog is also a resource to the many breed specific pet rescue organizations and shelters in the community. Perhaps it was Vera’s on-going expertise in a variety of retail and administration positions or just a few regular outings to clean up T-Bone that became the catalyst to become a business partner and part owner of the shop with local resident Tracy Bosler. More likely, it was another opportunity to combine her love of dogs with volunteering in the community. “We have donated products and washes over the years to support the various shelters and rescue centers,” said Leake.
Her devoted husband of nearly 15 years refers to the place as “the clubhouse,” and Vera is thrilled to be a regular fixture there, enjoying the wagging tails and sharing her experiences as a pet owner, volunteer pet therapist and now business partner of The Soggy Dog. “Giving of yourself and your time for me is personally rewarding,” she said. “I take personal pride in everything I do, and I truly enjoy what I do.”
Vera Leake’s heart is big and the work she does within the community is proof of the powerful healing accomplishments of man’s best friend. She continues her work with Nathan Adelson Hospice and enjoys spending time with her family and friends, two legged or otherwise, which also includes their other canine adoption named Shortstop.
Terry Fator
By Callie Thomas
Apparently, amazing things can happen when you hear voices. Or rather, listen to the voice within yourself. Very often that voice in the back of your head leads you through life’s challenges and spurs you on to realize your greatest dreams. 89135 resident Terry Fator knows a thing or two about listening to his inner voice—or in his case, voices. Millions witnessed a dream come true when he won the hit entertainment reality show, America’s Got Talent by sharing his special brand of humor and bringing his puppet co-stars to life with hilarious celebrity impressions and extraordinary ventriloquism feats. Terry tickles everyone’s funny bone nightly as the headliner at the Mirage. It would appear that Terry has listened to his inner choir for some time. It’s guided him in developing his passion for performing and for utilizing his talents to help those in need throughout our community.
“I started doing ventriloquism when I was ten years old,” says Fator. “I spent much of my younger days performing for senior citizen homes and charities. It gave me the opportunity to work on my craft in front of a live audience and help others at a very young age.” As Terry’s success as a performer grew, so did the number of charitable organizations that he’s become associated with over the years. Whether it is giving his time and talents through fundraising performances or organizing and influencing a group of his entertainer peers to take the stage as a means of giving back, Terry is always happy to offer a hand. A few of the organizations that can count Terry Fator as one of their most cherished friends are the Ronald McDonald House, the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Child Haven, Make A Wish Foundation, the American Cancer Society, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Keep Memory Alive and the National Arthritis Foundation. “My sister has rheumatoid arthritis so that’s why I chose to work with them and the others are programs that I’ve gotten involved with through friends and family,” Fator said.
But perhaps what has resonated most significantly within Terry are opportunities to assist the military, particularly organizations that recognize and give comfort to former and present service men, women and their families. “I have a profound respect for organizations that assist those in the military and who have given their lives for our country,” he said. “As a kid I remember listening to stories from friend’s relatives who were in the Air Force and about their experiences during the Vietnam War and in POW Camps. I have always involved myself as much as I can in helping out organizations like Wounded Warrior, or Twilight Brigade.”
The sole purpose of Twilight Brigade is to provide bedside volunteers who give comfort, reassurance and compassionate support for those veteran service men and women in their final days and hours of life. The group assures that all our veterans are allowed to pass in peace and dignity. “I was able to do a show recently for a lot of kids who had a parent killed in the current fights in Afghanistan and Iraq and the experience was truly humbling. Seeing a lot of children laughing and enjoying themselves made me feel like a million bucks. I truly saw how powerful laughter can be to a hurting heart.”
Terry Fator has been fortunate to realize his dreams and continually envisions new ones to achieve. Giving back to the community is part of those aspirations and allows Terry to feel like he is a part of something bigger than himself. All in all, Fator is living a life much like his favorite quote by Willy Wonka: “Remember what happened to the boy who suddenly got everything he wanted? He lived happily ever after.”
April Swartz
By Callie Thomas
“Everything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it.” – Confucius
They say beauty is only skin deep, but “they” must not have taken into account the heart and mind of resident April Swartz. Like a breath of spring, April has a vivaciousness and charm that transcends her natural good looks. In fact, the wife and mother, who also represents the state of Nevada as the reigning Mrs. Nevada-America 2009, is a firm believer in helping those in need and is a proponent and motivator in encouraging others to lend their time through community service.
April was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. Her many years with American Airlines as a flight attendant provided an opportunity to travel all over the states as well as five other countries. She and her husband Paul survived a long distance relationship for six years over four different states. April moved to Las Vegas seven years ago. After deciding she needed less time in the air and more time on the ground, Paul and April decided to start their family. Late last year, an acquaintance told April she should enter the Mrs. Nevada-America competition. “I had never participated before in a pageant,” says Swartz. “I decided to go ahead and jump full force into the competition. I could not believe it when they announced my name that I won. I was in shock for 2 1/2 weeks!”
The judging is based on three categories, beauty and poise, physical fitness and interview skills. April aced them all and in particular, her interview skills revealed her passion for community service and her aptitude in encouraging others to volunteer, which has become her platform as Mrs. Nevada-America. “This experience alone has helped me grow as a woman and opened doors I never thought possible,” says Swartz.
The Mrs. Nevada-America pageant is a proud supporter of the Susan G. Komen organization. The group is the global leader of the breast cancer awareness movement. The grassroots effort combines breast cancer survivors and activists to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care and energize the sciences to find a cure. Swartz found a personal connection with the non-profit organization. “My mother-in-law was diagnosed in 2007 with early stage breast cancer and lymphedema, so I happily volunteered with the organization. I have volunteered for various events and spoke about early detection and awareness and started a team to run/walk in the Race for the Cure.”
A love of shopping was the inspiration of a charitable event that April founded in 2008 called the Fashion Swap Charity Event. ‘I have a self-proclaimed black belt in shopping, a passion for fashion and a love of charity work,’ adds April. Several ladies were invited to bring articles from their closet to swap with one another. The event has also included a silent auction. Proceeds are donated to the Susan G. Komen organization.
Swartz has also been involved with Big Brothers, Big Sisters for several years. She was matched up with a bright six year old. Now at thirteen, the girl is still a part of their family. April has also gone through training with the Red Cross in order to help Katrina survivors when it struck the southern coast. “I helped out at the Dallas Reunion Arena where hundreds of displaced people were taking shelter in the arena,” she said.
April continues to stay active as a wife and mother, opening their new business, Gigi”s Cupcakes, as well as giving back to the community. ‘It never feels like a responsibility to me or an obligation. There”s no better feeling at the end of the day than when I have spent my time doing community service.’
Mike Yoder
By Callie Thomas
Resident Mike Yoder has spent decades developing computer software, products and writing programs that are geared toward the integration of computers and evolving technology. While it may seem that Mike is in tune with non-human methodology on a daily basis, Yoder is intent on reaching out and lending a human hand to seniors in need throughout our community.
The sixteen year resident started his career as a software developer consultant with his brother Frank in Virginia in the late 1980s, creating their company, Advanced Information Systems, and relocating it to Las Vegas in 1995. “We built a full-service IT consulting and software development firm,” says Yoder. “As small businessmen, we quickly became involved in the local business community and eventually in community organizations.”
With a compassionate heart as well as an expertise for detail and organization, it was a natural fit for Mike when he had the opportunity to apply those attributes as a board member of the Helping Hands of Vegas Valley organization. “When the opportunity to join the board came up a few years back, I was honored to participate,” Yoder said. “Helping Hands was the first board I’d ever served on.”
Mike serves as the Vice President on the Board of Trustees for Helping Hands and also donates his time and services to take care of all the technical support needed by the organization. The group is a community service organization that provides essential services for seniors age 60 and over in the Las Vegas valley. “We provide three main services: a pantry to supplement groceries for low-income seniors; transportation for seniors who cannot get to doctor’s appointments, grocery stores, complete errands, etc.; and respite care vouchers to allow care givers a much-needed break so that they may return refreshed and continue to provide the care for loved ones over longer periods of time,” Mike said.
As a board member, Mike is part of a team of trustees that advises, governs, oversees policy and direction as well as assists with the leadership and promotion of Helping Hands of Vegas Valley in order to support the core mission and needs of its recipients. “I’ve seen positive experiences reflected in the faces of appreciative seniors over the years in each of these programs,” he said. This month the group will hold its 15th Annual Cars, Stars and Guitars event, with this year’s festivities to be held in conjunction with the Motorhead Festival Poker Run. The event is a spectacular display of exotic cars, hotrods, classics, trucks, bikes, race cars, boats and more. Proceeds of the event benefit the Helping Hands organization.
Yoder also lends his time and support as a board member for Technology Business Alliance of Nevada (TBAN) which provides benefits for technology companies in the valley. It provides the optimum arena for Mike to give other small tech businesses a leg up. The group fosters high-tech growth in the state and is dedicated to assisting technology start-ups in finding the talent, customers and financing needed to succeed. “Giving back gives me a sense of being a contributing member of the community,” says Yoder.
The growth of both the Helping Hands and TBAN organizations are key aspirations Mike has for the future. Mike Yoder’s positive attitude and strong work ethic are just part of the reason he has been successful in business and in helping others throughout the community. He enjoys spending time with his wife Diann and their four children in their backyard oasis with friends and family, as well as making a difference in the community. “Giving back allows me to become more familiar with individuals I normally would not have an opportunity to meet. Hopefully, in some small way, I can have a positive impact on their lives.” For information on the Cars, Stars and Guitars event, visit www.carsstarsguitars.com.
Jennifer Rogers
By Callie Thomas
“Time is a wheel in constant motion, always rolling us along.
Tell me who wants to look back on their years and wonder where those years have gone. And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance….”
– Martina McBride
We’ve all heard it before; live life every day as if it were the last. It’s not always easy to remember as the challenges of the day ensue and responsibilities pile up in an unending heap. Thankfully, we do get reminded from time to time, particularly when an ordinary person lives their life extraordinarily and makes an indelible mark on those around them. That reminder comes in the form of 89148 resident Jennifer Rogers.
The three and a half year resident is a special education teacher at Faiss Middle School where she teaches English Language Arts. That in and of itself would seem to be a selfless career choice, but Jennifer has gone beyond the day to day to nudge along programs that have far reaching affects for those students with special needs as well as create a motivated student body that is eager to assist their fellow classmates. “I began the Best Buddies program at our school,” says Rogers. The Best Buddies program pairs up a student with a disability (buddy) with another student without a disability (peer buddy) based upon interest, hobbies and personality. While the program had been around for many years, and was originally founded internationally in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, it had not been implemented at Faiss Middle School. The result of the collaborations not only benefits those with disabilities, but has created a “pay it forward” mentality for those without disabilities.
Rogers also coaches cheerleading at her school for basketball. The cheerleading and Best Buddy program have seemed to meld into one. “Our cheerleaders come to all of our charity events off campus to cheer for the Best Buddies Program,” Rogers said. “Many of our cheerleaders are peer buddies also. There have been so many students interested in the program that I have associate members to help out at the events.” Some of these events include the Santa Run at Town Square, Festival of Friendship at the District, and the group will be joining the Youth Global Service Day to fix up the Explore Knowledge Academy. “We are also planning a fashion show with Patty’s Closet on June 27 to raise money for our program. Our buddy pairs will be walking down the runway, and hopefully it will raise awareness to spectators.”
Jenny keeps her dance card full on a regular basis because she is also integrally involved with the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HD). Jenny was diagnosed with the genetic disease last summer. “There is no cure for this disease, so I have been raising money for research since I was about 21 years old. I also joined clinical studies so that they could use me as their guinea pig to test brain activity and possible treatments. I want to be a part of finding a cure for HD so that the next generation does not have to deal with this disease,” she said. Jenny also filmed a documentary, which is on YouTube, about her childhood and the disease.
Jenny Rogers wakes up every day with a mission. She is in the process of earning her Ph.D. in clinical psychology so that she can open up a practice to continue working with children. She wants to be a part of finding the HD cure and support HD patients in Vegas. Every day she looks forward to seeing the smiling faces of her students and offers this advice: “Make the best of the time you have in this world and put a permanent stamp on someone’s heart. Live life from your heart, share from your heart, and your story will touch and heal people’s souls.”
Elaine Joy Reininger
By Callie Thomas
It takes a trained eye, creativity and a little ingenuity to make the world a more beautiful place. People with caring hearts that extend their talents and grace to those in the community are the ones who truly make a difference. Resident Elaine Joy Reininger is such a person.
Every day, Reininger is surrounded by beautiful things. She is a Table Top Buyer for Wynn Las Vegas and the Encore Towers. So, exactly what does a Table Top Buyer do? From the exquisite dinnerware to the stylish silver, glassware, table linens and even the salt and pepper shakers, Elaine is responsible for purchasing it at the best price for all the restaurants, snack shops, in-room dining, catering and banquet areas, bars and nightclubs. “If you can’t eat it, I purchase it,” Reininger said. “From toothpicks to China to kitchen equipment, it’s my job to acquire it.” Her creative and stylish nature is also nurtured through her small art and event business called Lainey J’s, offering “Art with Heart,” an appropriate description of Reininger herself. She extends a very large heart in helping children and families throughout the community.
Elaine is no stranger to working with organizations that need a hand. The nineteen year resident was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, but moved around wherever her Army father was stationed. She spent her teen years in Cleveland, Ohio where she was involved with B’nai Brith Youth Groups, through which teens from all backgrounds connect and become involved in serving their community and those in need throughout the world. “I also taught Hebrew and volunteered for United Jewish Religious Schools as a clerk and mentor for students, including mentally challenged youth,” said Reininger. Today, Elaine holds the Youth Liaison chair and is a member of the development committee for the Family Promise organization in Las Vegas.
It is estimated that over 13,000 people are homeless on any given night in Las Vegas. The Clark County School District estimates that over 5,000 children enrolled can be identified as being homeless. Family Promise is committed to helping homeless families in the Las Vegas valley achieve lasting independence. From safe shelter, meals and support, Family Promise mobilizes the community to extend those services. The group does this by partnering with faith houses and community organizations to help families transition from homelessness to stability and independence, with compassionate guidance, shelter and education. Elaine became involved with Family Promise through a “Mitzvah Day”, a day of service within the community through her synagogue, Congregation Ner Tamid. “I participated in redesigning the playroom at the day house along with several other temple members,” she said. From that point forward, Reininger became an on-going part of Family Promise, extending her assistance to other projects, including Cardboard City 2009, an event which created awareness for homelessness; the God Lives in Glass musical fundraiser; and Hope 2, another fundraising event where the cast of Phantom presented an afternoon of classic ballet, just to name a few.
Reininger and her husband Steven have also encouraged their fifteen-year-old son Alexander (Zander) to pitch in as well. “My son and I repainted the Family Promise Day House kitchen. He gave his services there as part of his Bar Mitzvah project.”
Elaine Joy Reininger continues to lend a hand and influence others whether it is with Family Promise, donating to the Children’s Heart Association, the Breast Cancer Society or other organizations. “It warms my heart to help others who are less fortunate, and I hope that I have passed on to my family what my parents have taught me about giving back.”
Punam Mathur
By Callie Thomas
“The most powerful weapon on earth is the human soul on fire.” – Ferdinand Foch
By harnessing the unique powers within us, great things can happen. Resident Punam Mathur knows a thing or two about channeling the energy of and for people, particularly as she is currently the Vice President of Human Resources at Nevada Energy. In fact, Punam’s entire career has revolved around pulling the best from others and putting those efforts to good use through her work at MGM Mirage, Corporate Diversity and Community Affairs, and the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce. “I have had the privilege of having community involvement as a centerpiece in my professional positions,” Mathur said. “They have allowed me to blend my vocations with my advocations.”
Supporting the community is a natural byproduct of Punam’s personality as much as it is of her profession. When all is said and done, you’ve got to enjoy people, have a keen sense of character and a passion for helping others. Outside of her career, Punam reaches out to numerous community organizations, including Three Square where she is a Board Chair.
Three Square is a central location where food is donated and rescued for distribution to those in need. The organization provides bakery, produce, dairy, non-perishable products and ready-to-eat meals to non–profit and faith-based organizations. Three Square also facilitates childhood and senior nutrition programs and serves as a place for members of the community to meet, serve and collaborate to become part of the food solution. By combining the right resources, experience, passionate people and local businesses, Three Square is on the way to ensuring that no one will go hungry.
“The rapid growth of Three Square has been a thrill,” says Mathur. “To be on the ground floor just two and a half years ago planning to wage a war against hunger, and today moving nearly 20 million pounds of food annually in partnership with more than 270 community agencies and more than 150 schools is incredibly gratifying.”
Mathur is proud to be involved within the community and has a particular passion for organizations that serve the needs of at risk youth. As a single mom of three – Richard, Joseph and Tai -Punam regularly extends her compassion to make a difference with kids. “I’ve been active over the years in public education with organizations such as Communities in Schools, After School All-Stars and several organizations which advocate on behalf of children and seek to reform the child welfare system.” Those efforts also include being an Executive Committee Co-Chair for the Nevada Partnership for Inclusive Education (PIE), and Punam has just been appointed to the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Education.
At this stage in her life, the twenty-eight year Las Vegas native just strives to be the best she can be, which includes raising and inspiring her children to be happy, confident and compassionate people. Although time is tight between her family and work, Punam Mathur continues to lend her support and make a difference.
Giving back has not only presented Punam with the opportunity to meet a countless list of talented people, but has instilled a sense of belonging to something greater than herself. “People throughout my life have believed in me and inspired me to work hard. Their endless optimism has taught me that things can be better utilizing the power within us.”
