Honored by Gavilan
They say good things come to those who persevere. In May,
Cecelia received an Honorary Associate’s Degree from Gavilan
College for her leadership of the Edward Boss Prado Founda-
tion and its positive impact on youth pursuing education in
the face of economic and other challenges. There was nary a
dry eye during Cecelia’s acceptance speech.
According to Gavilan President Kathleen Rose, “Every
year Gavilan’s board considers candidates to receive honorary
degrees…people whose work reflects the power and promise
of education in building strong communities. Through her
foundation, Cecelia has consistently provided local students
in need with food, clothing, supplies and scholarships. She
was surprised when I called to let her know of the award,
and over the moon with enthusiasm about participating in
our graduation ceremony. It was an opportunity to share
her conviction that all youth have access to education and
respectful treatment on campus.”
Edward Boss Prado Foundation
Since establishing her nonprofit foundation in 2013,
Cecelia has launched ten community service programs, all
empowering people in need with resources that foster dignity
and respect.
“Whenever an issue tugs at my heart, I dig into it,”
she said.
The all-volunteer foundation funds 100 percent of
donations directly to programs and recipients. She credits her
board members—Gary Ponzini, Steven Riley Prado, Laura
Escoto, Melissa Santos, Connie Sue Murray, John Horner,
Kathy Carrera, Betty Beach, Michelle McKay, and Mayor Steve
Tate; and former members Ken Murray and Jennifer Tate—for
their help and support along the way.
Last year, the Foundation partnered with the YMCA to
host a “pop-up Christmas” in Gilroy for more than 50 home-
less people, complete with dinner, a decorated Christmas
tree, and gifts.
“It was such a cold holiday season; one woman’s fingers
were blue from being exposed. We gave out tents, sleeping
bags, blankets, thermals, Christmas cards with a little note
and cash inside, and Tupperware containers so they could
take leftovers with them. Homeless families told me they
were looking for a way out, jobs, and a safe place to live.”
“Giving keeps me going. This foundation is my life. If
Edward was with us today I think he would love it!”
Foundation Programs
Cecelia’s Closet & Food Pantry – donated food and clothing for
people in need through referrals from Morgan Hill and Gilroy
Unified School Districts, Community Solutions and other agencies.
Over 3,000 families served since 2014.
No Child Goes Unfed – Funds donated to Live Oak, Ann
Sobrato, Christopher, and Gilroy high schools provide no-cost
lunch to students in need; no questions asked.
Walking with Dignity – Since 2014, the Foundation has
provided nearly 2,000 gift cards to students at eight elementary
schools for the purchase of new shoes.
HOPE Program – Provides special duffel bags carried in Morgan
Hill Police Department patrol cars. When officers encounter the
homeless, these duffles provide them with basic necessities and
create opportunities for positive interaction with public safety
officers.
Back to School Fit for Fall – Every August, backpacks, school
supplies and clothes are distributed to Morgan Hill and selected
Gilroy elementary school district students in need.
Share the Runway – Since 2013, the Foundation has provided
more than 1,100 donated prom dresses and accessories to girls
in need.
Free Octoberfest – Every October, community members in need
are invited to Cecelia’s Closet to select from donated and surplus
clothing.
Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway – Throughout South County,
families in need who would otherwise go without are provided
with a complete Thanksgiving turkey dinner.
Holiday Toy Drive – Since 2014, the Foundation has part-
nered with the City of Morgan Hill, Morgan Hill Chamber of
Commerce, CAL FIRE, Girl Scout Troup 62224, Kiwanis, and
many other organizations to collect and donate toys to MHUSD
elementary school families in need.
Prado “On the Go” Scholarships – Awarded to local students
demonstrating financial need and the desire to earn skills
certifications in medical billing, automotive repair, culinary arts,
home inspections, water & wastewater system maintenance,
veterinary tech services, and more.
Fundraising Event
“Cecelia wants to help families struggling to make
ends meet and to make sure they are treated with
dignity. She’s always on the lookout for unmet
needs, like a guardian angel.”
— P.A. Walsh Principal Teresa Sermersheim
76
GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN
An Evening with the Boss
June 23rd marked the Edward Boss Prado Foundation’s “An
Evening with the Boss” gala fundraiser, a Frank Sinatra themed
event at the Granada Theater. Guests enjoyed fine food with
wine pairings from Léal Vineyards, music and dancing, and a
live-silent auction. Event Platinum Sponsor: Léal Vineyards. Gold
Sponsors: Ladera Grill, Kaiser Permanente, Cochrane Road Self
TODAY .
Storage and
gmh
JULY/AUGUST 2017
gmhtoday.com