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Easterseals SoCal Honored as Non-Profit of the Year

Easterseals SoCal receives Non-Profit of the Year at the Estrella Awards, recognized for advancing Orange County's Hispanic community and making an impact.

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The Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce honored Easterseals Southern California (ESSC) as Non-Profit of the Year at the 32ndannual Estrella Awards, recently held at Disneyland Hotel.

These awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to advancing the Hispanic community in Orange County, highlighting leadership, service and measurable community impact.

“We’re grateful to the Chamber for this meaningful recognition,” said Mark Whitley, President & CEO of ESSC. “It reflects the heart and dedication of our staff and the individuals and families we are honored to serve every day.” 

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A group of people dressed in formal attire are gathered together at an event, posing and smiling for a photo in a warmly lit room.
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A Night to Remember

Nearly 40 ESSC staff members, board members and program participants came to the celebration. Representing ESSC on stage to accept the award were Maria Vega, Program Director of Adult Day Services at the Pyott Center, ESSC Board Member Claudia Villamizar and Francisco (“Javi”), who has been receiving services at the Pyott Center since 2015.

“It was such an honor to be recognized as Non-Profit of the Year,” said Ramona Ramirez, Program Coordinator at the Pyott Center. “We do so many amazing things at Easterseals and it’s incredibly meaningful to be recognized for our work. I got so emotional watching them accept the awards.

“Javi was so excited when he got off the stage,” she continued. “He had a huge smile. As he walked back to his table, he shook hands with other guests, who congratulated him, and showed them the award."