Trash collectors reaping rewards
Waste Management recognized by two community organizations

Community involvement has always been a priority for Waste Management of Simi Valley and G.I. Industries.

Recently, these efforts were recognized by separate awards from the Boys & Girls Club of Simi Valley and the Simi Valley Police Foundation.

The Boys & Girls Club named Waste Management its Business of the Year at the annual recognition luncheon, and the Police Foundation gave its Presidents Award to Mike Smith, Waste Management market area manager.

"For this award, we single out the company that has made the biggest difference, and Waste Management was above and beyond the best choice both in terms of volunteer support as well as financial support," said Linda White, club CEO. "Waste Management has been a longstanding supporter, and we are so thankful for their support."

As a result of WM's support, the club has been able to serve more children and open up more onsite programs, including a recent one at a local elementary school.

WM's district manager, Scott Tignac, has been a member of the club's board of directors for the past three years.

The police foundation's Presidents Award is given to a member of the foundation's board of directors who has worked hard to further the organization's goal of maintaining a safe community through citizen participation.

"Mike was honored not only for his overall dedication to the police foundation, but also for stepping up to the plate and seeing that our goals and objectives are taken care of in an expeditious manner," said Dave McCormick, foundation president.

Smith has been on the foundation's board for four years. The foundation helps support various police programs, such as the K-9 and Explorer programs, that do not receive funding from the annual police budget.