Simmons Award celebrates the spirit of philanthropy
Kiwanis honor named for community activist
By Darleen Principe darleen@theacorn.com

Jack Simmons was a businessman who loved to give back to his community.

The longtime Simi Valley resident, who died in 2002, was one of the original members of the Kiwanis Club of Santa Susana. He owned several businesses in the Los Angeles area.

But above all, he was a community activist, said Jeff Bertoniere, current president of the local Kiwanis Club.

"He was not a public figure at all," Bertoniere said. "But he liked doing anything and everything he could to promote Simi Valley as the best place to live."

Simmons was known by many for his dedication to the community, donating money and countless volunteer hours to programs like Meals on Wheels and the Lunch Bunch.

He also offered his business expertise to other organizations in the area- to make them more efficient, Bertoniere said.

To commemorate the beloved philanthropist, who died in his 70s on Dec. 15, 2002, the Kiwanis Club of Santa Susana is seeking nominees for the fifth annual Jack Simmons Community Service Award.

Nominees, who cannot be members of the Kiwanis Club, must exemplify the spirit of volunteerism in Simi Valley.

The winner of the award will receive a plaque and a $500 donation to the charity of their choice.

To make a nomination, send a letter with the person's name describing his or her community service history to Judy Bertoniere, The Kiwanis Club of Santa Susana, P.O. Box 295, Simi Valley, CA 93062, or call (805) 377-0130.

"It should include why you think the person should receive the award and what they've done to make Simi Valley a better place." Bertoniere said.

Nomination letters must be postmarked by May 15.

The date of the award ceremony will be announced before the end of May.