At the 35th annual San Gabriel Region Volunteer Recognition Dinner on Monday, May 6, Pomona Catholic School received the Spirit of Caring Award, honoring the school’s faithful service to their community. The school is one of three awardees for this year, including Bishop David O’Connell and the late Bill Clark. 

A video told the story of how Pomona Catholic’s faculty, staff, and students came together to help a family in need. Their mission inspired a partnership between the school and the San Gabriel Region of Catholic Charities, as they worked to find a creative and collaborative solution to provide support. The student who received their help shared the story with administrators, Bishop David O’Connell, and Catholic Charities. Pomona Catholic’s aid went beyond the classroom, helping the family during the holidays and other hard times. 

“We applaud Pomona Catholic for their creative and service-first approach to education, which was especially demonstrated in their significant efforts to help one family who was most in need,” said Priya Tharayil, the San Gabriel Regional Director of Catholic Charities. 

At the dinner, Pomona Catholic’s principal, Rebecca Arteaga, development director Navy Phay, Sister Julianna Vagnozzi, faculty and staff members, alumni and a student body representative were on hand to receive the award.

Start your day with Always Forward, our award-winning e-newsletter. Get this smart, handpicked selection of the day’s top news, analysis, and opinion, delivered to your inbox. Sign up absolutely free today!