1-800-526-1555
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1776 W March Lane. Ste 140 Stockton, CA 95207·
Mon. - Fri. 8:30 am - 5 pm
Lester Patrick is a lifelong advocate, mentor, and servant leader whose life’s work stands as a testament to faith, integrity, and unwavering commitment to others. Guided by his belief that “God wants us all to be a blessing to those who cannot bless themselves,” Lester has spent decades leading by example, empowering individuals, strengthening families, and inspiring entire communities to serve with compassion and purpose. Lester considers his family as his top accomplishment. He married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Linda and together they have served many in various roles, sharing their deep commitment to each other and those around them.
Throughout his life, Lester has dedicated himself to building bridges of opportunity and hope. Following his retirement, he deepened his community engagement, offering his wisdom and steady leadership to numerous boards and initiatives. His service includes meaningful roles with the Lodi Unified School District, the Housing Authority of San Joaquin County, including his current position as a board member of the Family Resource Center and most recently appointed as VP of Commissioners for the Pacific Southwest Regional Conference of the, National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) covering four western states and Hawaii. In every capacity, he has worked tirelessly to uplift children, families, and neighborhoods—championing education, housing, and access for those most in need. Lester has also authored the books “Weak Start Unapologetic Present“, “Inspirational Moments“, and “Sin or Politics: You Decide” (no link available).
A Legacy of Service and Strength
A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Lester’s commitment to service began long before his community leadership took shape. The same courage and selflessness that defined his military service continue to guide his work today. Whether mentoring youth, supporting family programs, or advising local leaders, he approaches every opportunity with humility, patience, and grace.
Lester’s quiet yet powerful presence has left an indelible mark on all who have had the privilege to serve alongside him. His leadership reminds us that the truest measure of success is not found in recognition or position, but in the number of lives made better through one’s care and example.
A Life That Inspires Generations
Through his steadfast advocacy, generosity of spirit, and unwavering faith, Lester Patrick has spent a lifetime showing what it means to lead with heart. He continues to inspire others to give selflessly, speak boldly, and walk humbly, modeling a legacy of service that will echo across generations.
Lester’s influence can be felt in the classrooms he’s supported, the families he’s strengthened, and the community he’s helped to unify. His lifelong devotion to faith and service exemplifies the very essence of the Because Kids Award – Lifetime Achievement Honor, celebrating a man who has not only blessed his community, but shown us all what it truly means to be a blessing.
For the past eight years, Jakesha R. Hillman, owner and operator of The Kiddie Klub House, has devoted herself to the growth and well-being of children through her licensed home-based child care program. Guided by a deep commitment to early childhood development, education, and emotional wellness, Jakesha has built a nurturing environment where learning begins with love and every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to thrive.
As both an educator and caregiver, Jakesha combines professional expertise with the personal attention that a home-based setting can provide. Licensed by the State of California, she manages every aspect of Kiddie Klub House with care, from curriculum design and family communication to assessments, activities, and events. Her work often extends beyond formal duties, as she donates time, resources, and workshops to support families in need across the Tracy and Stockton communities.
A Place Where Learning Feels Like Home
Since its founding, Kiddie Klub House has provided high-quality, curriculum-based care for children ages 1 to 12, blending structured learning with play, creativity, and exploration. Each day includes circle time, art, outdoor play, and themed learning activities designed to promote early literacy, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth.
Every lesson and activity reflects Jakesha’s belief that children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and loved. Her individualized approach ensures that each child receives the attention and encouragement they need to reach developmental milestones and gain confidence as learners.
To date, Kiddie Klub House has served more than 35 children and families, many of whom return with younger siblings or refer friends—a testament to the trust and lasting relationships she has built. Graduates leave the program ready for preschool or kindergarten, equipped with foundational skills, self-assurance, and a lifelong love of learning.
Inclusive, Compassionate, and Community-Driven Care
Jakesha’s philosophy of care is grounded in inclusion and adaptability. Kiddie Klub House welcomes children from all backgrounds, including those with special needs or developmental differences, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. She has successfully supported children with speech delays, developmental challenges, and behavioral needs through tailored routines, gentle transitions, and individualized learning plans.
Beyond the classroom, Jakesha fosters community connection through family engagement projects, cultural celebrations, and give-back initiatives, teaching children the value of empathy and kindness from an early age. Her communication with parents is consistent, transparent, and collaborative—creating a true partnership in every child’s success.
Because Kids Deserve the Best Start
Through her dedication, resilience, and heartfelt service, Jakesha R. Hillman has turned Kiddie Klub House into more than a daycare—it’s a foundation for learning, growth, and belonging. Her ability to balance professional excellence with genuine compassion has made a lasting impact on dozens of families and hundreds of young hearts.
Her unwavering commitment to quality early education and her advocacy for inclusive, nurturing child care embody the spirit of the Because Kids Award. Every child who passes through Kiddie Klub House leaves not only better prepared for school, but surrounded by the love, confidence, and curiosity that will guide them for years to come.
Heather A. Freligh embodies the very heart of the Because Kids Award through her dedication to mentorship, advocacy, and community health. Her work bridges generations—empowering women, protecting children, and inspiring communities to take action. Through every endeavor, Heather demonstrates that leadership rooted in compassion and courage can save lives and shape futures.
As a leader with the American Heart Association (AHA), Heather champions critical health initiatives that extend far beyond awareness campaigns. She has become a powerful voice for women’s empowerment and public health, mentoring emerging female leaders and encouraging them to see the value of their own stories. Her message is one of resilience, collaboration, and inclusion, helping women build confidence and step boldly into leadership roles
Transforming Advocacy into Action
Heather’s advocacy reached a defining milestone through her leadership in advancing AB 2887 – “The Heather Freligh Act.” This landmark California legislation requires schools to strengthen their cardiac emergency response protocols, ensuring that life-saving measures are in place for students, educators, and staff.
Born from her personal experience and unwavering commitment to protecting others, this act represents the power of one person to drive systemic change. It stands as a testament to Heather’s belief that giving back means transforming adversity into action—and ensuring that no child or family faces preventable tragedy alone.
Mentorship and Leadership That Inspire
Beyond policy and public health, Heather invests deeply in people. As a mentor and advocate, she encourages young women – helping them navigate challenges, celebrate their strengths, and embrace leadership with confidence.
Her mentorship extends into community spaces as well. Heather regularly speaks at events including the Sacramento Heart Ball, executive breakfasts, and Heart Walks, sharing her story to inspire action. She has participated in more than 20 community and advocacy events, from health-focused panels to state capitol discussions, amplifying voices that promote wellness, equity, and empowerment.
Through her presence and example, Heather reminds others—especially young women—that their voices matter, their stories have power, and their leadership can change lives.
A Legacy of Hope and Health
Heather’s journey exemplifies what it means to lead because kids and communities depend on it. Her advocacy for safer schools, her mentorship of women in leadership, and her tireless volunteerism with the American Heart Association all converge into a life defined by purpose and compassion.
Her impact will continue to ripple through classrooms, boardrooms, and communities for generations to come. With every life she touches and every story she empowers, Heather A. Freligh reminds us that the most powerful way to help children is to create a world where their hearts—and futures—are protected.
📹 Watch Heather’s story through the American Heart Association:
Since the 2015-2016 school year, John McCandless STEM Charter School (JMC)—part of the Lincoln Unified School District—has served the children of San Joaquin County with distinction, compassion, and innovation. As a public K–8 charter school, JMC is deeply committed to equitable access and academic excellence, proudly reflecting the demographic and socioeconomic diversity of the community it serves.
With a dedicated staff of passionate educators and support personnel, JMC goes far beyond traditional expectations—educating, mentoring, and advocating for every child. For more than a decade, the school has provided high-quality, inclusive instruction to roughly 400 students each year, consistently ranking among the top-performing schools in Lincoln Unified. The team’s unwavering focus on student achievement, growth, and well-being has made JMC a model for what compassionate, student-centered education can achieve.
Innovation and Inclusion at the Heart of Learning
At JMC, learning is designed to inspire curiosity and confidence. The school’s hallmark project-based learning model engages students in authentic, real-world problem-solving that fosters creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Every project is thoughtfully crafted to include all learners—differentiated to honor diverse strengths, learning styles, and academic needs.
A cornerstone of JMC’s approach is “Genius Hour,” an enrichment program that gives students dedicated time to explore their passions in the STEM fields—from robotics and coding to environmental science and engineering design. This beloved program empowers students to pursue their interests, discover new talents, and develop essential 21st-century skills that prepare them to lead and innovate.
Every Child, Every Ability
The JMC team’s commitment to inclusivity runs deep. Through co-teaching models, push-in supports, and family partnerships, the school ensures that children with disabilities and learning differences are not merely accommodated—they are celebrated. Academic interventions and enrichment opportunities are seamlessly woven into the school day, ensuring that no student is ever left behind or overlooked.
Beyond academics, JMC fosters a positive and nurturing school culture built on social-emotional learning, behavioral supports, and mental health resources. Students are encouraged to use their voices, express their ideas, and take an active role in shaping their school community. In every decision—from classroom instruction to extracurricular programs, children remain at the center.
Because Kids, They Excel
The sustained excellence of John McCandless STEM Charter School is a testament to the collective heart and vision of its educators, staff, and families. Through innovation, inclusion, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential, JMC continues to create an environment where all students can thrive – academically, socially, and emotionally.
Their decade-long commitment to empowering young minds makes John McCandless STEM Charter School a truly deserving recipient of the Because Kids Award School Honoree.
Monique Patton exemplifies the power of passion and purpose. In less than a year, she founded Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting children on the autism spectrum and their families throughout San Joaquin County. Balancing full-time work at a major corporation with her role as a special needs parent, Monique has transformed personal experience into powerful advocacy—building awareness, inclusion, and joy for hundreds of children and families.
Since launching the organization in 2024, Monique has fostered social opportunities for children with autism while coordinating major community events, including the Walk for Autism in Lathrop and the first-ever Autism Resource Fair & Spring Festival in Manteca. Her organization now serves over 400 families, with nearly 200 children receiving direct support in its first year alone, an extraordinary impact driven by care, vision, and determination.
Building Inclusion and Awareness, One Partnership at a Time
Monique’s advocacy extends beyond family support programs to systems-level change. She collaborates with first responders, training them to use sensory kits during emergencies, and provides inclusion workshops at local churches, equipping community members with practical tools to better understand and serve children with sensory and developmental needs.
Through her leadership, Manteca Moms Supporting Kids with ASD Inc. is helping to create a sensory-friendly children’s exhibit at the Manteca Museum, ensuring all children can engage with their community’s history and culture. Her work with the Manteca Recreation and Community Services Department has also led to the expansion of inclusive recreation options citywide, offering children with special needs equal access to play and participation.
Turning Advocacy Into Action
As both a parent and an advocate, Monique has made it her mission to improve the daily lives of families affected by autism. Her efforts include promoting the “Special Needs Occupancy” decal, which helps first responders identify when individuals with disabilities may be inside a residence, and spearheading plans to bring the “Blue Envelope” program to Manteca—an initiative designed to foster safer, more confident interactions between law enforcement officers and drivers with special needs.
Her advocacy is deeply community-rooted yet increasingly regional in reach. Neighboring cities have begun reaching out for guidance in replicating her model of family-centered autism support. And in 2026, through a grant from Music Movement, Monique’s nonprofit will introduce music therapy sessions, expanding access to creative, therapeutic programming for children on the spectrum.
Because Kids Deserve Understanding and Inclusion
Monique’s work is fueled by empathy, perseverance, and a profound belief that every child deserves to feel included, capable, and celebrated. What began as one mother’s mission to support her own child has evolved into a growing network of advocacy, education, and empowerment for families across San Joaquin County.
Her leadership continues to shape a more inclusive future—one where every child, regardless of ability, is met with compassion and opportunity. Through her vision and tireless dedication, Monique Patton embodies the true spirit of the Because Kids Award, proving that lasting change begins with love, courage, and one determined parent willing to take action.
The Stockton Kings, 2024–2025 NBA G League Champions, are true champions beyond the court—dedicated advocates for children and families across the Stockton region. Through an unwavering commitment to health, education, and empowerment, the Kings have built an inspiring legacy of service that continues to transform young lives.
In partnership with Kaiser Permanente, the Kings have developed long-standing community programs focused on youth wellness and access to essential resources:
Fit Kids brings health education and physical activity to seven schools, positively impacting 2,500 students.
209 Locker provides vital essentials—over $4,000 in clothing, $1,000 in school supplies, and 500 hygiene products and installed a new locker at the Boys & Girls Club of Sierra Vista, serving 2,000+ children.
209 Pantry has hosted two large-scale food distributions, ensuring food security for more than 475 families.
During the 2024–2025 season, the Stockton Kings reached over 84,000 people through 83 community events, contributing 228 volunteer hours and hosting player and coach appearances that directly connected youth with mentors and role models.
Their generosity also shines through large-scale donation initiatives:
13,065 tickets donated, valued at $235,170, supporting 105 organizations (a 20% year-over-year increase).
$37,050 in in-kind donations benefiting 172 organizations.
1,300 toys distributed through their Season of Doing Good holiday campaign.
Beyond service, the Kings’ outreach programs champion inclusion, literacy, leadership, and well-being for all children:
Winter Reading Program and Dignity Dental Reading Assemblies promote literacy and oral health for nearly 2,000 students.
Youth and Coach Clinics empower 27 young athletes and 30 coaches, many serving under served communities—with skills in leadership, teamwork, and confidence.
Children with special needs and those from under served backgrounds are prioritized through initiatives like 209 Locker and 209 Pantry, ensuring equitable access to education and opportunity.
Their commitment extends through community fundraising, charitable events, and creative giving campaigns such as Jersey Auctions, Small Business/Nonprofit of the Night, and 6th Man presented by Stockton Honda, all of which celebrate and uplift local families.
Through every initiative, the Stockton Kings demonstrate that sports can be a vehicle for equity, empowerment, and hope. Their dedication to creating opportunity and joy for all children exemplifies the spirit of child advocacy—and makes them a truly deserving recipient of the Because Kids Award for Business.
Since June 2020, April Farage has served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer for the Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) of San Joaquin County, standing beside some of the region’s most vulnerable youth with compassion, commitment, and unwavering faith. As a CASA, she has personally advocated for three young girls in foster care, including two sisters—remaining a steady, loving presence through some of the most difficult chapters of their lives.
April ensures each child she serves has not only their basic needs met, but also the chance to experience joy, belonging, and opportunity. She’s championed academic success, emotional healing, and social connection—going beyond casework to celebrate birthdays, coordinate senior trips, attend proms, and organize college tours. Even after cases close, she continues to stay in touch, providing the long-term stability and trust that every child deserves.
A Voice for Children—and for Those Who Serve Them
April’s impact extends beyond individual advocacy. In 2022, she joined the CAPC Board of Directors, where she brings the invaluable perspective of a hands-on volunteer to organizational leadership. She serves on both the Development and Marketing Committee and the Finance Committee, strengthening CAPC’s capacity to recruit, train, and support more CASA volunteers.
As a Leadership Stockton graduate, April applies her training and community insight to build partnerships that advance CAPC’s mission. Beginning in 2026, she will serve as Board President, helping guide CAPC’s long-term vision to ensure that every child in foster care has an advocate in their corner.
Advocacy in Action and Leadership in Service
In her professional life, April is the Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A on March Lane and an active leader with the Chick-fil-A Foundation. She has used her business platform to create innovative local fundraisers that directly benefit CASA and foster youth—such as the “Adopt a Cow” campaign during Foster Care Awareness Month and donation promotions each April for Child Abuse Prevention Month.
These initiatives have not only raised vital funds but also built widespread community awareness, inspiring more people to step forward as advocates. Her leadership demonstrates how corporate citizenship and compassion can work hand-in-hand to create lasting impact for children and families.
April’s generosity extends far beyond CAPC. She is a steadfast supporter of numerous local nonprofits, offering her time, business resources, and platform to strengthen their work. Her spirit of service even crosses borders most recently traveling to Thailand with the Chick-fil-A Foundation to share organizational and leadership strategies with other non-profit leaders serving orphaned and vulnerable children in neighboring countries. Her life exemplifies that advocacy knows no boundaries.
Faith in Action, Purpose in Practice
At the heart of April’s service is her faith, which guides every action she takes. She lives out her purpose daily—advocating for youth in foster care, uplifting her community, and embodying compassion through service. Her kindness, humility, and integrity inspire others to give, serve, and lead.
From the courtroom to the boardroom, from local neighborhoods to international communities, April Farage stands as a tireless champion for children. Through her deep empathy, strategic leadership, and unwavering faith, she ensures that every child she meets—and many she may never meet—has someone fighting for their chance to be seen, heard, and loved.
Her life and work embody the very heart of the Because Kids Award: serving selflessly, leading boldly, and believing that every child deserves a champion.
Dr. Amy L. Scriven has devoted her life to improving the health and happiness of children, both through her professional work as a family dentist and through her tireless service to the community. As the founder of Scriven Dental, she has created a welcoming, child-centered practice where every visit is built on compassion, education, and encouragement. Her mission extends far beyond dental care: she helps children feel confident, cared for, and proud of their health.
For 25 years, Dr. Scriven has gone above and beyond to serve the dental and overall well-being of children throughout San Joaquin County. She is known for building lasting, trust-filled relationships with her young patients and their families, ensuring that each child receives personalized, preventive care designed to support lifelong wellness. Her warmth and genuine investment in every child’s success make her an invaluable advocate for children’s health.
Creating a Healthier, Happier Community
Dr. Scriven’s impact reaches far beyond the walls of her practice. She is a familiar and beloved presence at school events, community health fairs, and family programs, where she volunteers her time to teach children about oral hygiene and healthy habits. She and her team also partner with local nonprofits and schools to expand access to preventive care and health education for all children, especially those who might not otherwise have the opportunity.
Her approachable, compassionate manner allows her to connect with children on their level, turning what could be an intimidating experience into one of confidence and joy. This ability to combine clinical excellence with empathy has made Dr. Scriven a trusted figure in both healthcare and the broader community.
Community Leadership and Engagement
Dr. Scriven’s passion for children’s well-being is evident in the many community events and sponsorships she supports each year:
St. Joe’s Fun Run (2025): Participated in the St. Joseph’s Medical Center Fun Run, supporting children’s health and community wellness.
“Gus’ Gamers” – Stockton Ports Baseball: Sponsors free Sunday game admission for youth members, making family outings accessible and fun.
Stockton Ports “First Pitch” Nights: Regularly recognized by the team for supporting youth engagement and community spirit.
Fireworks Night at University of the Pacific Baseball: Sponsor of this beloved family event, fostering a joyful, family-friendly environment.
San Joaquin Dental Society Events: Appears with her therapy dog to comfort children and families, helping reduce dental anxiety.
School & Community Health Fairs: Provides free oral-health education and screenings for children and families.
Stockton Symphony Sponsorship: Supports music and arts enrichment for local youth, highlighting her holistic view of community wellness.
A Life of Care and Contribution
Dr. Scriven’s combination of expertise, empathy, and civic responsibility makes her a powerful force for good. She leads with quiet strength and an unwavering belief that every child deserves access to compassionate, quality care.
Her dedication to education, prevention, and inclusion continues to shape a healthier, more hopeful future for children across San Joaquin County. Through her practice, partnerships, and personal example, Dr. Amy L. Scriven embodies what it means to serve, not for recognition, but Because Kids deserve nothing less.