Congratulations to Patti Bangs, Nancy Meyers, and Esther Rubio for being awarded the 2009-2010 “Light the Fire Within” Awards. At a ceremony on June 10, 2010, three outstanding examples of volunteerism and dedication to others were honored with the 2009-2010 “Light the Fire Within” Award.

MCOE staff is doing charitable worked outside of their regular jobs in the kitchens that feed the homeless and infirmed, as warriors in the battle against cancer, and as volunteers in dozens of non-profit organizations throughout Monterey County.

Now in its eighth year, the “Light the Fire Within” Awards recognizes these “Unsung Heroes:” employees of the M.C.O.E. who have made significant contributions to others outside of their employment.

Patti Bangs
Teacher in the Severe Disorder of Language Program, Monterey Park School
Special Education

When Nate Danielson, a 2009 “Light the Fire” award winner, nominated Patti Bangs, she wrote: “I have known Patti for 10 years as a colleague and friend. She has a need to serve others. I have enjoyed her humor and optimistic outlook on life. Patti always manages to find time for others. She is deeply respected and admired for her graciousness and commitment.”

In her free time, Nancy gives freely of her time and energy to help the challenged youth and others in need in Monterey County.

Patti’s many charitable actives include:

• Raising funds for research in leukemia and lymphoma by being a member and mentor in the Teams in Training Marathon
• She has worked to rebuild homes following the hurricanes of Katrina and Rita on the Gulf Coast
• President of the PTA at McKinnon School
• President of the Music Boosters at Santa Rita School
• Member of the Presbyterian Disaster Relief Program
• and serving as a member of the “Be A Match” bone marrow donation program 

Nancy Myers
Program Specialist
Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA)

In her free time, Nancy gives freely of her time and energy to help the challenged youth and others in need in Monterey County. In the past 20 years, Nancy has been involved with:

• Meals On Wheels
• Special Olympics
• Starry Night Kids Crusade
• Dorothy’s Kitchen
• Hoe Down for Housing
• Many school graduations
• Volunteer with Ag. Against Hunger
• Board Member of Interim Agency
• and many fundraisers for schools and good causes

“She is a role model for all of her co-workers and concerned citizens,” Nancy’s nomination read. “Her energy is unlimited and her dedication unsurpassed. She is always the first person to volunteer for an event, large or small. She is willing to take a major role in planning an event or is willing to cook, decorate or do any task that is needed. Nancy is compassionate, a true leader, and a companion and champion to everyone in need.”

Esther Rubio
Director
Head Start Program

Esther Rubio leads by example and by high ethical standards. In addition to putting long hours in the Head Start Program, she finds the time to make a difference in the lives of others through her involvement in the community.

For many years, Esther and her husband Carlos have volunteered with the All County High School Soccer Committee to give Salinas youth a chance to be involved in sports after school and on weekends. Esther coordinated fundraising involving parents to purchase uniforms and soccer gear. She headed-up the effort to get businesses and corporate sponsorship of team members.

She has also volunteered for over 10 years as an event coordinator for the High School All Star Soccer Game, enabling over 600 boys and girls to participate.

“Esther is a quiet-non-assuming individual who demonstrates her dedication to others by participating with her whole soul and heart,” her nominators wrote. “Her patience and quiet demeanor allows others to open up and give of themselves. Her relentless energy and positive outlook in life inspires others to follow her lead.”

Esther has been involved with:

• Served as Board Chair for CHISPA
• Board Member for the California Head Start Association Member of LULAC, Chapter 2055
• Member of Kushikino Sister City Association
• Member of United Way Successful Kids and Families Impact Council
• Member of Monterey County Office of Education Center for Art, Education and Technology
• Member of the Monterey County Resource Center Network
• and most recently, First Five Monterey County Commissioner

“Esther is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and get into the job at hand. She is a caring, giving, and committed individual who have earned the respect of her staff and others in the community. She was Monterey County Woman of the Year in 1999.”