Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez named Nancy Sakurai of Chino as the Woman of the Year from the 52nd Assembly District. Sakurai is a 27-year resident of the City of Chino and a dedicated community volunteer.
"Nancy exemplifies what it means to serve your community," said Rodriguez. "She has dedicated much of her time to local community organizations and the residents of Chino have undoubtedly benefitted from her commitment. I am honored to be able to recognize her as our Woman of the Year."
Nancy's passion for volunteerism began when her children entered high school and joined the award winning Chino High School Band program. Nancy volunteered as chaperone and led fundraising efforts for the band. She and her husband became actively involved with Chino community events, volunteering for the Chino Holiday Parade, Healthy Chino, and many 5K Events including Reindeer Romp, Run For Russ, and the Chino Youth Museum Fun Run.
In 2007, Nancy began volunteering for the American Cancer Society-Chino Relay for Life, eventually becoming a board member. She also sits on the board of the ACS - Chino Valley Bark for Life, and the Chino Community Center Corporation; an organization that raises money to award scholarships to children in our community interested in the performing arts; music, photography, and art.
In addition to dedicating her own efforts and hours to amazing organizations and causes, Nancy, along with her husband, have helped to secure several grants that sustained many programs that enrich the community. One of these programs is the Chino Youth Museum's First Fridays, allowing visitors to enjoy the museum exhibits, a show and snack free of charge once a month.
"I am very honored and extremely humbled by this acknowledgement," said Sakurai. "As a result of my volunteering in the community, I realize the importance of providing assistance to another can make a long lasting transformation in many lives. Volunteer. It's a blast!" Beginning in 1987, the California Legislative Women's Caucus sets aside a day in March during Women's History Month to honor exemplary women throughout California. Honorees traveled to Sacramento and were recognized during a ceremony on the Assembly Floor.