Skyeanne Webb took the top prize for the CommUNITY Asset Awards on Saturday. Webb is a special education teacher for the Aspen Tigers. Photo by Chad Lauritzen
Natali Steinberg and Carie Fanning of the Family Strengths Network took the Director’s Choice award for representations of 2022. Photo by Chad Lauritzen
By BENADETTE LAURITZEN
Champions of Youth Ambitions
Saturday was a great day for educators and do-gooders of all kinds as a small ceremony was held for the annual CommUNITY Asset Awards.
The Champions of Youth Ambitions (C’YA) program has held this awards ceremony virtually the last two years virtually but as the pandemic enters a third year, the non-profit felt that a real display of love in person was needed by the community for 2023.
Thirty people were honored and stories shared for those who make a difference in our community. The event showcased people of all ages, from girl scouts to a nonagenarian. The stories shared filled the well for all in attendance. Educators, volunteers and people who go the extra mile, even if it is in their work world such as four Smith’s employees, are what makes this community a great place to live.
The big winner of the day was Skyeanne Webb who received the Spirit of the West Award, named for former County Councilor Jim West. Skye was nominated by two community members as a shining light for Aspen Elementary School. Her volunteer work from foster care for the Española Animal Shelter, LGBTQ community and work from health care to a passion for those students with special needs rose to the top of the list for the selection committee.
The Director’s Choice selects two nominees from all of those nominated, to draw extra recognition. The 2023 Director’s Choice has two recipients. The first, Carie Fanning, representing Family Strengths Network for their programs, connections and relationships that changes lives. The second is Natali Steinberg for her volunteer efforts with PEEC, the Randall Davey Audubon Center and Oppenheimer Condo Association.
Nominations are now underway for 2024, visit www.cya-nm.org and request a nomination form or call 505.695.9139.
Richard Ronquillo of Rich Welding LLC has handmade the Spirit of the West Award at no cost annually since 2009. He is a welder by trade and Saturday was his first time attending the event during which he presented the award to 2023 recipient Skyeanne Webb. Photo by Chad Lauritzen