Four groups and individuals were presented the 2009 Crissy Field Center Community Hero Award: Alemany Farms, Cycles of Change, Friends of Boeddeker Park, and Sister Stephanie Hughes.

Whatever their approach, methodology, or position, they all fit one very important criterion: their work has made a positive impact on the community and has inspired others to get involved and make a difference.

Learn more about these heroes below:

Alemany Farms Staff & Volunteers

Alemany Farms Staff and Volunteers have revitalized Alemany Farm —a  4.5 acre of land situated near a 165-unit public housing development beset by high unemployment and violence—into an oasis of opportunity. This multi-generational endeavor brings people from different ethnic and economic backgrounds together in growing healthy, organic food. Proceeds from food sales pay the local teens who work in the garden as they gain green job skills. Click play below to view their inspirational story.

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Cycles of Change

Cycles of Change has been changing the lives of East Oakland youth for more than a decade. Using a hands-on approach, they engage hundreds of kids in programs that integrate physical education, nutrition, and mechanical curricula, while making positive contributions to the local environment. Through their Earn-A-Bike program, youth gain an understanding of the principles of re-use by learning how to repair bicycles that would have otherwise ended up in landfill. Click play below to view their inspirational story.

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Friends of Boeddeker Park & Presentation Senior Community

Friends of Boeddeker Park and the Presentation Senior Community who have joined San Francisco's Recreation and Park Department to make Boeddeker Park a garden refuge in the heart of the Tenderloin District. For the past two years, these volunteers—mostly Chinese speaking senior citizens—have rejuvenated the space. Rosemary and sage replace the needles and syringes that once littered the garden beds. Click play below to view their inspirational story.

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Sister Stephanie Hughes, Lazarus House

Together with a small group of dedicated volunteers, Sister Stephanie provides hope and second chances to the residents of this neglected neighborhood, known as "Double Rock." From a Youth Outreach Ministry that serves close to 6,000 homeless families per year to the weekly neighborhood cleanups, she instills a sense of pride helping people see that "home" extends beyond their apartment walls. Click play below to view her inspirational story.

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