Black Diamond Community Center in the News

The Black Diamond Community Center processed more than 1,500 pounds of food collected in one week through Hunger Action Week, part of United Way of King County in March and prepared them to go out to those in need, according to a report Monday by Cheryl Hanson, executive director of the center.

Several local organizations were involved in the effort including Black Diamond Elementary School, Cub Scout Pack 459 of Maple Valley, Cub Scout Pack 581 of Black Diamond, Thunder Mountain Middle School, Lake Sawyer Christian Church’s youth group, Holman Distributions, Betty and Ryan at the Black Diamond Cenex, and individual friends of the center.  Hanson also recognized Trevi Eichelberger for free dental supplies.

"These special gifts are very much appreciated by all those who need a little help during hard times," said the report. "The pain of hunger can be reduced with the help of wonderful giving people like those from the Black Diamond community."

If you're interested in donating food to the community center, please contact Hanson at 360-886-1011.

A Local Hero

Hanson also reported that Ginger Passarelli-Senecal, or "Mama Ginger," is one of two recipients for the 2012 Frank Kampsen Community Spirit Award, presented by the Behind the Badge Foundation.

Quoting a section of a letter to Passarelli-Senecal from Kit Ford, the executive director of the foundation: "Ginger, your face, has become synonymous with bringing comfort and a little taste of peace to those within the thin blue line.  You are cherished and loved by many law enforcement officers and their family members – you have touched many lives serving others.  You and the 'Soup Ladies' also fed many of us as we assisted with the planning as well as during the line of duty death memorial services over these past few years.”

Ford invited Passarelli-Senecal as a guest to the Foundation's 14th Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Ball and Auction on Saturday, April 14 in SeaTac so she can receive her award.