Ernie Hernandez to be honored at August 23 Fiesta
The executive director of Tulare County's United Way, Ernie Hernandez, will be celebrated on August 23rd at the Visalia Convention Center as Ruiz Foods and Ruiz 4 Kids present their annual honor for outstanding community service--the Ruiz Danza Award during their fundraising Fiesta.
"Ernie Hernandez has dedicated countless hours and expertise to build strong communities in Tulare County," said Fred Ruiz, Chairman and CEO of Ruiz Foods. "He has not only grown and strengthened the United Way of Tulare County, he has done the same for nonprofit organizations throughout the Central Valley, bringing a new high level of service and accountability."
Hernandez was raised in the Hanford area, obtained his education at the College of Sequoias and Fresno State University with a degree in Criminal Justice. After an internship at Soledad State Penitentiary, his focus turned to community service. Hernandez worked for the YMCA in Hanford for 7 years then relocated to Los Angeles where he put in another 7 years working with inner-city youth as a YMCA Executive Director. He returned to the Central Valley as the executive director of the United Way of Tulare County, a position he has excelled at for over 20 years. In addition,
Hernandez a board member for the California Association of Nonprofits (CAN), a member of the Northern California Community Loan Fund's advisory board, a member of the Sequoia Lake YMCA board, and also a member of the Kiwanis of Exeter.
Ruiz Foods and Ruiz 4 Kids believe the danza is a relevant symbol of those who, like Ernie Hernandez, contribute and work to form a strong circle empowering the communities. The Ruiz Danza Award pays tribute to a person who has given an abundance of service during their life—a person who has teamed together and worked with others for the betterment of the community. The danza is referred to as a "circle of friends"—a humble piece of terra cotta folk art dating back to Mayan times. Its pre-Columbian design is rooted in the custom of gathering around a fire to celebrate peace and friendship. Legend contends the "circle of friends" dancers will never let go of each other's arms. Inextricably entwined, they represent an ancient ceremonial dance symbolizing the unbroken circle of friendship.
Hernandez will be presented the Ruiz Danza Award during the Ruiz 4 Kids Fiesta which benefits four dynamic South Valley organizations serving children with a new, vibrant and lively atmosphere featuring everything from Folklorico dancers to mechanical bull rides. The fundraiser offers an action-packed evening for adults featuring Western entertainers, a Texas Hold 'Em tournament, a Mexican dinner, old time photos and a Western quick draw contest.
"Whether you like trick roping, Mariachi music or a piñata contest, there will be something for everyone, including a $5,000 grand prize drawing," said Fred Ruiz, company co-founder and chairman and CEO of Ruiz Foods. "This year it's all about having fun for important causes. We want our communities to come out and enjoy themselves and celebrate this year's beneficiaries for their great work."
The 2008 beneficiaries are: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California, CASA of Tulare County, Visalia YMCA, and Wish Upon A Star.
With the assistance of the Ruiz Family, team members from Ruiz Foods created the Ruiz 4 Kids organization with a mission to make a difference in the lives of children. Since 1991, Ruiz 4 Kids has distributed well over $1 million to non-profit organizations focused on helping kids in the San Joaquin Valley. Just this year, Ruiz 4 Kids distributed a record $140,100 in college scholarships to 179 students with funds raised through their annual golf invitational.
Ruiz 4 Kids raises crucial funds for outstanding community-based nonprofits serving the critical needs of our Central Valley children. In 2007, the Embracing Children's Dreams event raised a total of $193,000 which was donated to four local organizations serving children and youth.
The doors to the August 23 event open to the general public at 6 p.m. Attendees must be 18 and over. Tickets are $100. Contact Ruiz 4 Kids at 591-5510 X2118 or visit www.ruiz4kids.org for ticket or sponsorship information.