Simi Valley Honors 13 Unsung Legends Who Quietly Keep the City Alive
Sylvie Belmond 
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Years ago, Jeff Konkle walked into the Samaritan Center of Simi Valley looking for a hot shower. Now he walks in to volunteer. His story is one of many. On June 7, the Simi Valley Community Council honored 13 people with its 2025 Community Service Recognition Award—an annual acknowledgment of residents who feed the hungry, preserve history and mentor the next generation, not for recognition, but because they believe in community.
The President’s Breakfast, held at the Best Western Posada Royale, brings together civic leaders and volunteers each year to spotlight those whose steady contributions help Simi Valley thrive.
Konkle, once without stable housing for more than 20 years, found help through the Samaritan Center. He now gives back four days a week, helping with grocery deliveries and unloading supplies. “The Samaritan Center gave me a reason to be here,” Konkle said in a story published by the center on Feb. 29.
Lorraine Erickson, a longtime member of the American Association of University Women’s Simi Valley branch, hosted the group’s annual chili cook-off fundraiser in 2013. She also serves on the board of the Simi Valley Community Council, according to the council’s website.
Salvator Almanza volunteers with The Arc of Ventura County, which supports more than 700 individuals with developmental disabilities through job training and life skills programs, according to the organization’s website.
Salwa Scarpone joined the board of the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation in 2022. Her appointment was confirmed by the Simi Valley City Council, according to meeting records.
Wendy Sengpiehl helps organize Wreaths Across America events through the Rancho Simi Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her work ensures that local veterans are honored during the holiday season, according to the group’s website.
Julia Hammon serves on the board of the Simi Valley Friends of the Library. The group organizes book sales and funds public programs for the city’s library system, according to its website.
Nellann Wilson, president of the Simi Valley Historical Society, has advocated for preserving historic structures at Strathearn Historical Park. Her husband, Harry Wilson, is also a volunteer with the group. Their work was highlighted in a May 2024 article in the Simi Valley Acorn.
Nick Esser is active in the Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley, which supports children’s literacy and scholarships through service projects, according to the organization.
Sharon Lorkowski of the Rotary Club of Simi Valley and Karen Thompson of Simi Sunrise Rotary were both recognized for their work leading community service efforts, including food drives and student awards.
Becky McGuigan volunteers with Soroptimist International of Simi Valley. The group provides grants and mentoring to women pursuing education and job training, according to its website.
Cherylnn Reyes operates Tiny Treasures Baby and Children’s Boutique, which distributes clothing and supplies to local families. Her volunteer work helps meet basic needs during times of hardship, according to local business directories.
Nigel “Tony” Boucher, a Vietnam veteran and co-founder of Simi Valley’s Museum of Military History, was honored for his dedication to preserving the stories of those who served. The museum, located in the Simi Valley Town Center, features hundreds of military posters and artifacts donated by local veterans and collectors. It offers a historical sequence of events from World War I to the present. More information about the museum is available on the Visit Simi Valley website.
In addition to recognizing volunteers, the event also marked the swearing-in of the Simi Valley Community Council’s 2025–2026 board of directors:
- President: Annika Sumby
- Immediate Past President: John Tolson
- Vice President of Membership: Sherie DeVillers
- Vice President of Programs: Pat Lewis
- Parliamentarian: Kat Shepherd
- Treasurer: Kent Alkire
- Secretary: Jennifer Frank
- Auditor: Gary Loeb
The Simi Valley Community Council was established in 1970 to bring together local nonprofits, coordinate resources and celebrate civic contributions. More information is available at svcommunitycouncil.org.
