RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The language of basketball filled the room at City Hall on March 13, but the focus was on a different kind of performance, the kind measured in hours volunteered, lives impacted and communities strengthened.

At the 26th annual Cordova Community Council Volunteer Awards, residents, nonprofit leaders and city officials gathered to recognize what organizers called the city’s “most valuable players” in service. This year’s theme, “March Volunteer Madness,” framed the evening around teamwork, resilience and behind-the-scenes contributions.

“Tonight, the real champions aren’t on the basketball court, they are right here in this room,” said Cordova Community Council Executive Director, Shelley Blanchard, “Tonight, we celebrate the all-stars of service. The individuals and organizations whose time, generosity and heart, make Rancho Cordova an incredible place to live, to work and to belong. And just like in basketball, no one wins alone.”

Mike Marando served as the emcee for the evening with awards being presented by Vice Mayor Linda Budge. Photo by Rick Sloan

The ceremony, held at Rancho Cordova City Hall, honored eight recipients spanning youth mentorship, public safety support, neighborhood leadership and food access. Mike Marando, a 1973 Cordova High School graduate and president of the Rancho Cordova Sports Hall of Fame, served as emcee. Awards were presented by Vice Mayor Linda Budge, with selections made by a volunteer committee.

Among the honorees was the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy Sacramento, which received the Distinguished Service by a Faith Community award. The group provides on-call emotional and spiritual care to law enforcement officers, families and community members during emergencies and loss.

“Our chaplains consider it a privilege to support those who serve our community often in difficult and unseen ways” said Senior Chaplain Debra Fontes. “We are grateful for the opportunity to walk beside each of you and to extend care, hope and faith into the places where it’s most needed.”

Cassie and Alex Reyes were recognized for Outstanding Service to Youth through their work with the Rancho Cordova Little League. Mirando described their leadership as steady and consistent, particularly during a difficult transition period for the league.

Cassie and Alex Reyes were recognized for Outstanding Service to Youth through their work with the Rancho Cordova Little League. Photo by Rick Sloan

“To be recognized for something we care so deeply about means so much,” Cassie Reyes said. “The kids remind us every day why this work matters. They inspire us just as much as we hope to inspire them.”

Business owner Brad Silverbush of Chick-fil-A Rivergate Cordova received the Distinguished Community Business Partner award for his ongoing support of local schools, from student employment opportunities to donations and outreach.

“I’m the luckiest guy in the room,” Silverbush said. “This community allows us to get out and do everything we can to give back.”

Judy Ho was named Neighborhood Champion for her hands-on efforts to strengthen connections in Rio Del Oro organizing events and encouraging participation.

“I wanted to plant roots and get involved,” Ho said. “Being a neighborhood champion is a lot of work but the nice thing about showing up is that I get the opportunity and the gift to create, influence, witness and be in a room of amazing people.”

Judy Ho was named the 2026 Neighborhood Champion for her hands-on efforts to strengthen connections in Rio Del Oro organizing events and encouraging participation. Photo by Rick Sloan

Rick Sloan, named Distinguished Community Service Individual, was recognized for decades of volunteer photography documenting city events and milestones. His work has created an informal archive of Rancho Cordova’s growth and identity.

“I wanted to make a difference, I want to have a legacy,” Sloan said. “This community gave me the opportunity to do that. I didn’t grow up in Rancho Cordova, but I’ve always considered myself a Rancho Cordovan, this has been my calling card.”

The Distinguished Community Service Organization award went to the American River Bike Patrol and Cordova High’s Velo Lancers. Together, the groups provide trail safety and youth cycling education, including a program that introduces students to long-distance riding, maintenance and first aid.

“The real honor is what we receive from working with these young people,” said Bike Academy Adviser Rich Fowler. “We share a little biking experience; they share their lives.”

The Distinguished Community Service Organization award went to the American River Bike Patrol and Cordova High’s Velo Lancers. From left are John Poimiroo and Rich Fowler. Photo by Rick Sloan

Carrie Johnson, executive director of the Rancho Cordova Food Locker and Community Food Hub, was named Rancho Cordovan of the Year for reshaping how food assistance is delivered in the city. Under her leadership, the organization has moved beyond a traditional distribution model to create a grocery-style model designed to preserve dignity for families seeking assistance.

“Food is never just food,” Johnson said. “It’s dignity, stability, connection and love. When a community chooses to care for one another in that way, it changes lives.”

Organizers said the awards highlight not only individual achievement but also a broader culture of volunteerism in Rancho Cordova.

“Every team needs people willing to step up and play their role,” Mirando said. “That’s what makes this community work.”