Nearly 800 people representing local governments, businesses, schools, community organizations, and the faith community as well as parents and youth attended Project Cornerstone’s annual Asset Champions Awards Breakfast on Thursday, March 19 at the Fairmont San José. The event honored the individuals and organizations whose commitment to building positive relationships with young people makes Silicon Valley a better place for young people to live and grow.

The 2009 Asset Champions Breakfast celebrated Project Cornerstone’s tenth anniversary of serving Silicon Valley through programs that strengthen families, neighborhoods, communities, and schools, and by ensuring that young people’s needs are addressed in public policy. Co-masters of ceremony were Julia Pasek, Ann Sobrato High School senior, and San José Police Chief Robert L. Davis. Speakers included Colleen Wilcox, Executive Director of the Silicon Valley Alliance for Teachers and Shana McLean Moore, president of the Castillero Middle School PTA, who delivered a testimonial about the importance of community in her family’s life. Entertainment was provided by sisters Shannon and Megan Haley, who sang “For Good” from the musical Wicked, and the Chinese Dancers from Williams and Guadalupe Elementary, who performed the traditional dances “The Ribbon Dance” and “The Dance of Lift Your Veil.” Kathy Riggins, President and CEO of the YMCA of Silicon Valley, presented the first Corporate Asset Champion award to Kaiser Permanente for their excellence in ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

The annual Asset Champions Breakfast is Project Cornerstone's largest event, held not only to raise awareness of asset-building and its champions but also to motivate and inspire the many groups and individuals who already provide positive, meaningful support to young people every day. We give special thanks to the many, many volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this event a success.

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