Arthur Hecht Volunteer of the Year Chosen
Award winner Ken Li, Piedmont Community Service Crew founder and adviser, was presented with this year’s Arthur Hecht Volunteer of the Year Award at the May 12th, 2021. Board of Education meeting.
The award is presented each year to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the community and to Piedmont’s youth through volunteer service over a period of many years.
Art Hecht was well known as a volunteer dedicated to serving students in Piedmont and Oakland. He was a member of Piedmont’s Board of Education from 1970 to 1982, and instrumental in developing Millennium High School, Piedmont’s alternative high school. Established in 1998, the Arthur Hecht Award honors both Hecht’s memory and extraordinary individuals who continue his legacy of service.
Mr. Li has been an active volunteer since 1998 with several groups such as, the Boy and Girl Scouts of America, Piedmont Community Service Crew, Piedmont Service Group for Middle School, Piedmont Food and Cooking Crew, and High Adventure Group.
“Most every weekend throughout the year, if you showed up at the Tiny House Empowerment Village, St. Mary’s Senior Center, Native Plant Nursery, or a Rebuild Together Oakland family home site you might find Ken Li behind the camera photographing his students painting, cooking, or planting. What you won’t see is the thousands of hours Ken spends planning events, coordinating with community groups, mentoring students, recruiting youth and parent volunteers, and rolling up his sleeves to work side-by-side with students,” commented Jen Cavenaugh, Piedmont Parent and City Council Member.
“Ken’s positive impact on the Piedmont and surrounding community is evident by the large number of nominations he received,” commented Randy Booker, Superintendent. “He is well-deserving of this award and exemplifies a true heart of service to students everywhere.”
Mr. Li was presented with an art piece created by PHS AP Art Student Eleanor Andersen.
