My whole life changed when Cheri Fleming asked me for a literal hand - Cheri had rheumatoid arthritis. For 22 Christmases and countless other occasions, I was her "hands." She empowered me in all aspects of life, including the nonprofit world, and then proudly watched me shine like the light she knew I was.
Cheri saw the light in everyone. It was her superhero skill. When I was 23, she brought me into Soroptimist, where I quickly became a board member, fashion show chair, Bras for a Cause founder and everything in between. I was just a kid, but Cheri proved that when you believed in someone they could do anything.
I lost track of how many boards I was on in those days, how many events I chaired and what I did to raise over $7,000,000 in my community - the best community ever. But you know who never lost track? Cheri. She was my biggest fan in all arenas. Her drawers were filled with photos of great accomplishments and our family traditions. Cheri saw the shining light in others so well because she was light.
While my relationship with Cheri was indeed special, I'm confident many others are reading this and would think they penned it themselves. That was the light of Cheri.
She graciously served many organizations all over the SCV and beyond but she kept her heart at Soroptimist. She served this organization on a literal global scale and was so proud to love and lift other women up for all the world to see their light.
We lost Cheri in November of 2020 after she suffered an aneurysm. As she left this earth, I held her hand in mine and told her what she started. I still feel her light every single day.
As this inaugural event - the Cheri Fleming Shining Star Legacy Award Luncheon - sets forth, I know she will be smiling from ear to ear to see others given a chance to be truly seen and acknowledged for service. On your way to the event, I hope you drive down Cheri Fleming Auto Center Drive - the light hits different there.

Sunday | June 12
Cheri Fleming Shining Star Legacy Award Luncheon
The Cheri Fleming Shining Star Legacy Award was created in honor of Cheri Fleming and her mission to give back to her community and empower others. All funds raised go to the Cheri Fleming Legacy at Soroptimist International. For more information and tickets, log on.
sigscv.org/cheri-fleming-shining-star-legacy-award/

GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE SCV
Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley
The Santa Clarita Valley Boys & Girls Club 50th Annual Benefit Auction returns in-person on Saturday, June 4. This year's theme - "Back to the Auction" - will be held at the Hyatt Regency Valencia featuring a gourmet dinner and live and silent auctions. Over 1,600 local young people ages 7 to 17 rely on the Santa Clarita Valley Boys & Girls Club, a place where they learn and grow. During the pandemic, the club stayed connected with students to support them during challenging times. Through your generosity, the Boys & Girls Club continues to build a brighter future for the children of the Santa Clarita Valley. We hope you can join in and help support after-school programs for local youth who need us the most. All proceeds from this event go directly to programs that create an impact in the community by inspiring and enabling the next generation of leaders. To support their mission, log on.
scvbgc.org

MISSION VALLEY BANK IS MORE THAN A COMMUNITY BANK
Mission Valley Bank's local roots run deep motivated by the desire to be an integral part of the area they serve. A strong community thrives on personal relationships and Mission Valley Bank supports - and is honored to be supported by - the Santa Clarita Valley. Mission Valley Bank is more than just another local bank. They are a full-service, independent, commercial bank that is locally-owned, community minded and relationship driven. They're proud to have earned their reputation as Trusted Advisors. Mission Valley Bank is as dedicated to their customers' success as they are. They appreciate their business and welcome the opportunity to earn yours.
Mission Valley Bank Santa Clarita Branch Office 753-5693