(Pictured above: Joyce Strauss receiving a special gift for 30 years of service from HCT Founder, Donna Becht)

On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, we gathered at Mustang Hall at Central Middle School for our annual Volunteer Recognition Reception to celebrate the incredible tutors who make Healthy Cities Tutoring possible. This year, 311 students across three school districts, 14 schools, and the Siena Youth Center were supported by our dedicated volunteer tutors.

A special highlight of the evening was honoring Joyce Strauss, our very first tutor, who has just completed her 30th year of tutoring with Healthy Cities Tutoring. We are deeply grateful for Joyce’s extraordinary commitment and the countless students whose lives she has impacted over the years. Donna Becht, founder of Healthy Cities Tutoring, shared a moving reflection on Joyce’s service and the organization’s early beginnings.

Healthy Cities Tutoring is fortunate to have a strong partnership with the Friends of the San Carlos Library. They have been valued supporters of ours and the many tutors and students who use the San Carlos Public Library as a meeting place each week. Linda Townsend, President of the Friends of the San Carlos Library Board, joined us to present a check and to highlight the benefits of our program.

We also recognized tutors celebrating milestone years of service:

20 YEARS: Joanne Chow

15 YEARS: Ben Wu

10 YEARS: Brian Murphy, Sara Mancini, Barbara Haas, Art Kauffman

5 YEARS: Gayle Hoch, Sarah Kelsey, Tracy Park, Alpa Vyas, Jon Burt, Frank Hane, Carol Rhodes, Barb Finnegan, Molly Rosenberg

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our tutors, staff, and supporters for the time, care, and dedication they bring to our students and families each year. Your commitment continues to strengthen our communities and help students succeed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Pictured above: Linda Townsend presenting Georganne Morin, HCT ED, and Irene Ruiz, HCT Board of Directors President with a check; 5 Years of Service Awardees; 20 Years of Service Awardee, Joanne Chow; and some of the assembled guests)