Scottsdale’s Neighborhood Advisory Commission recently named Mildred Heber and the Holland Center as the 2022 winners of the Spirit of Scottsdale Awards.
Since 2019, this annual awards program has recognized the people and places that embody the “Spirit of Scottsdale,” particularly through neighborhood stewardship and the ways in which a person or organization contributes to Scottsdale physically, aesthetically or socially.
The 2022 Individual award goes to Mildred Heber, who was nominated for her tireless efforts in volunteering with Scottsdale Human Services. A well-known figure at the Vista del Camino food bank with 14 years of volunteering experience, Mildred was quoted as telling those she mentors that she “won’t stand for any sloppiness or not following guidelines.” Mildred truly embodies the Spirit of Scottsdale in her commitment to providing excellent service to those in need.
The Holland Center
is the 2022 Organization award winner. Originated as The Foothills Community Foundation in 1986, The Holland Center is a nonprofit organization that provides a focal point for cultural programming, adult and youth education and community gatherings. Through the years, many vital community organizations have launched from an early association with the Holland Center – including the Foothills Food Bank and the Desert Foothills Land Trust. Today, the Holland Center supports neighborhoods by partnering with local and national speakers, artists, clinicians and community organizations to provide relevant information, resources, classes, desert awareness, leadership opportunities and activities for all ages – preschool through senior community members.
This year, the Neighborhood Advisory Commission received 36 nomination submissions, recognizing the work of nine individuals or organizations. The other nominees were:
- McDowell Sonoran Conservancy volunteer Magdiel Galan-Oliveras
- Multi-committee member Patricia “Patty” Jager
- Residents Steve & Jane Stevens for their heartfelt service to those in need
- Resident Carter Unger for his “community first” mindset
- Joyrides AZ for sharing Scottsdale’s rich history with visitors
- Pearl White Signature for keeping smiles beautiful in Scottsdale
- Southwest Foodservice Excellence for feeding more than 150,000 students statewide
The winners were recognized on Tuesday, March 21, with a presentation of the awards during the regular meeting of Scottsdale City Council. The nomination period for 2023 will open in May.
See photos of Mildred and Jennifer Rosvall, of the Holland Center, with Mayor David D. Ortega.
Learn more about the awards.
