BWC celebrates 40th anniversary with Big Heart award

BONSALL – The February meeting of the Bonsall Woman's Club is always special, members said. This year's meeting, they have the trifecta: The club's Big Heart award was presented, past presidents and charter members were honored, and it is the club's 40th anniversary.

The Big Heart award is presented to that member whose selfless devotion to community service, whether overt or behind the scenes, personifies the true meaning of volunteerism. The awardee is selected by a committee made up of the current president and the three most recent recipients and is presented to coincide with Valentine's Day.

This year's recipient is Sydne Gilbert. She can be relied on to assist wherever and whenever needed. She is a team player, taking the lead on a project and is equally willing to work in a less demanding but time-consuming roles. Gilbert currently is a member of the club's board of directors serving as the membership chair.

At one point, there was an unexpected need for someone to administer the BWC's Facebook page. No one stepped up to the challenge. When asked, Gilbert said, "I will find the time and do it."

She also took the lead in creating and heading up the Critter Causes project for the club. Not only did she give of her spare time for the benefit of the project, she herself, has rescued several dogs and a cat.

The club has grown accustomed to Gilbert being relied on to help when the need arises. She also finds the time to volunteer in charities outside of the club. The selection committee felt she was a most deserving recipient of this award. The membership concurred in Gilbert being presented the Big Heart Award by giving her a standing ovation.

Submitted by Bonsall Woman's Club.