The Isabel P. Ruiz Humanitarian Award, held at The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, has announced this year’s recipient: Becky Jorgenson, founder of Hope’s Village of SLO and homeless services advocate.
Becky Jorgenson, longtime San Luis Obispo County resident, founded Hope’s Village of SLO a 501(c)(3) that provides housing for the homeless. Hope’s Village of SLO focuses on promoting community through using cost-effective tiny homes built by volunteers and future Hope’s Village residents.
After the success of Hope’s Village of SLO, Jorgenson went on to establish the Showers of Hope program and the RVs for Veterans program. To date, 85 RVs have been given to local homeless veterans.
The Isabel P. Ruiz Humanitarian Award annually recognizes an individual for outstanding efforts in advocating for underrepresented people in San Luis Obispo County. This award is designated to honor the individual’s dedication to the San Luis Obispo community as exhibited by the late Dr. Isabel P. Ruiz.
Dr. Ruiz immigrated to the United States from Peru in 1973 and worked as an OB/GYN medical doctor. Throughout her career, she advocated for healthcare affordability and accessibility. Dr. Ruiz was a strong role model for both the Latino community and women.
“We are proud to honor Becky Jorgenson as the 2019 Isabel P. Ruiz Humanitarian award recipient,” said Heidi McPherson, CEO of The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County. “Ms. Jorgenson is an advocate for the homeless population and her unrelenting efforts help to strengthen our community.
About The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a grantmaking and education foundation supporting charitable work across our county. Since 1998, The Community Foundation has supported our county with grants and scholarships totaling almost $35 million. The Community Foundation’s charitable assets under management have grown to nearly $60 million and provide support to all aspects of our community in perpetuity. For more information or to donate to any fund or establish a new fund, visit cfsloco.org or call 805-543-2323.