Peter Joers, Washington President at Bank of America, congratulates Tom Kobayashi on his Local Hero Award at the Puget Sound 2009 Neighborhood Excellence Initiative Awards on Tuesday, Oct. 27.
Tom Kobayashi is one of the Puget Sound awardees of Bank of America’s philanthropic program, the Neighborhood Excellence Initiative.
Kobayashi, who was recognized as a “Local Hero” for his dedication to improving the community through leadership and volunteerism, was awarded a $5,000 grant that he would direct to a nonprofit of his choice. He decided to donate his grant to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
Kobayashi, 93, is in his 73nd year of volunteer service at St. Vincent de Paul. He has made weekly or biweekly home visits to the poor and needy of the community. He has helped countless people by securing food, clothing, furniture, beds, rent, and utility assistance. ♦
*Updated 10/29/09 to updated Kobayashi’s age and Joers title.