Congratulations to our September Changemaker of the Month, Ester Berry. She lives in Carmel Mountain Ranch, is a computer instructor at Rolling Hills Elementary and a seasoned volunteer. In addition to working with CLF for the past 3 years, Ester is currently the Chairperson of the CMR/Sabre Springs Parks and Recreation Council; Vice-Chair of the CMR/Sabre Springs Planning Group; a member of the Northeastern’s Police Captain’s Advisory Board, representing CMR; and Secretary to the Latino American Political Association (LAPA). Ester and her husband Matt are the proud parents of Christian, age 15, who is a junior at Mt. Carmel High School where he plays baseball.
Let’s get to know Ester a little better:
CLF: How did you get involved with CLF?
EB: I owe the pleasure of getting involved with CLF to Bill Reh, one of the team managers of my son’s local Little League. Bill and I had conversations about Home Run for Chelsea, and knowing my level of enthusiasm for baseball, for volunteerism, and for being there for a good cause–especially one involving helping children, Bill invited me to one of the planning meetings for HRC. It was at that first meeting that I learned the cause, the effect, and the impetus for HRC and met Brent King for the first time. I was moved and inspired to become involved with CLF!
CLF: What do you like best about CLF?
EB: Everything they stand for; everything they offer to others; the fight the Kings fight–specifically, turning a horrific, tragic event into a vision of hope for ALL children, by igniting laws to protect our children from predators. The spread of positive change–instilling hope in people, where they once saw none, and the strength and courage the Kings portray. Providing an opportunity for our youth to obtain scholarships, thereby instilling positive change in them/their families. The Kings’ “strength to choose hope” inspires me (and others) to be more; to do more than just simply exist in this world. In other words, to BE a life-long Changemaker.
CLF: How do you support CLF?
EB: Given my baseball connection, I have mainly been involved with the HRC event, and do all I can to encourage others to get involved, to participate, and to learn more about the WHY we go out of our way do host this annual event! Yes, baseball is played, but there is so much more to it than that! I look forward to the event every year!
CLF: What is your vision of CLF 5 years from now?
EB: Widening and tightening laws protecting children across the nation. Continued growth in the “movement” of creating Changemakers and inspiring others into action.
CLF: Tell us about your Hobbies/Interests:
EB: I dabble in photography, especially sports photography. Retail-therapy (shopping) is my favorite pass-time! Given how precious time is (and how little we have to spare), I get a lot of joy spending quality time with my family and friends and traveling to new places, especially by train!
Thank you, Ester, for all that you do to help us help others and keep Chelsea’s light burning bright!
