The YMCA of the Foothills presented the 2014 YMCA Pacesetter Award to the Gorvetzian family at a special donor recognition event on Dec. 4 at Oakmont Country Club. Hosted by YMCA board of director chair Kristin McQueen, the event featured special impact testimonials and a Christmas tree silent auction. Funds raised will support the Youth Leadership Endowment Fund.

The Gorvetzian family was recognized for their outstanding service and support not only of the YMCA of the Foothills but through their personal example have set the pace in the community in leadership and philanthropy.

Ken and Lori, along with children Christopher and Ashley, have been members of the Y since 1995 when Ken and Christopher joined Indian Guides. In 1998, Ken and Ashley continued the family tradition by joining Indian Princesses, Ken joined the YMCA board of directors in 1999 and served as chairman of the board, vice chairman, and member of the Executive Committee, Finance Committee, Investment Committee, Board Development Committee, Major Gifts Committee, the Annual Campaign and various YMCA tasks forces. In addition to his work at the Y, Ken served four years on the LCF Educational Foundation, was a member of LCHS Boosters and served as a coach for various AYSO soccer and La Cañada junior baseball/softball teams.

The Gorvetzians are active in countless other community organizations. Lori has been very active at La Cañada Elementary School having served as an executive officer on the PTA, co-chaired the LCE Halloween Haunt and was a room mom. Lori and Ashley were very involved with the National Charity League, Lori as a board member who chaired the annual fashion show, and volunteered at the NCL Rummage Sale, Red Cross Blood Drive and the Los Angeles Zoo. Christopher and Ashley volunteered with the Special Olympics, Christopher with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Ashley with the Tarrenat County Women’s Shelter.