Local builder receives Bronze Eagle Award for providing humanitarian aid
Local builder receives Bronze Eagle Award for providing humanitarian aid
By: Carin Enovijas
Description: William Beirne and wife Judy feed children around world, and in their Tehachapi homes
Topics:
Posted by editor Tue Nov 30, 1999 00:00:00 PST
Viewed 925 times
0 responses 1 comment Local builder William Beirne was chosen as KidCare International’s Humanitarian of the Year, and was honored with the organization’s Bronze Eagle Award for his exemplary efforts helping suffering and needy children around the world. The ceremony took place during a neighborly backyard barbeque ceremony at one of Beirne's Heritage Oaks model homes on June 1.
“I didn’t expect anything like this, they just sprung this on me,” said Beirne after accepting the award. “I know where every penny of my dollar goes, that’s why I’m with this organization,” said Beirne who has helped KidCare International send food, clothing and medical supplies to needy children in Africa, Russia, India, Mexico and the United States.
Founder and president of the organization, Larry Kapchinski and his wife, Janice, presented the award to brother-in-law William Beirne and his wife, Judy, for as he said, “Being totally committed to making the world a better place.”
The Kapchinskis credited the Beirnes’ for their generosity dating back to their early years together, when Bill, as he is called by family and friends, worked as a house framer. “If they knew anybody in need, they would take groceries or clothing to people when they didn’t have anything,” said Janice, adding that Bill still feeds his workers every Friday afternoon.
“He’s not a rich, fat-cat; he started out as a framer, and he kept on going,” said Janice Kapchinski, who commends the Beirnes for their survival and perseverance through many of their own setbacks, including the loss a child. “When something like that happens, you either lose your mind, or you do something positive in life,” said Kapchinski.
The result of their positive attitude and perseverance helped to create the award the Beirnes were presented with. Larry Kapchinski explained to the crowd that the Bronze Eagle Award was chosen as representation of the strength.
“Bronze is a strong, working metal,” Kapchinski said. "It’s not glitzy like gold or silver, but the result of two things mixed together. Action and attitude.”
Kapchinski went on to commend Beirne for his actions as “doer, not just a talker,” and for his, “Attitude of the heart. That desire to help.”
Kapchinski described the bronze statue of a bird in flight as representing “the eagle, who soars above, seeing the world from a different perspective.”
The Beirnes were congratulated by city staffers, including Tehachapi Community Development Director David James. “I think it’s fantastic,” said James. "I’ve known Bill for four years now, and he’s a wonderful gentleman.”
“I didn’t know he was so involved (with KidCare), but it doesn’t surprise me,” James said, adding that, “It is quite an honor to be recognized (as a humanitarian). It’s well deserved.”
While Beirne only admits to being part of KidCare for four years, Janice Kapchinski said he’s been a regular supporter for more than 20 years.
KidCare is primarily a volunteer driven organization that, “strives to make a lasting difference in the quality of life for orphans and desperately disadvantaged children in our global community.” KidCare has sent more than $1 million in relief supplies, in one year, to Russia, Mexico, and India.
“People tend to forget what an incredible country we live in,” said Kapchinski, who has helped to establish an AIDS/HIV clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa, as well as provide relief to children displaced by Hurricane Katrina. “So many children go to bed hungry every day. Or they are taking care of two parents with AIDS. Many are left alone to raise themselves,” said Kapchinski of the children he has personally met during his regular trips abroad.
“It’s not just foreign children,” said Janice Kapchinski, noting that five Pomona schools are currently receiving assistance from KidCare. “Principals tell us that these children are going to bed hungry, and often the only meal they get is at school.”
“We are so blessed in this country, and it’s up to us to help those who don’t have the same (advantages),” proclaimed Kapchinski.
More information about KidCare International can be found online at www.KidCare.org/.
| Send to a Friend | Report a Violation |
Sun Jun 4, 2006 14:44:45 PDT
Bernie and Janice -- Bless you both -- a million times. I am humbled by your sheer humanity; and you two are exemplars of living a life of fullness -- and grace. Respectfully.
