Our 2026 Honorees
Chris and Bob Cloke
Today, the legacy of Chris and Bob Cloke is woven into the very fabric of West Valley Community Services. Guided by the motto, "Live simply so that others may simply live," their shared purpose took root in 1965 at Cal Poly. What began as a chance meeting over a physics assignment evolved into a lifelong partnership dedicated to placing the needs of others first.
Since 2004, Bob has been a quiet, constant presence at WVCS, lending his hands to whatever task the day requires. Chris’s commitment is equally vital, offering her expertise to create a bridge of support for local families. Their reach extends well beyond the agency’s walls; they even maintain a year-round donation barrel at their church. Through a seamless blend of material generosity, time, and humble devotion, the Clokes ensure their neighbors thrive, sustaining the agency’s mission from behind the scenes.
Young Men's Service League (YMSL)
Since its national founding in 2001, the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) has transformed the high school years into a season of shared purpose. With over 199 chapters across 24 states, the organization bridges the gap between generations, inviting mothers and sons to step out of their daily routines and into a mission of service. By combining hands-on philanthropy with a comprehensive four-year leadership and life-skills curriculum, YMSL empowers young men to become confident, compassionate leaders while fostering the unique bond between a mother and her son.
The Rancho Chapter, established in 2015, carries this mission forward in the heart of the South Bay, serving communities from Los Altos and Sunnyvale to Cupertino and Mountain View. With nearly 200 active members from local mainstays like Homestead, St. Francis,
and Monta Vista, the chapter is a vibrant force for good. Whether they are gathering fresh produce at farmers' markets for West Valley Community Services or supporting the Special Olympics, these mother-son teams commit to at least 20 hours of service annually - ensuring that the lessons of civic responsibility are learned through action and shared experience.
More than just a volunteer group, YMSL Rancho is a community of growth. From the first physics-like spark of a new challenge in the 9th grade to the Senior Recognition Banquet, the program provides a structured path for young men to develop practical skills and a heart for service. For the mothers and sons of the Rancho Chapter, these four years are not just a graduation requirement, but a lifetime of memories built on the simple, powerful act of showing up for their neighbors together.