Staff Report
The Santa Ynez Chapter of the National Charity League honored graduating seniors March 3 at its annual Senior Recognition dinner at Rancho San Antonio.
At the dinner, attended by family and friends, chapter members celebrated the accomplishments of each of the girls in the Class of 2018 and recognized their contributions to the community during their six years of service in NCL.
The group of seniors, who are students at Santa Ynez Valley High School, Dunn High School and Olive Grove Charter School, have performed in excess of 1,730 hours of community service in the valley throughout the past six years.
Rachel Staude received the Senior Service Award, given to a senior Ticktocker who has accomplished the most cumulative philanthropic service hours as a member of NCL. She performed 430.75 hours of service supporting a range of local NCL chapter philanthropies, most notably the Santa Ynez Valley Therapeutic Riding Program.
“I have enjoyed volunteering with my mom, creating new friendships, and experiencing magical cultural events during my six years,” said Rachel Battaglia. “I’ve learned useful skills like how to set a table, properly drink tea, and give a presentation. National Charity League Inc. has stretched me and taught me how to present myself in a respectable manner.”
Rachel said she has gained a greater appreciation for different forms of art, especially the opera and almost any other live performances, and volunteering for the Elverhoj Museum of Art and History.
“I plan to attend university in the fall, study nursing and then follow my heart with where I end up working. I will forever be involved in volunteering my time and abilities,” Rachel said.
The mission of the NCL is to foster mother-daughter relationships in a philanthropic organization committed to community service, leadership development and cultural experiences.
The Santa Ynez Chapter was formed in 1994 and in the past year its members have served more than 1,693 volunteer hours in support of 16 charitable organizations in the Santa Ynez Valley.
