Howard Prep celebrated individuals and organizations at Thursday’s second annual “Community Gathering of Heroes Awards” Luncheon whose service and leadership have helped its organization.
The special event took place at Howard Prep’s Witmer Hall and included box lunches prepared by clients.
The luncheon featured special guest speaker Sue Zwahlen, along with recognition of local leaders, volunteers, public servants, and business partners who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to serving others throughout Stanislaus County.
“Our honorees remind us that true leadership is not about recognition, but about action, showing up for others, inspiring hope, and making a difference where it matters the most,” said Jesus Munoz, executive director of the Stonum Road facility.
Howard Prep is formerly Howard Training Center and has been providing services to developmentally disabled clients for 70 years.
Brandy Montez, a manager, said the mission of Howard Prep is “centered on empowering individuals with the support, opportunities, and resources they need to live.
“They need to live meaningful, independent, and successful lives. Every day, we witness lives within transform throughout programs that build confidence, create opportunity, and strengthen our community. Through our Community Integration Program, participants are encouraged to engage with the world around them, through volunteer work, social activities, life skills, development, and meaningful community involvement. These experience help individuals grow in confidence while becoming active and valued members of their communities.”
The Home At Last program places adults with special needs host families.
“For many participants, having a safe and supportive place to call home becomes the foundation for independence, personal growth, and a brighter future,” said Montez.
She also noted that the culinary program “continues to inspire participants by teaching valuable culinary and workplace skills. Through hands-on experience, teamwork, and creativity, participants build confidence and prepare for a community within the good service industry and beyond.”
The event featured videos highlighting how Howard Prep has positively impacted clients’lives. One of them was a man named Rico who said working in the kitchen with others feels like family.
“I just love this place,” said Zhawlen. “I love the people, everything about it. I just do.”
“By giving people a place to learn, and receive the kind of assistance that we all need, everyone is set up for fulfillment whatever that may look like for them,” Zhawlen said. “Howard Prep is a place for people to learn, get hands-on job training, and build relationships.
“I’m so grateful that programs like this exist to make sure that no one is left behind and to provide opportunities to gain valuable life skills. Howard Prep has even been recognized at the state level, earning well-deserved prestigious awards to illustrate the breadth, the impact from Howard Prepp’s program. Their outreach has multiplied opportunities for partnership, benefiting various businesses, organizations, power prep students, and our community as a whole.”
Award recipients being honored include:
- Shane Parson given the “Excellence in Service Award.”
- Melissa Stiles, “Volunteer of the Year”;
- Jeff Pishney, “Community Leader of the Year”;
- Ceres Police Lt. Jeff Godfrey, “Guardian of the County Award”;
- Sara Ivey, “Business Partner of the Year.”
Guests enjoyed a light lunch prepared by Howard Prep participants and staff. Organizers emphasize that this is not a fundraising event, but rather an opportunity to raise awareness and celebrate community impact.
Howard Prep, formerly known as Howard Training Center, has served adults with disabilities for decades by providing vocational training, life skills development, and opportunities for greater independence and inclusion within the community.
