Chino Valley Fire District Captain Recognized For Work With Children

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Captain Scott Atkinson of the Chino Valley Independent Fire District was recognized by the San Bernardino County Children's Network with their 11th annual Shine a Light on Child Abuse Award during an Awards Breakfast Wednesday, according to Massiel Ladron De Guevara of the Chino Valley Fire District. This award honors those that "go the extra mile for children and who gives selflessly in an effort to make a difference."

The Chino Valley Independent Fire District nominated Captain Atkinson for his dedication to both the Spark of Love Toy Drive and the Make a Child Smile family of programs. He has been a driving force behind the Spark of Love Toy Drive in the Chino area for the past 16 years as well as establishing the Make a Child Smile family of programs. Part of those programs is Code 3 Delivery, which brings together Chino Valley Fire District Firefighters, local law enforcement personnel and Wal-Mart staff to provide a shopping experience for underprivileged children chosen by the school district. In 2008, 81 students were chosen to spend $130 each to shop for toys, shoes, clothing, sports equipment and other things they may need.

Another part of the Make a Child Smile family of programs is the Special Delivery program which provides holiday gifts and a reception for the children at Hillview Ares, a home for abused and neglected children. Firefighters also hosted over 200 seniors at the Senior Center in Chino and 40 children at Hillview Acres as a part of the program, according to De Guevara.

Over the years, Captain Atkinson has logged thousands of hours developing, creating, planning and putting on numerous programs throughout the Fire District. the Make a Child Smile family of programs has merged with the Fire Foundation. On behalf of the Fire Foundation, a donation of $3000 was made to the Family in Need program for the school district.