Teen Services to honor Sonoma Raceway with 2019 Champion Award

Teen Services Sonoma will honor Sonoma Raceway with its 2019 Champion Award at the nonprofit’s June 9 Cowboy Cab fundraiser.

“This award is a fitting way for us to acknowledge members of the community who guide, support and inspire TSS to help Sonoma Valley teens and young adults acquire work-readiness skills and experiences that empower them to succeed. Sonoma Raceway fits the bill perfectly,” said Becky Jo Peterson, Teen Services executive director, in a press release announcing the award.

Peterson said that the Raceway has provided Teen Services with infrastructure support, guidance and advice for more than a decade, noting in particular Raceway support for the Teen Center.

“Raceway staff provided us with expertise in working with outside contractors and architects to remodel the existing space, rolled up their sleeves for tasks big and small and produced a hangout for the teens to congregate after school, do their homework, socialize, bake cookies and pies,” said Peterson.

Peterson said that thanks to the support of Raceway President Steve Page, Vice President Jere Starks and other staff, the Teen Services building remains in good hands.

“Sonoma Raceway has been a loyal and faithful backer of Teen Services, and it is doubtful there would be a Teen Services today without their help in building our home for teens,” said Jean Hopeman, a founder of the organization.

The Raceway has supported Teen Services beyond its physical infrastructure, said Peterson, including helping to fund the Ready to Work program and hiring Teen Services teens to work for the Raceway – one of whom, Jose Martinez, still works there today.

Board co-chair Judy Scotchmoor summed it up: “They are always there for us and so it is with gratitude and pride that we recognize Sonoma Raceway as our 2019 TSS Champion.”

Last year’s Champion Award was given to Chuck and Cathy Williamson.

Cowboy Cab will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, at the Barn at Tyge William Cellars at Cornerstone Sonoma. For more information, visit teenservicessonoma.org/cowboy-cab-2019.html.