Redlands resident Tom Kaney was named Community Champion of the Year by the Inland Empire chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals for using his woodworking talents to raise funds for local nonprofits.
Kaney was recognized with other honorees at AFP’s annual Philanthropy Day lunch at the Mission Inn Nov. 12. Other honorees included Rochford Foundation founders and Burrage Mansion owners Tim and Carol Rochford.
Kaney was nominated by Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Redlands Riverside. He has raised $32,000 for the Club and $102,000 for local nonprofits with his wood pieces.
All proceeds from Kaney’s cutting boards and other wood crafts go to local causes. Besides Boys & Girls Clubs, he has supported Ronald McDonald House, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, Redlands Family Services Association, Stater Bros. Charities, First Tee, Redlands Symphony, Bonnes Meres, Redlands Community Hospital, and Rally to Believe.
Since 2014, he’s put over 1,000 hours so far into making cutting boards, bread boards, cheese boards, name placards, bowls, and board games. It takes him 3 ½ hours to make each piece.
Besides woodworking, Kaney has spent time with youth at Boys & Girls Clubs. This year, he served as a judge for the Club’s Youth of the Year program, which recognizes youth for their commitment to school, service, and healthy living. Kaney came to like this year’s three Youth of the Year Ambassadors so much during judging that he matched the scholarship money they received with a personal donation.
“Tom’s generosity and creativity have had a huge impact on our kids, and we were happy to nominate him for the AFP award,” said Club CEO P.T. McEwen.
Boys & Girls Club offers programs after school and during school breaks year round to youth ages 5 to 18. All programs fall under academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. There are many ways to support the youth at the Club, including donations to support programs, volunteer time, and donations of items like school supplies