Red Shield benefits from decades of Kidz Day work by Cecilia and Pete Michelini

BY SABRA STAFFORD

When Cecilia and Pete Michelini were first approached about selling some Kidz Day newspapers at a busy Modesto intersection, they could not envision that it would lead them to a spiritual mission to better the lives of all those using the Salvation Army Modesto Red Shield.

For more than two decades the couple has been spearheading, organizing and maintaining the Kidz Day program, along with other efforts to benefit the Red Shield.

“Their help over the years has been priceless,” said Salvation Army Major Magaly Laubach. “Their commitment and dedication to the people who participate in our programs has encouraged others to get involved. Pete and Cecilia selflessly give of their time, talents and treasure to support us, and we are immensely touched and blessed by them. As volunteers, as well as in their roles within our Advisory

Council, their input and contributions allow us to provide the level of service our community needs and deserves. The Modesto Red Shield is a better place because of them and we are eternally grateful.”

It was in 1998 when the Michelinis were first approached about lending a hand to the Kidz Day program, which is a major fundraising effort for the Red Shield.

“Cecilia was the owner of Roller King when Kidz Day was in its infancy,” Pete said. “We were approached by The Red Shield to sell papers at Briggsmore and Prescott. We did so well that we were asked to join the Red Shield Advisory Council and the Kidz Day Committee.”

“Pete was also asked to join The Salvation Army Advisory Board,” Cecilia added.

“About a year later Cecilia was asked to Chair the Kidz Day Committee for a twoyear term,” Pete said. “Twenty-five years

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Under their leadership, the Kidz Day project has seen substantial growth.

“The Kidz Day Event has evolved over the years,” the couple said. “It went from a page in a newspaper to having an entire paper dedicated to the programs at the Red Shield, requiring more focus on our part. Each year we continue to achieve a greater level of organization in working with the dedicated volunteers.”

Though it is an immense amount of work, both Cecilia and Pete agree that the benefits they get from their involvement far outweigh the effort.

“We are overwhelmed by the support of our community,” they said. “We love working with our generous community volunteers. We have seen a generation of Red Shield children grow and prosper due to the programs and fellowship at the Red Shield. Seeing the smiles on the faces of these children is priceless.”

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