Johnny Higginson was selected as one of the five finalists for the 56th Annual Fernando Awards, held Saturday October 19th, 2014 at the Globe Theater in Universal Studios. The award is given to those from the San Fernando Valley, whose volunteering is for the purpose of making this a better community and helping others.
Johnny is the owner of the Rockin W Ranch in Shadow Hills. His Shadow Hills Riding Club works with those with disabilities using equine therapy and participates with “Saddles for Soldiers” to offer veterans the same. He has also worked with the Help Group for teens with autism, Phoenix House for at risk children and the Wounded Warriors Project for post 9 – 11 veterans.
Johnny was nominated by New “Heaven on Earth” Ranch (NHOER), a local 501 c (3) public charity located in Lake View Terrace. NHOER became a nonprofit member of the Fernando Foundation in 2013. This was their first year being able to nominate someone and Johnny was chosen as one of the finalists. It is a rare honor to have a first time nominator see their choice make the finals. Johnny’s message was on his presentation video presented before the gathered guests in the packed house. Both the business and political community of the San Fernando Valley heard his commitment to those in need first hand.
The Foothills also had finalist Mel Wilson from Pacoima, nominated by the North Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce. The Fernando Award was bestowed on Martin Cooper, nominated by the Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley and New Horizons. The winner is determined from the votes of Fernando Foundation members.
Hopefully, by someone being recognized from the equine community, it will lead to other opportunities to encourage more people in the greater San Fernando Valley to be involved, participate and support Johnny Higginson and NHOER to help people with disabilities.