The Port of San Diego honored Safe Harbor Coronado and Friends of Children United Society (FOCUS) with Anchors of Excellence awards for the month of December.
Chair Danielle Moore presented the awards at the Board of Port Commissioners meeting on Dec. 9 to both organizations for their continued service in the areas of youth engagement and community mental health.
Moore congratulated the recipients and said FOCUS has made a meaningful impact by providing essential resources to children and families in need, while Safe Harbor Coronado has continued to provide mental health support across the community.
“Both organizations exemplify what it means to uplift, support and strengthen our communities,” said Moore. “Your dedication makes our region a healthier and more connected place where everyone can thrive.”
Community focus
As a volunteer nonprofit in San Diego County, FOCUS is dedicated to improving the lives of children and teens in need, especially those who are disabled, homeless, in foster care, or from military families.
FOCUS provides material and financial support directly or through partner agencies, including essential items like clothing, diapers, car seats, school supplies and baby items.
Peggy Duncan, president of FOCUS, said the organization is committed to tirelessly delivering the resources — new shoes, hot meals, gifts during the holidays, or safe places to sleep — that bring hope and help at-risk kids and teens in the community.
“Our entire team at FOCUS is grateful to the Port of San Diego for honoring our work in support of vulnerable children in San Diego County,” said Duncan. “Together, we are creating a brighter future, one child at a time.”
Safe Harbor Coronado, a Coronado-based nonprofit organization, helps youth and their families navigate social, emotional and behavioral challenges.
Through a variety of programs, counseling, and community workshops, Safe Harbor supports emotional well-being, healthy relationships, communication skills and resilience across the Coronado community. Its mission is to provide accessible mental health counseling and community support services that address a wide range of issues including bullying, mental illness, grief and social connection.
Danielle Maske, executive director for Safe Harbor Coronado, said the organization is honored to be selected for their ongoing commitment to supporting the mental wellness of Coronado’s youth families and the greater community.
“This recognition from the Port is a meaningful acknowledgement of the work our team, volunteers, donors, and community partners make possible every day,” said Maske. “We are excited by this honor and excited to continue expanding our programs, raising vital funds, and championing the emotional wellness of children, teens, and families throughout Coronado.”
To learn more about the Anchors of Excellence program, visit: https://www.portofsandiego.org/anchors-excellence-awards.
