A man giving back to his community is a noteworthy action; Steven Heuring received the “Giving Back to the Community Award” presented by Santa Barbara County Action Network June 3, at the Santa Maria annual awards ceremony.
Heuring is a hard-working man who actively participates and organizes events to better the area. He is a part of several organizations, all of which give back to his community, Vandenberg Village. He was given this award for the tireless hours he has contributed to the community.
Those who are acquainted with Heuring, know he is a humble man and he’s always doing things for other people.
“I have a hard time saying no when people ask for favors,” said Steven Heuring, 30th Space Wing Public Affairs visual information specialist.
Heuring grew up in a large family and although there were seven siblings to split the chores, the expectation to continue helping never stopped. He acknowledges the way he was raised to be the cause of his volunteer work.
“My siblings and I would be admonished by our parents and grand-parents to "make ourselves useful," there was no such thing as standing around and watching someone else work,” said Heuring. “I believe this particular work ethic and my charitable nature stuck with me into my adult life.”
Although Heuring has a full time job and is constantly doing things around his own home, he also enjoys fixing and enhancing his community in his spare time.
“The Vandenberg Village Association is an organization dedicated to the enhancement of our community,” said Heuring.
This group is part of a coalition of community service organizations that are working to build a new park, playground and a place for families to gather. As president of this association, Heuring and the other members began collaborating on this plan in 2013 when over an acre located in the central part of Vandenberg Village was donated for the project. With all the enhancements they hope to achieve, the project will cost a total of 800,000 dollars.
“If you want other folks to care about their community, you have to demonstrate what that means,” said Heuring.
During Heuring’s 26 years of active duty Air Force he adopted “lead by example,” which is taught to all Airmen when they join the service. His actions display this essential core value.
“I do things without expecting any recognition,” said Heuring. “You see a need or an opportunity to improve and you just do it.”
Throughout all of his community clean-ups, countless fund raising events, and his overall selfless demeanor, Heuring was applauded for all he does within his community.
“I’m honored that someone thought enough about me and what I do to recognize it,” said Heuring.