Chip-In Hall of Fame Award

The City of Citrus Heights Chip-In Hall of Fame Award is a volunteer recognition program celebrating residents who make a meaningful impact in our community. This award honors individuals who embody our Citrus Heights Cares initiative by "Chipping In"—whether through beautification efforts, acts of kindness, or dedicated volunteerism. These are the unsung heroes who give back selflessly, expecting no recognition but truly deserving it.

Nominate a Chip-In Champion

On Wednesday, March 11th, we invited residents to nominate outstanding individuals who go above and beyond to improve our city. The nominees were invited to our Volunteer Appreciation Reception on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, where we announced the award recipient. The winner will be announced through our social media channels after the event.

2026 Key Dates

  • February 25 – March 11: Nominations accepted
  • Week of March 30: Nominees and Winner notified
  • Two people posing for a photo.April 8 (5:00–5:45 p.m.): Volunteer Appreciation Event & Award Presentation

The awardee is selected anonymously by a panel of community leaders and City staff based on nomination submissions.

2026 Hall of Fame Award Recipient, Irene Hronicek

"Irene has been a cornerstone of Citrus Heights HART since 2016, providing nearly a decade of steady, compassionate leadership. As Board Chair and RAP Committee Chair, she helps families avoid eviction and remain safely housed, actively reviewing cases and guiding thoughtful funding decisions. She also leads HART’s Winter Sanctuary, coordinating shelter, meals, and care for unhoused residents during the coldest months. From logistics to volunteer coordination, she ensures guests feel welcomed and respected. Irene embodies servant leadership—consistently showing compassion, reliability, and a deep commitment to serving others. Her dedication has helped shape HART into a trusted and impactful community organization."

Click through the carousel to view the 2026 nominees!

Will Wren-Rodriguez

“Will has been a steadfast member of PONA for 10 years, serving as treasurer and even taking a turn as president. He faithfully attends meetings, even when only a few board members are present. Will is also active in his HOA, Northridge Little League, and as a parent at Cambridge Heights Elementary. Citrus Heights is a better community because of people like Will."

Will Wren-Rodriguez Profile

Alfred Sanchez

“Alfred Sanchez (Snackman) has been there for all members of our community, especially helping those experiencing homelessness. He goes out almost every day handing out snacks and socks while also connecting individuals to resources to help improve their lives. He stands up for everyone’s rights and is deeply appreciated by those he serves. His acts of service, kindness, and dedication have made a meaningful difference in our community.”

Alfred SanchezProfile

Irene Hronicek

"Irene has been a cornerstone of Citrus Heights HART since 2016, providing nearly a decade of steady, compassionate leadership. As Board Chair and RAP Committee Chair, she helps families avoid eviction and remain safely housed, actively reviewing cases and guiding thoughtful funding decisions. She also leads HART’s Winter Sanctuary, coordinating shelter, meals, and care for unhoused residents during the coldest months. From logistics to volunteer coordination, she ensures guests feel welcomed and respected. Irene embodies servant leadership—consistently showing compassion, reliability, and a deep commitment to serving others. Her dedication has helped shape HART into a trusted and impactful community organization."

Irene Hronicek Profile

Ruth Fox

“I have worked with Ruth for several years.  She always goes above and beyond without a single word of complaint.  If something needs to be done for this community, she is the person who takes the ball and runs with it!  I can't thank her enough for all she does.”


Ruth Fox Profile

Katie Escajeda

“Katie embodies the spirit of altruism. Since her teenage years as a member of Mesa Verde Key Club, she has given over 15 years of her life to helping others. She expanded her community impact by serving as a multi-term President of the Kiwanis Club of Citrus Heights, where she has spearheaded new service initiatives and devoted thousands of hours to the Citrus Heights community. She has led our Kiwanis Club into new partnerships with our non-profits, helped us charter new Key Clubs, recruited more new members to our club, and mentored them into becoming dedicated volunteers themselves.”


Katie Escajeda Profile

Kevin Jackson

“Kevin Jackson embodies what it means to be a volunteer. He supports neighbors in the Crosswoods community, especially elderly residents, helping with everything from moving to home projects.

He regularly improves HOA spaces by trimming trees and maintaining common areas. Kevin also serves on the HOA board, continuing his commitment to the community.

Whether organizing, assisting neighbors, or improving shared spaces, Kevin gives his time selflessly and consistently enriches the lives of those around him.”

Kevin Jackson Profile

Michael Lagomarsino

“Michael is the definition of someone who quietly “chips in” every day. He has volunteered with the Citrus Heights Police Department since its early days, becoming a reliable and valued presence.

He approaches every task with care, from administrative support to operational duties, always ensuring things are done thoroughly. Michael is also a strong steward of public resources and a positive ambassador for the department.

Known for his knowledge and positivity, Michael’s dedication and consistency make a lasting impact on the city and those he works with.”

Michael Lagomarsino Profile

Gigi Rayford

“I’m honored to nominate Gigi Rayford for her dedication to strengthening Citrus Heights through veterans advocacy, arts leadership, and community engagement. She has helped veterans access earned benefits and played a key role in bringing The Wall That Heals to Citrus Heights.

Gigi also founded Citrus Heights Art and the CH 40 Arts District, creating opportunities for local artists and bringing murals and creative projects throughout the city. Her leadership has resulted in numerous projects that celebrate the community’s identity and history.

Her passion, creativity, and commitment have made a lasting, positive impact on Citrus Heights.”

Gigi Rayford Profile

Gretchen Fau

“Gretchen has volunteered twice weekly at the food closet for the last 5 years. She serves our community with a positive can-do attitude that is infectious.Her love for the planet and it's limited resources helps the food closet to be better stewards of the food we recover. She is a champion of limiting food waste whenever possible. Gretchen is a key volunteer at the food closet and a valued member of our ministry family.”


Gretchen Fau Profile

Dede Zampardi

“Dede has volunteered at the food closet for well over 10 years. I couldn't tell you exactly how long but she dedicated her life to our ministry a long time ago. She keeps the tasks she is assigned to moving and clients benefit greatly from her hard work. During her time at the food closet I do not think it is an exaggeration to say she has cleaned and repackaged thousands maybe even 100,000 eggs for distribution. Dede is a model volunteer and an example for us all.”

Dede Zampardi Profile
Ronald Souza Profile

Ronald Souza

“Ron has consistently volunteered at the food closet 3-4 days a week for over 10 years. He helps our homeless pantry to stay stocked with food from 7-11 stores as well as delivering food boxes to home-bound seniors in our community.He is honest, kind and hardworking.We can always count on Ron to step up when a last-minute need comes up. He is a wonderful example to our other volunteers.”


Robert Perricone Profile

Robert Perricone

“Robert is a shelf-stocking machine. Without his dedication to our ministry it would be extremely difficult to receive canned food donations from the community. The number of hours it takes to date/quality check and sort donations makes it a full-time job, and he does it 3-4 days a week without being asked or a single complaint. He takes out the trash and restocks the shelves for the following day so volunteers can hit the ground running. Robert has served at the food closet for over 5 years. We would have struggled to keep up with demand through COVID without Robert's dedication to the food closet.” 

Heather Pardee Profile

Heather Pardee

“Heather has volunteered at the food closet weekly for the past 5 years. She keeps the goodie bags flowing for our clients. Each bag she packs with care and heart. She is very committed to our ministry and seeks out additional opportunities to serve when she can. We appreciate the passion for service that she brings to the food closet. She is a great example to anyone wanting to get out in the community and give back.”


Dominic Papa Profile

“Dominic is a dedicated volunteer who helps keep Citrus Heights clean and welcoming. Since 2012, he has regularly removed illegal and abandoned signs throughout the city.

He shows up rain or shine with a positive attitude and strong commitment to maintaining the safety and appearance of public spaces. His consistent efforts help improve quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”

Gary Maden Profile

Gary Maden

“Gary Maden has dedicated over a decade of volunteer service with the Citrus Heights Police Department. He supports traffic operations, assists with DUI checkpoints, and helps address neighborhood blight through patrol and reporting.

He also supports community events like “Chip Chip Hooray,” ensuring safe and organized operations. Known for his professionalism and respectful approach, Gary plays a key role in maintaining safe, clean streets and supporting city efforts.”

Emma Gleckman Profile

Emma Gleckman

“Emma Gleckman has made significant contributions as a volunteer intern with the Citrus Heights Police Department. She has supported investigations, conducted research on community issues, and helped improve coordination across teams.

Her work with the Missing Persons Unit and her strong analytical skills have helped streamline processes and improve community response. Emma’s initiative and dedication have made a meaningful impact.”

Jonathan Spaur Profile

Jonathan Spaur

"Jonathan has volunteered 2-3 days per week for the last 2 years while attending classes at American River College. He came to us as a volunteer in 2024 and transitioned to a work experience program through the State of California. We are grateful for his dedication and willingness to commit his time to the food closet."