KNX Hero of the Week

For the past four and a half years, Karen Lizarraga and her family have fostered about 200 animals in Southern California! From big dogs to infant puppies and kittens that need to be bottle fed, they are making a difference in our community, and helping shelters make room for more animals. Click to hear Karen Lizarraga share with KNX Hero’s host Heather Jordan on how they do it, involving the entire family! Photo: The Lizarraga family with some of their pets. (Image courtesy of Karen Lizarraga ) https://sdhumane.org/

She’s lending her voice and making a difference! Deborah Pearl is the director and co-founder of the National In Choir, based in Los Angeles. It was also co-founded by singer Rosemary Butler, and every holiday season for the past 46 years, the group of volunteer vocalists have gathered together to perform carols in Skid Row, the Motion Picture Home, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, LA Mission and so many more places. Click to hear Deborah share a bit of their story with KNX Hero's host, Heather Jordan. Photo: Deborah Pearl (center) directing a group of singers outside of the Music Center. (Courtesy of Deborah Pearl). Connect with the National In Choir by sending an email to Deborah at https://deborahpearl.com

Steve and Patty Tiso of Irvine are partners in life, and partners when it comes to being volunteers, as well! The two help out with the non-profit School on Wheels, working as tutors for kids who need some educational help. Click to hear their inspiring conversation with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan! (Photo: Patty and Steve Tiso, courtesy of the Tiso family.) https://schoolonwheels.org/

The certified financial analyst and advisor from Orange County is involved in several clubs and organizations - but it’s Lucinda Lambros’ outreach project that truly makes her a hero! With the help of a close friend, Lucinda started Handbags for Hearts, a donation program for women going through a tough time. They collect handbags and purses along with beauty, hair and hygiene products, and give them to women who need a little extra help. Click the link to hear Lucinda chat with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about the project, and the impact it is making! Photo: Lucinda Lambros (center, white shirt with the heart) surrounded by her "angels" and donated handbags. (Courtesy of Lucinda Lambros)

Stefanie Yoshii’s work as a volunteer truly makes her a community hero! Stefanie helps with the Orange County Trauma Intervention Program, or TIP. She meets people going through their toughest moments in life, giving them comfort through a hug, or a holding of the hand - whatever they may need. It takes a special person with a special heart to do this type of work. Click to listen to her chat with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan. (Photo courtesy of Stefanie Yoshii and UCI Health)

For the past 23 years, Rosa has helped lead the mobile health unit with AltaMed Health Services. Its an outreach program for the non-profit. Rosa and her team respond almost daily, looking for people who may need help accessing health care. Click to hear her chat with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan. (Photo courtesy of Rosa Alcala) https://www.altamed.org/

Carl Stromstedt of Orange County is a hero for so many reasons! Over the last few years, Carl has cared for 24 dogs that have been saved through the Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue. He gives them lots of love and attention, and readies them for their forever home! Click to hear him chat with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about this wonderful experience! ! Photo: Carl and his current foster dog, 15 year old Ripley! (Photo courtesy of Kate Bonnaud and the Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue)

Rene Amy lost his home and everything he owned in the Eaton Fire, along with many of his neighbors. The Great Altadena Poppy Project is just one of the numerous ways he’s been giving back to his community! Many of those beautiful flowers have bloomed, encouraging Rene, and bringing light and joy to a community rebuilding! Click to hear his recent conversation with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan. (Photo courtesy of Rene Amy)

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Keisa Souza protected our freedom. Now, as a retired veteran, she's sharing her voice in stadiums and arenas all over California! Keisa has performed the national anthem for numerous teams and sporting events, including the LA Dodgers, San Diego Padres, Angel City FC, the LA Kings, UCLA and so many more! She shares her “why” with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan. Photo: Ret. Chief Petty Officer, Keisa Souza, at a recent LA Kings ice hockey game in Los Angeles. (Courtesy of Keisa Souza)

Two friends in the Santa Clarita Valley have created a special place for older foster youth to find support and inspiration, and a path to post-secondary education. Click on the link to hear Gina Stevens and Carolyn Olsen discuss how FYI is changing lives, one incredible foster child at a time! Photo: Gina Stevens (back row, second from right) and Carolyn Olsen (back row, far left), along with members of a certification program offered at FYI. Courtesy of Rob Comeau Media Productions. https://fyifosteryouth.org/

A couple times a week, Omar Covarrubias leads a large group of hikers to the summit of Mount Hollywood! The group is called The 5AM Crew and everyone is invited to join! Click to hear him chat with KNX Hero’s Host, Heather Jordan. (Photo: Omar Covarrubias during a recent hike. Courtesy of Omar Covarrubias and The 5AM Crew.)

It can be hard as an adult, to find new friends or like-minded people to hang out with. For women who are also sober - it can be very hard finding places where alcohol is not being served. So, Madeline Smith of San Clemente created an organization called OC Sober Gals, where women can get together and connect, without the pressure or temptation of a drink. ​Imagine taking a boat trip, celebrating a Galentine's Night, visiting a TV game show and more! Click to hear her conversation with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan. Photo: Madeline (center) with several members of OC Sober Gals (Courtesy of Madeline Smith) https://www.ocsobergals.org/

LAPD Officer David Marroquin used his alertness and basic first responder training to save the life of a colleague! He noticed the man struggling to breath, choking on some food. With urgency and skill, Officer Marroquin administered the Heimlich maneuver and within moments, the man started breathing again. He believes anyone in that situation would have helped out like he did, and reminds us that we all can be ready for situations like this! Click the link to hear the story with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan. Photo: LAPD Officer David Marroquin (right), courtesy of David Marroquin.

As the co-coordinator of RAMP 22, Seannice Archie helps lead her co-workers at the Riverside Transit Agency with kindness, encouragement and creativity! She does the same for her community! Click to hear Seannice explain how RAMP 22 works with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan. Photo, courtesy of Seannice Archie and RTA: Seannice (far right, in red) with fellow co-workers at RTA.

Schuyler Senft-Grupp and David Weidner are members of West Valley Search and Rescue. It's a group of incredible, skilled and courageous volunteers that hike over rugged terrain - sometimes in the dark of night - to save people who have been trapped or injured while hiking the Southern California mountains. Hear their incredible conversation with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan by clicking the link. Photo: David (left) and Schuyler (right) during a recent training mission. Photo courtesy of Mark Carillo.

Rose Domantay has spent over 30 years working as a registered nurse at Dignity Health St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach. She not only takes care of patients with care and compassion, she has inspired her three daughters to follow in her footsteps! All have become nurses just like her! Rose joins her daughters Remie, Rochelle and Frances in a special interview with Heroes Host, Heather Jordan - click the link to hear this inspiring conversation! Photo, courtesy of the Domantay family: (left to right) Rochelle Domantay, Remie Deguito, Rose Domantay, Frances Domantay.

The ambitious and outgoing teenager has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive eye condition that severely affects her eyesight, and there is no cure. She calls it an invisible illness. Leah chats with Heroes Host Heather Jordan about her decision to turn this life-changing experience into a mission - supporting and inspiring other young people like her, with invisible illnesses! (Photo: Leah Wetter during a recent eye exam. Courtesy of Leah Wetter) https://www.teenvisionsupport.com/

Horses, llamas, pot belly pigs and more! Katie Nenneker has spent these last few years taking care of our biggest, lovable pets and our favorite farm animals! Listen as Dr. Nenn shares with Heroes Host Heather Jordan about the the new NENNtorship program, which is open to young people who are inspired to make difference in the animal health industry! Photo: Dr. Katie Nenneker (far right) and the “cadets” for this year’s NENNtorship program, standing outside of their mobile clinic. Courtesy of the Nenn Foundation, founded by Greg Marx.

Steven Angel is the President and Founder of the non-profit, Drumming For Your Life Institute. It helps young people and adults who struggle with reading, learning, anxiety, addiction and more! He created the Reading, Rhythm & Life Skills Drumming Program, and his unique and tested technique is changing the lives of people all over the Los Angeles metro! Click to hear his conversation with KNX Heroes Host, Heather Jordan, as he explains how it all works! (Photo: Steven Angel, courtesy of Steven Angel and DFYL.) https://dfyl.org/

Heather Jordan chats with former KNX Hero of the Week Summer Willis about the new “Denim Run” running event in Santa Monica on April 12th, 2026. Summer is a marathon runner and sexual assault survivor, and with the assistance of LA's Laurence Cohen, she is spearheading this movement all across the nation! Heather and Summer also talk about the importance of speaking out against sexual violence, and ways to support victims with positivity and strength! Photo of Summer Willis, courtesy of photographer Tierney Gearon.

You may know him as a radio host on our sister station “K-EARTH 101” - but to young kids all over SoCal, Kevin Schatz is merely a musician, who is full of fun and creativity! Click to listen to his full interview with Heroes Host Heather Jordan! Photo: Courtesy of Kevin Schatz (kevinsongs.live)

Guided by her mother's compassionate spirit, Christian Starks is creating healthier communities across SoCal! She is the Director of Community Health for Dignity Health - St. Bernardine Medical Center, combining creativity and kindness to make a difference every day! (Photo courtesy of Christian Starks: Vendors and Christian (center) at the farmer’s market in February 2026.)

Camille Wright specializes in helping out during those crucial days leading up to, and after, the birth of the baby. She also volunteers for a group called 4th Trimester, and is a member of the Happy Baby Journey’s doula collective group. Click and listen to a special extended Heroes edition, with host Heather Jordan! Photo: Camille Wright, working with a family that has a newborn, courtesy of Camille Wright.

Sarah Sobel is leading the way at Shoes for Souls, a non-profit started by her older sister, Lindsay, back in 2016. Sarah chats with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about the organization, how it works, and who they help! Photo: Sarah Sobel (center, kneeling) and classmates with shoes donated by the community, to help those in need! Courtesy of Sarah Sobel. https://shoesforsouls.com/

As the Director of Nursing Research and Innovation at Rady Children's Hospital OC, Jennifer Hayakawa is creating a safe space for nurses, doctors, techs and hospital staff to reflect, get support, and share their personal own stories of triumph and hardship. The work is not easy, so Jennifer helps create a positive, bright light of encouragement for those around her! Photo: Staff members (left to right) Becca, Paulina, Choco the Bear, Jennifer Hayakawa, and Edison during a recent pop-up gallery for Dear Hospital. Courtesy of Jennifer Hayakawa.

When a man with a serious gunshot wound stumbled into the Richard Alatorre Pool asking for help, John Lopez and his staff jumped into action to save his life! John shares the moments as they unfolded with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan, and remarks how their extensive training helps everyone on staff be ready for emergency situations like this. Photo: John Lopez, Aquatic Facility Manager II (center) and members of his staff: Diana Huerta (Lifeguard), Lauren Brown (Pool Manager), Angel Sapida (Lifeguard), Betzaida Cervantes (Lifeguard Aide). Courtesy of John Lopez.

Meet Exercise Physiologist, Michelle Galanti! She is a woman of many talents, and she has a heart for serving others! She works as the Director of Cardiology, Transportation, Patient Experience & Volunteer Services at Glendale Memorial Hospital. Michelle chats with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about following in her father's footsteps and working in the field of cardiology, and how she hopes to make an impact, like he did! Photo: A dated picture of Michelle Galanti and her late father, Richard J. Alan, MD. He was a Cardiologist at Glendale Memorial Hospital. Photo Courtesy of Michelle Galanti.

You can call him the "Poppy Papi" or even Mr. Altadena! Rene Amy is changing the landscape of Eaton Fire burn areas by sowing millions of poppy seeds across the community, bringing areas back to their former beauty. But there is so much more, beyond the poppies. Rene is a powerful pillar of stability and hope for Altadena and all of Southern California, with his volunteer efforts to make the world a little bit better. Photo: Rene Amy as Santa Claus for a recent community event, courtesy of Rene Amy.

Rene Amy is bringing hope back to the town of Altadena! He's sowing MILLIONS of poppy seeds all over the community, helping homeowners who lost their homes in the Eaton Fire heal. He's also bringing neighbors together with his bright light and passionate heart. Listen to Part #1 of his conversation with KNX Heroes host, Heather Jordan! Photo: Rene Amy, sewing poppy seeds for his Great Altadena Poppy Project. Courtesy of Rene Amy.

Joining forces with the Dana Point Women's Club, Debby Thrailkill and her non-profit "My Own - A Case For Kids" is growing into a new warehouse, with capabilities to help more foster kids transition into new homes! Join KNX Heroes host Heather Jordan, Debby and DPWC’s Toni Nelson chat about the program, who it’s helping, and how you can make a difference by joining the effort! https://www.danapointwomensclub.org/projectfoster Photo: The ribbon cutting for Project Foster’s new warehouse. Center, Founder Debby Thrailkill, joined by members of the Dana Point Women's Club.

As a volunteer with Center for Caregiver Advancement, Andrew shares his experiences caring for his own grandfather, to help others going through similar situations. Hear some of Andrew's guidance dealing with dementia and Alzheimer's, by clicking the interview link. Photo: Andrew, with his wife and daughter. Courtesy of the So family.

Cara Kim created TarTar Threads, a boutique-style donation center, located in a spare classroom at Torrance High School. It allows students dealing with financial insecurity at home get a new, clean pair of jeans, or a pretty dress. It also helps with “awkward situations” at school, so kids can feel secure in their clothing in the case of an emergency. It's private and anonymous, so kids can feel confident, even though they are asking for help! Hear more by clicking the audio link! Photo: Cara Kim, center, surrounded by fellow classmates and leaders who helped donate and organize the center. Photo courtesy of Cara Kim.

Dr. Guillermo Rios Rios is a respected pediatrician who loves to run! Admitting he’s “addicted” to running, the 67 year-old is on track to run a total of 500 marathons in his lifetime! He’s an inspiration to us all! Photo courtesy of Dr. Guillermo Rios Rios, at a recent race finish.

Steven Zonis and his 6 year-old standard poodle, Rudy, have spent the year helping first responders, front-line workers and more cope with tragedy and stress. It's been so impactful, Rudy is getting nationally recognized as a top therapy dog for the American Humane Society! (Photo: Steven Zonis and Rudy, volunteering at a response site, courtesy of Steven Zonis.)

Janet Hewson has volunteered as a guardian on more than a dozen Honor Flights since 2013, most with the non-profit Honor Flight Southland. She does this in honor of her late father, Frederick Huson, a Korean War Veteran, and for all of those who have served our nation. Hear a special extended interview with Janet, as she chats with Heroes Host Heather Jordan about the trip itineraries in Washington, D.C., and learn how you can get involved in their “homecoming” events! Photo: Janet Hewson and her late father, Frederick Huson, US Army - Korean War Veteran, during an Honor Flight they took together. Frederick is holding a picture of his younger self, serving in the US Army, while based in Germany.

Listen to a special extended feature with Lousine Adjemian of RadNet! She's the Director of Mammography Training, and she's created a special dance party to help people get moving, and healing! Photo, courtesy of Lousine Adjemian: Lousine leading the way at a recent "Dance Your Way To Health" event for survivors and patients.

He’s inspiring young volleyball players all over the metro! Coach Boo has not only taken the Reseda Charter High School team from a non-winning season to winning championships in just a few years, he’s leading a non-profit as well! He chats with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan about Outrigger Youth Athletics, and more! Photo: Isebiu Reyes “Coach Boo” during a volleyball match. Courtesy of Isebiu Reyes.

Clothing, food, school supplies - if it’s needed, Karin Foreman finds a way to provide it! She leads the BE Helping Hands ministry, a program Karin started in 2016 to help people all over Southern California, who need a little extra support. Photo: Karin Foreman (left) and her daughter, Moriah. Courtesy of Karin Foreman (Connect via FB - https://www.facebook.com/BEHelpingHands)

Named as one of the 2026 Orange County Teachers of the Year, Mrs. Lee uses an array of hands-on activities to help her students learn quickly, all while having fun and building a strong foundation! Photo: (center) Teacher Megan Lee, in her classroom at Loera Elementary, getting honored by OCDE. (Courtesy of Megan Lee)

Jenna Grabow and her sister-in-law Anna Lundmark are changing the landscape when it comes to employment for people with autism! Jenna, who is autistic, struggled to find a job after graduating from beauty school. So, she teamed up with Anna to create their own beauty brand! One of their missions is to hire 100 skilled and talented people, who are differently-abled! In the last year, they've accomplished a lot! Click to hear a special, extended interview with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan! Photo: The Beauty by Jenna team during a recent Zoom call: (front l-r) Jenna Grabow, Anna Lundmark (back l-r) Manny Cabrera, Teal Kim and Henry Haubrich.

Fashion stylist and author Jen Principe is changing lives with her non-profit, The Phoenix Effect! From teenagers going through chemo treatments, to parents dealing with cancer, Jen curates a unique photo shoot experience for each Phoenix, so they can shine and smile brightly! Oftentimes, it's the boost they need to keep pushing through their challenges! Photo: Stylist Jen Principe, courtesy of Tony Principe, photographer.

Barry Cogert and his fellow team of incredible musicians at Jazz Angels are enriching the minds of middle school students, through the power of music and live performance! Photo: Jazz Angels Co-Founder and Managing Director Barry Cogert, courtesy of photographer Mark Barnes.

Ms. Blake is starting her 21st year at Ladera Vista Junior High School of the Arts in the Fullerton School District. The English language arts, honors English and composition teacher is inspiring students to be brave, and reach for the stars! Photo, courtesy of Darcy Blake: Teacher Darcy Blake (left), 2018 Nobel Peace Prize winner Nadia Murad (middle), and former student, Kate Ha (right).

Race car driver Austin Varco continues to move up the ranks in the racing world, inspiring the autism community along the way! The 25 year-old shares with KNX Heroes Host Heather Jordan how his autism diagnosis changed his life, he chats about his non-profit, and he reveals his big news - his upcoming Nascar debut!

Maury Ornest secretly created more than 1,400 paintings and sketches, while battling mental illness. Art was a way to connect with the outside world. His family is now sharing his pieces and telling his story, with all proceeds going to local charities. Families who lost homes in the recent Los Angeles area fires can also receive a free piece of artwork. Photo: Laura Ornest and her husband, Rick Leslie. Courtesy of Laura Ornest. https://www.mauryornest.com

Kim Cantin and her teenage daughter survived the Montecito mudslides in 2018, but sadly, her husband and teenage son did not. Through the devastating loss, Kim was able to find hope, and gain strength to rebuild their lives. Our KNX Hero of the Week is now helping survivors of the recent, deadly floods in Texas cope with their own recovery and grief. Photo: Kim Cantin, her late husband Dave, son Jack, and daughter Lauren in 2007. Photo Courtesy of the Cantin family.

14 year-old Dhilan Patel and 16 year-old Kavin Patel are helping the Tustin senior community navigate websites and phone apps with their program called Support For Seniors. The brothers are also organizing health fairs and companion walks for seniors - they are truly making a difference! 
Photo: Dhilan Patel and Kavin Patel, courtesy of the Patel family. IG: supportforseniors_

Christine is the founder and executive director of Animals In Need Rescue Network, based in LA County. She and her large team of volunteers offer an array of services for animals, including “trap, neuter and return” and assistance with medical needs. They also find foster homes, help with transportation and rescue operations, and more! Check them out at animalsinneedrescuenetwork.org Photo courtesy of Christine Brown.

Accomplished cellist and performer Debora Wondercheck is paying it forward once again, with the Arts and Learning Conservatory in Costa Mesa! Her non-profit serves thousands of kids all over Southern California, with the purpose of making arts equitable and accessible for kids of all backgrounds. They are gearing up for their big summer performance this month of The Wizard of Oz, in their new performing arts center! Photo courtesy for Debora Wondercheck and Arts and Learning Conservatory (https://www.artsandlearning.org)

Conor Ross helping lead a special project in the Bishop Manor neighborhood of Santa Ana. They are tearing down the old and broken, and bringing in the new! The new, safe play space will help revitalize and connect a diverse and divided community! (Photo courtesy of Conor Ross)