Governor sheds ‘light’ on Pardee

Pardee Homes has received a 2008 Governor's Points of Light Award in recognition of the company's leadership in the complete renovation of the St. Jude's Ranch for Children campus in Boulder City at an estimated cost in excess of $1 million.

"Your dedication, commitment and determination in promoting and supporting volunteerism throughout the state serve as an example for other Nevadans," Nevada first lady Dawn Gibbons said while presenting the corporate category award to Klif Andrews, president of Pardee's Southern Nevada Division.

"While I get to accept the award, it was earned by my fellow Pardee employees and our many friends in the home building industry," Andrews said. "We all agree that our St. Jude's project was a labor of love."

Working with HomeAid Southern Nevada, Pardee and more than 100 volunteer subcontractors last year transformed the cottages and grounds that are now home to nearly 50 abused, neglected and abandoned children.

Under the banner of "Building Hope," Pardee led the volunteer force of workers -- some 500-strong -- in the renovation and refurbishing of eight cottages totaling more than 56,000 square feet of living space; more than two acres of new landscaping; more than 1,000 tons of new asphalt; some 1,500 linear feet of concrete paving and thousands of gallons of paint. In addition, Pardee donated furniture and decorations from 10 model homes.

The Governor's Points of Light Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Nevada Commission for National and Community Service Inc. and the state with the purpose of inspiring individuals to make a positive impact in the lives of people who need it and in places where it can make a difference, according to the first lady, who also serves as honorary chairwoman of Nevada Volunteers.

"Nevadans don't volunteer to seek recognition, but we understand the importance of acknowledging these caring individuals, nonprofit groups and corporations that continue to give back to their neighbors," said Gov. Gibbons in a joint statement with the first lady. "Due to the assistance of these dedicated citizens, we are able to effectively provide the necessary services that ensure healthy communities for all Nevadans to enjoy."

Pardee was recently honored as the 2007 Outstanding Corporation by the Las Vegas chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals during the 16th Annual National Philanthropy Awards in November.

The company has also received an honorable mention from the National Housing Endowment Builder Achievement Award for Outstanding Community Service, which includes $1,000 that will be donated to St. Jude's Ranch for Children. Through the National Association of Home Builders, the award honors home builders across the country that epitomize the commitment of making a difference in their local communities through service and charitable work.

Pardee's history of philanthropy dates back to founder George Pardee's support for the Boy Scouts of America. While the causes vary by region, themes are held in common. Company employees help the homeless, support schools and education, work with those who mentor youth, and pitch in to raise funds and awareness for a variety of health and medical issues, according to Andrews.

Kathleen Baker is the executive director of the Southern Nevada Chapter of HomeAid, a nonprofit organization that partners with the building industry to construct and renovate shelters for temporarily homeless families and individuals.

"Pardee's contributions, which funded the establishment of HomeAid in Southern Nevada, will make a difference in the lives of countless families," she said.