Springdale Job Corps Center chef Jon Brown was named the 2013 Troutdale Citizen of the Year.  The Citizen of the Year award is given to a nominee who “promotes human welfare and social reform or practices philanthropy.”

When Jon moved to Troutdale in 2005, he was eager to get to know his new home and get involved in the community.  He thought getting involved with the Lions Club would be a great way for him to do that.  For him, having a strong community and being active in it is important.  “Knowing who’s who where you live is key,” he states.  “I know who the Chief of Police is, I check in at the fire department.  I like living in Troutdale and I like the people who live here.”

Since becoming president of the Lions Club, Jon has created several events, including a spaghetti dinner on Veteran’s Day to honor veterans and thier families.  He has continued many of the traditional Lions Club events, like the Troutdale Trot, a 6.6 mile run through downtown Troutdale.  One of his favorites is the Holida Gathering.  “It’s a relaxed event,” Jon explains.  “The kids play, Santa shows up.  You can decorate cookies to take home or maybe figure out what gifts to get the kids.  It’s a nice time before the real holiday craziness takes off.”

“I see working at Springdale as an extension of the work I do with the Lions Club,” Jon says.  “It’s about improving your community.  I like that Springdale Job Corps is involved in activities in the area and I’d like to see that continue and grow.”

Jon received a certificate and will be part of the Troutdale Summerfest parade taking place on Saturday, July 20th.

For more information about the Lions Club International and the work they do, visit their website www.lionsclub.org.