KNX Hero of the Week

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.

The series closes with the voice of Nataly’s late father, Carlo, whose love, artistry, and spirit still echoed through the home he built. As the family returns to the ashes, small survivors, a palm tree, a ring, become symbols of enduring love and legacy. Through memories, laughter, grief, and resolve, this episode explores what it means to rebuild not just a house, but a sense of home, honoring a father whose presence is still deeply felt.

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)

From teaching construction skills to working small jobs, to learning money management and inspiring self love! Bryant is opening a world of possibility to each young person who goes through his Handy Blessed Hands Youth Mentorship Program. Photo: Bryant Sparrow with students in the Handy Blessed Hands Youth Mentorship Program, on a trip to a local 5-star restaurant to learn etiquette and money management.

At just 21 years-old, Shant is a rising star within the medical profession! A long-time volunteer, the Glendale native is quickly moving up the ranks in the field of healthcare administration, brushing shoulders with some of the best community leaders and healthcare professionals in Southern California! Photo: Courtesy of Shant Kevorkian

Sheri Waldstein is the founder of Happy Hats for Kids in Hospitals, a non-profit based in LA County. Her team of volunteers have gifted more than 1.3 million hats to families around the world! Photo: Sheri Waldstein, courtesy of Happy Hats for Kids in Hospitals.

Volunteers with "Bee A Little Better" meet EVERY Thursday on Skid Row, to hand out fresh, hot food and much-needed hygiene supplies, spreading hope and cheer as they do it! Photo: Byron Takeuchi (second from right), helping feed a group of people in Downtown Los Angeles.

American Red Cross Volunteers Vesta Sung and her daughter, Nathalie Sung, stepped-up when a deadly wildfire erupted during their vacation in Hawaii. Working as leaders while volunteering, they helped feed and shelter around 1,200 evacuees! Vesta later used her emergency response experience to help when Los Angeles County was hit with similar fires in January of 2025. Photo: Vesta Sung (left) and Nathalie Sung (right), courtesy of the Sung family.

If you need some motivation or a dose of inspiration, meet Dr. Cynthia West! She’s helping entrepreneurs excel in SoCal! Photo: Dr Cynthia West, courtesy of Chapman University and the Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics. https://www.chapman.edu/research/institutes-and-centers/leatherby-center/

Tara Collins-Felix and Monica Harden signed up three years ago to volunteer with Make-A-Wish of Orange County and the Inland Empire. They say the experience has been life changing! Photo courtesy of Tara Collins-Felix and Monica Harden https://wish.org/ocie

From hurricane relief in Hawaii and St Croix, to the recent wildfires in Los Angeles - Carmela Burke is making a big difference in our community and around the world! Photo: Carmela Burke helping at an emergency shelter in Westwood, courtesy of Carmela Burke and the American Red Cross. https://www.redcross.org/

April is National Volunteer Month, and we are recognizing one of the best! Josh Carranco has been mentoring his "Little Brother" Bryan for about three years now, and together they are enhancing each other's lives! Photo: Josh and Bryan, courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters OC. The waitlist for kids is long, connect and learn more at https://www.ocbigs.org

Compassion Prison Project is changing the lives of thousands of incarcerated people by bringing awareness to childhood trauma, and providing hope for a better future! Photo: Fritzi Horstman, Founder and Executive Director of Compassion Prison Project.

Avid cyclists Mark Scotch (left) and Donor Coordinator Ernie Villalon (right) are cycling April 4th from Santa Monica to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, then to Keck Medicine of USC, to raise awareness for living organ donation! Photo courtesy of Keck Medicine of USC, Mark Scotch and Ernie Villalon.

Angel City Sports is a non-profit based in LA that provides year-round adaptive sports opportunities for kids, adults and veterans with physical disabilities or visual impairments! Photo: 2-time Paralympic Gold Medalist Ezra Frech and a fellow athlete at last year’s inaugural Youth Weekend! Photo courtesy of Clayton Frech and Angel City Sports. Connect at https://angelcitysports.org

#inspiration He’s re-learning how to walk and swim, but through persistence and hard-work, Andrew is already adaptive-surfing those same waters where he suffered the life-changing stroke. Photo: Andrew poses with a physical therapist, after taking part in an adaptive surfing lesson in the ocean with the non-profit, Life Rolls On. https://liferollson.org/