The Los Angeles Angels’ spring training is just weeks away, but that didn’t stop Manager Joe Maddon from taking the time for his first charitable appearance since arriving in Orange County. We are grateful that he and his Respect 90 Foundation chose Orange County Rescue Mission’s Village of Hope for their first Thanksmas event!

I believe in the biblical truth that every gift given from the heart, no matter the size or the notoriety of the giver, has great value for the work of restoring the lives of homeless veterans, men, women and children.

But when Joe Maddon, someone of his caliber and heart, chooses to spend time with people, serve them dinner and talk with them, that’s outstanding.*

Village of Hope resident, Angel, agrees. “For someone who is a big-time personality from a sports point of view, to come here to us…We’re all broken here…we don’t feel important enough to have someone come to join us. So it’s a great honor because it makes you feel like we are special and somebody does care about us.”**

Maddon stated that Village of Hope “might be the best I’ve seen.” * Joe and Jaye Maddon’s Respect 90 Foundation serves in the different communities where they have lived.

We are grateful for their dedication to serve others! Thank you again, Joe Maddon and Respect 90 Foundation!

Read more about the Respect 90 Foundation and the Thanksmas event at Village of Hope in the January 29, 2020 online editions of The Orange County Register and the Los Angeles Times.