The return of Catholic high school to Vancouver and an unwavering commitment to such charities as Share, Boys & Girls Clubs, the Clark County Food Bank and the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington are among the reasons Steve and Jo Marie Hansen will receive the Philanthropists of the Year Award.
The award for outstanding philanthropy is given every year by the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, a charitable agency that amasses and grants money to local nonprofit groups. The foundation will present the award at its annual luncheon, set for May 8 at the Hilton Vancouver Washington. Tickets are $50.
Although the Hansens have lived, and given, in Clark County for more than 30 years, they are especially noted for steering a $2.5 million campaign to bring a Catholic high school, Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic High School, to Clark County. That school opened in 2010, the first Catholic high school to operate here in 40 years.
“We were somewhat reluctant to receive an award for our giving, because giving is a natural reaction to the many pressing needs that face our communities,” Steve Hansen said. “It’s our responsibility to respond and help our neighbors.”
