Ken Striplin, a long time community advocate, was approached five years ago and asked to serve on the MHF board of directors. The Executive Director at the time saw passion, commitment, and a call to action within Ken. Since that first moment, Ken has continued to assiduously support and advocate for the Foundation. He served as the Foundation Board President for the last two years and this year, is one of the Chairs for the annual Evening Under the Stars Gala, to be held at Mann Biomedical Park on September 25. Ken truly believes in what the Foundation does. He loves the impact it has on children and their families. Ken believes that when you begin to understand the circumstances and how a diagnosis evolves into a life-changing event for the entire family, it is nice to know that the Foundation can help in small ways and support the families.
Ken believes that as a community we need to support each other and give what we can. Whether it is time, energy, financial, or other resources, that is what makes Santa Clarita a special place. Ken also gives because he has small children of his own and can only imagine the pain the families go through in their fights against cancer.
In terms of serving as the Foundation Board President, Ken enjoyed working with a talented and committed group of volunteer board members from throughout the community who, over the years, have shown tremendous dedication to the purpose and mission of the Foundation.
One of the more meaningful experiences Ken had while supporting the Foundation was having the opportunity to sit with a family and listen to their personal story. When he heard about their child’s diagnosis, struggles and ultimate remission, and how that changed their life – he was changed forever. That conversation, in that impactful moment—hearing how the Foundation was an integral part of their support network, and how much it helped them get through that time—will forever be a part of who Ken is and why he dedicates his time to making a lasting contribution.