Rotarian recognized for contributions

The Rotary Club of Thousand Oaks has named John Rutherford, recently retired chief executive officer of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA, as the recipient of the club's 22nd annual Wilfred A. Rothschild Award in recognition of his contributions to the youth of the community

When Rutherford assumed his CEO position in 1981, there was a single YMCA on Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks. This facility served 4,000 people with an annual budget of $250,000. Under Rutherford's guidance, the YMCA has four branches in theConejo,Si miValley, Triunfo in the eastern portion of the Conejo Valley and the recently opened facility in Newbury Park. Combined with 22 child-care units, they servemoreth an22,000 people with an $8 million annual budget.

Other key accomplishments during Rutherford's tenure include the expansion of childcare programs, creation of a variety of summer programs, establishment of aquatic programs for all ages and increase of health and fitness facilities for all age groups.

Wilfred Rothschild was a founding father of Thousand Oaks who made contributions of land for park and church sites. He was committed to several organizations serving local youth and was an active member of Thousand Oaks Rotary.