'Anytime Someone Needs Help, She Is There': Castro Valley Hero

CASTRO VALLEY, CA — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Dan Craver who nominated Kathi Townsend of Castro Valley.

Local hero’s full name

Kathi Townsend

Local hero’s home state

California

Local hero’s Patch

Castro Valley

How do you know the local hero?

Friend

What does the local hero do?

Realtor

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

I have known Kathi for about 10 years. I became a realtor and Kathi was in our office. She was and is always in a good mood and if you are not, you will be after a few minutes. Her son has suffered from addiction issues for most of his adult life. He now is in his early 40's. She never gave up on him and supported him every day. To make that very long story short, he is now engaged to what I hear is a beautiful person and will get married next year. Anytime someone needs help, she is there. She puts fund raisers together at our office. She has been Castro Valley's Mrs. Claus for many years and will be again this year at the Festival of Lights Parade. I do not think she knows how many lives she has touched and how much she does, she certainly has made an impact on my life. She never asks for anything for herself, but is always there for all who ask. Due to her latest fund raising at our office, we raised over $500 to help pay for our Santa Photo Day at our office. All clients will be able to bring their kids, dogs, parents, grandparents to the office and have your photo taken with Mr. and Mrs. Claus for free. This has been a tradition for many years and this is the first time since COVID began. Kids who were kids when their first picture was taken with Santa now bring their kids. Would not be possible without her.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

She is the kindest, most approachable person I have ever met. If you are lucky enough to know her, you never want her to be far away. Even if only for a hug.

Thank you for all you do, Kathi Townsend!

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Know someone making a difference in town? Nominate them as a local hero here.