Probation Employee Group Serves Families of Sick Kids

Some 20 members of the Asian Islander Probation Association recently prepared and served a free lunch for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House of San Diego.

The association served 150 family members at the “home away from home” for people whose children are receiving care in nearby hospitals for life-threatening illnesses.

“We have been working with the Ronald McDonald House for the last six or seven years. We enjoy talking with the families,” said association president Rosa Pagala, a retired probation officer. “We don’t tell them we’re probation officers, we just want to help these families who are going through a really, really tough time.”

Serving families at Ronald McDonald House of San Diego is the employee group’s signature event; they volunteer there on an annual basis, she said.

“The gratitude expressed to the volunteers made it a worthwhile event,” said member Irene Lilly, supervising probation officer. “They were very appreciative.”

The Asian Islander Probation Association (AIPA) was started 12 years ago and has increased cultural awareness throughout the Probation Department through its strong commitment to professional development and community service.  AIPA often partners with the Probation Department during the Juvenile Hall Open House and through the VIP Golf Tournament.  In addition, AIPA cooperates with the Probation Officers Association (POA) by assisting them with their annual summer picnic.

To learn more about the Asian Islanders Probation Association, contact Pagala at  rosapagala@hotmail.com.