Steve Oaks, Division Chief for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department was honored with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition, Rotary’s highest honor.
The Whittier Fire broke out a little more than a year ago, on July 8, 2017, off Highway 154 near Lake Cachuma on the hillside above Camp Whittier. The fire scorched 18,430 acres and destroyed 16 homes and 30 outbuildings. Santa Barbara County Firefighters successfully evacuated campers and staff at Camp Whittier, operated by the United Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, and nearby Circle V Ranch, operated by the Boys Scouts, as well as local residents. Their efforts minimized damage to Camp Whittier
Michael Baker, Executive Director, United Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, stated his appreciation for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department for their tireless work in saving Camp Whittier. He also spoke about the Sunrise Rotary club’s longstanding support, “Over the years, this club has done work on virtually every building on the grounds!"
Michael Baker, Executive Director, United Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, stated his appreciation for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department for their tireless work in saving Camp Whittier. He also spoke about the Sunrise Rotary club’s longstanding support, “Over the years, this club has done work on virtually every building on the grounds!"
Joanne Schoenfeld honored Chief Oaks with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition for his critical efforts on behalf of his first responder agency during the Whittier Fire.
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
Schoenfeld, a local real estate broker, past Club President, and 30-year Rotarian, stated, “The Santa Barbara Sunrise Rotary has long been supportive of Camp Whittier, a Boys and Girls Club Camp. As Fire Marshall Division Chief Oaks assisted the camp in preparing for a possible fire. It was that preparation that saved most of the camp during the Whittier Fire. During that same fire Chief Oaks lead the team in a dramatic rescue of 83 campers and their counselors from nearby Camp V. He continues to direct our County fire personnel and in honoring him and I want to honor his entire team.”
Photo: Joanne Schoenfeld and Steve Oaks, Division Chief for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.