Victoria Matveev-Suarez named Pomona Community Hero of the Year
University of La Verne sophomore Victoria Matveev-Suarez has been volunteering in her community for as long as she can remember.
Receiving the 2014 Pomona Community Hero of the Year Award still came as a surprise, despite her hard work.
“I feel so blessed to be given this award.” Matveev-Suarez said.
The award, given by the city of Pomona, is celebrated during Pomona Day on September 5th at the L.A. County Fair.
“One of the perks of the award is that I get to ride in the parade,” she said.
Matveev-Suarez attends the special day every year and has ridden on group floats in the parade before with her father, who has served as president of the Pomona Valley Democratic Club.
“But this time, I get to ride in a fancy vintage car, so that will be fun!” Martveev-Suarez said.
In addition to balancing school and work, Matveev-Suarez always makes time to volunteer and help out in the community. As a graduate of Pomona Catholic High School, and all-girls school in Pomona, she makes sure to go back and help with the track and soccer teams.
She competed on the both teams during all four years of high school, and appreciated the mentors who would volunteer their time.
“When I’m there, and coaching the girls, they ask about college, and have questions about all aspects of life. I can relate to the girls, and am happy to be there and have that time with them,” she said.
On campus, Matveev-Suarez attends all of the events, and makes the most of her college experience. She makes time to campaign, and helps with meetings and events for her father, as well as other members of the Pomona Valley Democratic Club.
“I’ve worked for them my whole life. Because my dad has always been so involved in the community, every Saturday morning I’m there and helping them with their campaign issues,” she said.
And her work in volunteerism shows no sign of slowing down.
“Anytime I have the opportunity to volunteer I take it. Whether it’s staying late in the library to tutor students, or running track with the high school girls; in everything I do, I always try to volunteer and lend a helping hand,” she said.
