Port of San Diego Honors Community Rowing of San Diego and SBCS with Anchors of Excellence Awards for the month of November

The Port of San Diego honors two local nonprofits, Community Rowing of San Diego and SBCS (formerly South Bay Community Services) with Anchors of Excellence Awards for the month of November. Community Rowing, based in National City, is honored for its continued service in the areas of youth engagement and community health. SBCS, headquartered in Chula Vista, is recognized for their commitment to community health and wellbeing. Port Chair Danielle Moore presented the awards at the November 4 Board of Port Commissioners meeting.

"The Port of San Diego is proud to honor Community Rowing of San Diego as well as SBCS with Anchors of Excellence Awards," said Chair Danielle Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. "Both of these organizations epitomize what it means to serve and uplift our communities. Community Rowing of San Diego has expanded access to our bayfront through fun and healthy programs, while SBCS has been a trusted partner in empowering families across the region. Congratulations to Community Rowing and SBCS. Your efforts make our waterfront and our region a better place for opportunity and wellness."

Community Rowing of San Diego is a non-profit organization that provides accessible rowing and kayaking programs to a wide range of participants including youth, adults, seniors and adaptive athletes. Located at the Port Aquatic Center in National City, Community Rowing focuses on making the sport of rowing available to underserved communities through affordable programs, scholarships, and partnerships with local organizations, like the Port of San Diego. The organization offers introductory lessons, competitive teams, as well as specialized programs for veterans and cancer survivors.

"We're deeply honored to receive the Port of San Diego's Anchor of Excellence Award," said Miriam Valdez, President of Community Rowing of San Diego. "This award reflects our shared commitment with the Port to making the waterfront a place for everyone - from underserved youth in National City to military veterans, cancer survivors, and all who find strength and connection through rowing. Together, we're building community on and off the water, and showing that access, inclusion, and teamwork can truly change lives."

SBCS is a social service and community development agency formerly known as South Bay Community Services. The organization provides comprehensive services for children, youth, and families in San Diego County, including youth development, family wellness, child well-being, community engagement, and housing assistance. SBCS also helps families experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and mental health challenges.

"We're honored to receive the Port of San Diego's Anchors of Excellence Award," said Kathryn Lembo, SBCS President and CEO. "For more than two decades, SBCS and the Port have worked side by side on our shared mission to strengthen families, expand opportunity, and build thriving neighborhoods. This recognition reflects what's possible when public agencies and community organizations come together to serve our region."

For more information about the Anchors of Excellence program, please click here.