Cindy Brenneman

Sometimes it is not one action or cause that distinguishes an individual, but rather their instrumental role in establishing the groundwork where community can flourish. Cindy Brenneman’s continuous efforts to strengthen her community of Costa Mesa follow that pattern.

In 2008 Cindy received the Mayor’s Award for her work as president of the board of the Costa Mesa Community Foundation. During her tenure Cindy directed several ambitious projects.

Cindy oversaw The Foundation’s fund-raising campaign to build the Costa Mesa Veteran’s Memorial, which now stands as a focal point at Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Cemetery.

Cindy directed another complex fundraising endeavor to raise the $1.4 million necessary to build Angel’s Playground. The Costa Mesa Community Foundation secured a $930,000 grant from the State of California Parks & Recreation department to build Angels Playground at TeWinkle Park. Through a collaborative effort with the City of Costa Mesa and Angels Charity Cindy was able to oversee the successful opening of the first playground in the county developed for both able and disabled children.

Under her leadership the Foundation was also involved in the establishment of a scholarship program for the Costa Mesa Police and Fire Explorer programs which grant four scholarships yearly for 16 – 21 year olds interested in learning about what it takes to become a fire fighter or police officer.

“As I get closer to retirement age I only see my volunteerism becoming a bigger part of my life,” says Cindy. “As long as I can walk I will volunteer. As long as I can make a difference I will continue to do so.”

Another area of dedication for Cindy is her desire to be actively involved in volunteer disaster preparedness efforts. She serves on the city’s advisory committee for the Costa Mesa Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and also serves as a volunteer CERT member and instructor.

“With all of the recent budget cuts, this program has become vitally important to aid in public safety for our community,” says Cindy.