Anna Derby receives recognition for her service
Leisure World resident and Golden Age Foundation (GAF) President Anna Derby was recognized for her 20 years of volunteer service by the City of Seal Beach on April 27.
In 1981, Derby moved to the United States from Seoul, Korea with her two children. After working different jobs, she got a job at Farmers and Merchants Bank, from which she retired in 2006.
After moving to Leisure World, she quickly became involved in the community by taking advantage of all of the clubs and activities available. She has been involved in a variety of clubs including the Korean American Club, Multi-Cultural Council, Sunshine Club, Women’s Sing Along Club, Video Producers Club, the LW community gardens, and many more.
She currently serves as the president of the GAF, a nonprofi t 501(c)(3) organization established in 1973 to enhance the quality of life for the 9,500plus LW residents through its programs. These free programs include daily coffee and snacks in the hospitality center to socialize and combat isolation; income tax preparation in partnership with AARP; the mobility aids program, document shredding and battery recycling.
Through Derby’s leadership, the GAF has also hosted several major events, including centenarian birthday celebrations, the GAF’s 50th anniversary celebration, and the Walk & Roll-a-Thon.
This year, the GAF will host the Multicultural Festival in Leisure World on July 18. For more information, see page 18.
“It is truly an honor to be recognized by the City of Seal Beach,” Derby said at the ceremony. “It has been a privilege to serve the Leisure World community for over 20 years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside many dedicated individuals I have met throughout the two decades.”
Council Joe Kalmick (back row, l-r), Mayor Lisa Landau, and Patty Senecal, Council Pro Tem Ben Wong (front, l-r), Anna Derby, and Council Nathan Steele.
