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News-Sun photo by CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY Ashley Chaney Bishop accepts the Jeremiah Milbank award from the Boys and Girls Clubs for the funds she and her father, Gerald Chaney, raised and donated to the two local clubs in Highlands County. Together, father and daughter contributed $30,000 in a single year. The Milbank Award recognizes that generosity.

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published: Friday, November 20, 2009

Local car dealer's generosity recognized

By CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY

christopher.tuffley@newssun.com

AVON PARK -- Gerald Chaney and his daughter Ashley Chaney Bishop were each recognized by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America Wednesday morning and presented with Jeremiah Milbank Awards.

The Milbank award was created to honor Jeremiah Milbank, a businessman and philanthropist who helped President Herbert Hoover found the Boys and Girls Clubs.

When individuals, or couples, donate $10,000 of unrestricted funds to local clubs, the national organization recognize them with this award.

Chaney and Bishop each donated $15,000 in the past year.

Chairman of the Board Wally Randall and Woodraun Wright, area director, made the presentations in person at Chaney's Used Auto and Budget Bi-Rite Insurance office.

"They are being recognized for their commitment, encouragement and support of the Boys and Girls Club," Randall said. Only three other people in Highlands County have ever received a Milbank Award, and only a handful in the state, Randall added.

"My dad always looks for something to support and give back to the community," Bishop said. "He wanted to do something good. I think helping others is a must, and it gives you a great feeling."

Randall said one of the best things was that the money stayed in the community and was used on Highlands County children.

Chaney's Used Auto has been in business for 60 years and three generations.

The Boys and Girls Clubs have been in existence even longer, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2006.

From its earliest start, in 1860, to its formal formation in 1906 linking 53 affiliates, The Boys and Girls Clubs has grown to become co-ed, with 4,000 affiliated clubs, serving 8 million children.

Here in Highlands County, Wright said, close to 170 children are served at two sites which are open whenever schools are closed.

Children receive tutoring and homework help from certified teachers. There is a power hour of reading as well. Once children have completed their work, they may participate in games or special programs like the community garden or a course in drumming.

"We look to expand the kids' horizons," Wright said. "We try to make them well-rounded."