Welcome to the Inaugural Hummingbird Awards!
As part of our 20th anniversary celebration, George Mark Children’s House hosted the inaugural Hummingbird Awards to honor those who have significantly advanced our mission of caring for seriously ill children and their families. The Hummingbird Awards were established to recognize and express our deep gratitude to individuals and organizations that have played an outstanding role in furthering the mission of George Mark Children’s House.
Hummingbirds hold a special place in the hearts of our community. They are symbols of healing, comfort and hope, especially when patients, families, and staff need the support most. Their physical presence in our gardens reflects the transformative journey our patients and families experience during their time with us. We celebrate not only the contributions of our partners but also the enduring strength of the patients and families that we are honored to serve.
The Hummingbird Awards, were presented by George Mark founder Kathy Hull and George Mark CEO Shekinah Eliassen, during a rededication ceremony on Hummingbird Hill, the tranquil and welcoming gardens at George Mark Children’s House, aptly named because it is teaming with hummingbirds! This serene setting provided the perfect backdrop for honoring the individuals and organizations who have made a significant impact.
Alameda County District 3 Supervisor Lena Tam presented a proclamation honoring George Mark for its 20 years of dedicated service to children and their families, and saluting the 2024 recipients of the Hummingbird Award.
Awardees include:
Bob Pauley & Jerome Ranft, Pixar Animation Studios Artists
These distinguished artists (Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Cars) have generously contributed their time, their sketches, illustrations, and maquettes of hummingbirds to George Mark Children’s House pro bono.
Cody Lyon, Pixar Animation Studio Artist
Cody (Elemental, Coco) is a familiar presence at George Mark events, where he creates animated versions of families as part of memory-building activities. He also designed and created a stunning mural in the GMCH Art Room as a poignant tribute to a bereaved family.
Kambiz Mehrafshani, Artworks Foundry
Kambiz is instrumental in producing the exquisite Pixar-designed bronze statues presented as awards for the Hummingbird Awards, further enhancing the legacy of compassion and artistry at GMCH.
Pixar Animation Studios
Through their ongoing commitment and robust volunteer engagement, Pixar Animation Studios exemplifies corporate citizenship at its finest, making a meaningful difference in the lives of George Mark patients and their families. Alyssa Wallace, Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Pixar Animation Studios accepted the award.
Serpico Landscaping
For over 15 years, Serpico Landscaping has generously provided pro bono landscaping services, ensuring the gardens and Hummingbird Hill are meticulously maintained.
Wilma Chan, Alameda Board of Supervisors
The late Supervisor Wilma Chan, Alameda County Board of Supervisors, a distinguished advocate and early champion of George Mark Children’s House, played a pivotal role in the organization’s foundational years. Chan’s former Chief of Staff Rachel Richman accepted the award on her behalf.
