2011 co-Volunteers of the Year

Ford Theatres/Los Angeles County Arts Commission

Gerri and Bob Alexander

For the past 15 years, Gerri and Bob Alexander have been volunteers at the John Anson Ford Theatres, a program of the L.A. County Arts Commission. They've logged in over 1500 hours over that time. They became volunteers not only before the elevator was installed but even before the stairs were installed! "The picnic tables were on the dirt next to the walkway," said Bob. "It has been amazing to see the theatre grow into the beauty it is now."

Gerri and Bob first visited the theatre under its original moniker. "We came when it was still the Pilgrimage Theatre to see the original Pilgrimage Play," said Gerri. "That was in the 1950s." Their cumulative knowledge about the history of the Ford has been a great help to generations of Ford staff, volunteers and especially patrons, who are often surprised to learn of the theatre's historical significance.

The Alexanders continue to be a great asset to the Ford Theatres during both the summer and winter seasons. During the summer, they use their outgoing personalities and knowledge of the theatre when welcoming guests as part of the usher staff. In the winter, they support incoming producers with show set up, programs and assisting with patron seating and ticket taking.

"Volunteering is satisfying -- getting to meet people and help people is the most enjoyable part of it," said Bob. Indeed, they devote much of their lives to volunteering with other arts entities, including The Music Center, the Pasadena Playhouse and California State University Northridge, as well as at the polls, working many elections since 1968. "It's very rewarding to be able to give something back to the community," said Gerri.

Gerri and Bob will celebrate their 59th wedding anniversary this year and we look forward to their being an integral part of the Ford family again this summer. We salute the hard work and longevity of the Ford's favorite couple, Gerri and Bob Alexander!

 -- William Berry, Event Services Manager