Jay Harvill

From the beginning, Jay lived in exiting and interesting places.  As a youngster, his adoptive father was stationed at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, and made sure Jay towed the line in those formative years.  Jay knew back then that his dad was an important, high-ranking officer who had a career he could not discuss.  Before too long, the family transferred to a base in El Segundo.  Jay’s lifestyle immediately changed and his focus gravitated from buzz cuts and museums to long hair, skateboards, surfing, and soaking up the sun with California girls.  With another transfer, Jay’s family moved to Belgium when his dad became a diplomat for N.A.T.O.  Jay received his bachelor’s degree in finance from Pepperdine University and began a career at UPS.  He made a life changing decision to advocate for philanthropic causes and get more involved in the non- profit sector.  With his background in finance, Jay interviewed with Dennis Lee and began a career at Arcadia Methodist Hospital as Director of Planned Giving.  Jay resides in South Pasadena with his wife Robin (L.A. 5 Rotary Club member) and son, Joshua (4yrs old).  He still enjoys ocean sports, especially kayaking, outdoor activities such as hiking, and wine collecting.  What a great family!  Thank you Jay, for helping us to get to know you.   

Ruben Cardenas Jr.

Ruben enjoys his rich heritage coming from a family of immigrant laborers who worked here as early as 1910.  He knows the true value of education, and how it can help improve ones quality of life.  Ruben grew up locally and always enjoyed the closeness of family.  He graduated from Cal State University Northridge with a degree in economics.  After college, he worked at Fedex where he became a senior auditor.  He also worked as an audit supervisor at LACMTA.  Three and a half years ago Ruben decided to purchase a franchise and get into small business for himself.  It is called Embroidme, and specializes in the embroidery of logos on all types of apparel.  The website also promotes gifts and specialty items offered to corporate clients such as bags, totes, pens, and other promotional products. He and his wife also own a home in Pasadena for developmentally disabled individuals with current residents totaling fourteen.  Ruben lives in Altadena with his wife Desiree (Pasadena Rotarian) and two children Jarod and Daniela and believes in the power of volunteering in community activities as a family.  Another great craft talk Ruben. 

Pat Dolphin