San Francisco’s magic lies in its people — and once again, the Community Living Campaign is rolling out the red carpet for our city’s Good Neighbors! These everyday heroes bring warmth, humor, and connection to every block, making San Francisco a place where everyone can age, thrive, and belong.
From neighbors who crochet Forget-Me-Not flowers as symbols of advocacy, to those who deliver groceries, teach tech skills, or simply brighten someone’s day — they are the heartbeat of a caring, connected city.
Midtown - Winifred Folin
Winifred Folin is an amazing woman in so many ways. Her humble personality keeps her cape well-hidden. She is kind, generous, creative, and a born leader. I attribute her gifts to being a native San Franciscan, with five sisters, who was raised in SF Catholic schools back in the day. Remember the ruler and the nuns? Later, as a registered nurse, we cannot imagine her years of providing important medical advice to thousands of patients on a daily basis. Now Winifred is the vision of health, beauty, and community. She participates in many activities, not just as a participant, but also as a leader and active member, who has greatly increased the number of Midtown seniors! Last but not least are her godly baking and culinary skills. We know she came from a big family because she always provides generous portions of her wonderful and decorated baked goods, always with a special ingredient. You will find that Winifred’s treats surpass anything you will find at Andronico’s and Noe Valley Bakery. All of us at Midtown cherish the contributions of Winifred Folin. May she always be blessed with a good working oven and a set of sturdy kitchen mitts.
Inner Sunset - Helen Williams
Helen Williams has been a resident of the Sunset district since 1972, when she immigrated to the US from Australia. Originally from Estonia, her mother immigrated to Australia when Helen was a child. Helen raised a son as a single parent and supported her small family as a professional massage therapist. Her concerns for the environment took root during her 19 years volunteering at her son’s middle school, where she taught students how to recycle. Her contributions to the Inner Sunset Community Connectors program extend back to 2018, when the site first opened. Helen not only helps with the cleanup of the site, but she also ensures that waste and recyclables are separated, helping to educate her neighbors on this important skill. She helps Marina, the Inner Sunset Connector, to organize the site after activities and has introduced several neighbors to our community. Helen is a strong, independent, and active senior whose concern for environmental issues and her neighbors illustrates her incredible resilience in aging. Often seen dancing in the corner while separating recyclables and compostables, Helen exemplifies a Good Neighbor as well as graceful aging with positive strength.
Potrero Hill - Michele Hangee Bauer
Michele Hangee Bauer was one of our very first participants—joining us early on for both Tech Drop-in and Chair Yoga. She often attends alongside her husband, and her presence has been a quiet but powerful force in building community. Michele consistently encourages neighbors to give the classes a try, modeling openness, consistency, and care. Her gentle advocacy and warm spirit have helped shape a welcoming environment for all. Thanks for keeping this tradition alive—it’s a joy to celebrate someone who truly embodies it
Miraloma Park - Kevin Caravello and Peter Renteria
Kevin Caravello and Peter Renteria have called Miraloma Park home for over 50 years, building a life rooted in kindness, connection, and community. Together for 37 years as a couple and married since 2008, Kevin, a retired architect, and Peter, who retired after 37 years with the U.S. Postal Service, embody what it means to be good neighbors. Their generosity shone brightly when they supported an elderly neighbor through her husband’s final days—helping with funeral arrangements, clearing out her home when she moved, and earning such trust that she named Kevin executor of her will. From private neighbors, they became beloved friends. Their kindness extended to other older women in the neighborhood, offering rides to the grocery store, sharing dinners, or joining them at the movies. When new residents move in, Kevin and Peter ensure everyone feels welcome, hosting block gatherings and festive holiday happy hours featuring themed cocktails inspired by The Cocktailian column in the San Francisco Chronicle. They also take pride in maintaining their street, sweeping their property, and assisting others, carrying forward the values learned from their parents and grandparents about respecting elders and helping others. Now, in their later years, they are planning to age well in place, making thoughtful home renovations such as installing roll-in showers, widening doorways, adding grab bars, improving lighting, and relocating their bedroom downstairs with a new deck. Through their care for others and each other, Kevin and Peter truly exemplify the spirit of good neighbors—showing that community thrives when compassion leads the way.
Cayuga - Barbara Fugate
Barbara Fugate, this year’s Good Neighbor of the Year, is known as Cayuga’s heart and helping hand—a tireless force for kindness, connection, and community. For more than 40 years, she has embodied what it means to be a true neighbor, serving as president, treasurer, and newsletter writer for the Cayuga Neighborhood Improvement Association (CNIA) and leading countless efforts, from Halloween parties and Easter egg hunts to neighborhood cleanups and the Cayuga Playground renovation with Rec and Park. Born in Marin County to parents who modeled the joy of community service, Barb learned early that connection begins with simple acts—walking a dog, making a call, chatting on the street. Her philosophy is direct: “Get involved. Keep your eyes open. Do what you can when you can.” That belief has guided her through decades of advocacy and volunteerism, including service on community advisory boards such as the Vehicle Triage Site, where she helped bridge the gap between the city and local residents and rallied donations for families in need. Alongside Glenda Hope, she helped launch the Cayuga Community Connectors, which support older adults aging in place. As a NERT trainer, she has long championed earthquake preparedness and neighborhood safety. For over two decades, Barb has also supported U.S. troops overseas, personally “adopting” more than 500 soldiers through her USA Troop Support efforts—sending weekly letters and handmade comic books to service members in Afghanistan and Iraq, determined to ensure they felt remembered and appreciated. Her compassion extends to her weekly work at the Food Bank at Church Christ For All Nations, where she ensures families have access to nutritious food. Through every stage of her life, Barb has shown that being a good neighbor means noticing what others need and acting with love; because of her, Cayuga is a stronger, kinder, and more connected community.
St. Francis Square - Nancy Nagano.
Over the many years Nancy has lived at St Francis Square Co-op, we’ve noticed that:
She makes neighbors feel really welcome with her community-building and socializing.
She’s a go-to person — often, people go to her to report problems, and she helps with taking issues to our office.
She’s an involved neighbor who wants safety and other concerns addressed.
She is fondly loved by dogs and their owners, walking neighbors’ dogs all around the Square.
She frequently gives kids seasonal and holiday gifts.
She brings food to neighbors who are sick, and especially reaches out to new residents, and
She is always a friendly face to all.
Chinese Language Tech - Amy Chiu
Amy has been one of our most dedicated participants, joining our online classes at the very start of the pandemic. She’s always ready to lend a hand—supporting Wanda and fellow participants with patience and kindness. Whether it’s offering tech help, encouraging others to join in class celebrations, or helping them make videos to showcase their work, Amy goes above and beyond. Even when she doesn’t know the answer, she takes the initiative to find out and share it with others. She’s also a natural leader, often organizing and leading group performances. Her generosity, enthusiasm, and teamwork make her an invaluable part of our community.
Inner Sunset Connector - Winnie Fung
Winnie Fung has been generously volunteering to teach a dance class at St. John of God Church every Monday afternoon for about a year. A retired dance teacher, Winnie brings both her talent and her heart to every class. She not only teaches with skill and enthusiasm but also takes time to truly connect with her students—listening, chatting, and creating a warm, welcoming environment. Always thoughtful and caring, she often helps clean up after class and looks out for her neighbors, offering assistance and inviting them to join our activities. Winnie understands what her students need and tailors her lessons to match their interests and abilities. She is more than a teacher—she’s a wonderful friend, neighbor, and cherished member of our community.
Crocker Amazon Connector - Lisa Wu
Lisa Wu has been volunteering to teach a dance class at Crocker Amazon for about two years, sharing not only her talent but also her deep care for the community and her students. In addition to leading the class, she often brings dance dresses and accessories for the group, adding joy and creativity to every session. Lisa takes time to talk with participants, listen to their needs, and tailor her lessons to what they most want to learn. Her warmth and generosity make everyone feel included and inspired. Lisa is more than a dedicated volunteer—her kindness, creativity, and genuine care make her a beloved presence in our community.
Crocker Amazon Connector - Yvonne Brooks
Cayuga Community Connector - Mei Lieng
Since 2024, Mei Lieng has volunteered at the Cayuga and Crocker Amazon Connector sites whenever she can. She is a very active and dedicated member who truly cares about the community and neighborhood. Mei is always willing to lend a hand—whether it’s bringing equipment like chairs for activities or assisting other participants. Her consistent support and generosity make her an invaluable part of our program, the community, and the neighborhood.
METCC - Reiko Hatakeyama
Lightning does strike twice, actors win multiple Oscars, and a Good Neighbor once is honored again…Reiko Hatakeyama, METCC Good Neighbor 2025, has been a good neighbor without needing accolades. A founding participant in the MET Connector site and a longtime resident of the Merced Triangle neighborhood, Reiko continues to exercise, socialize, and connect when able. Family and life matters keep her away, as they do us all, but she always returns, bringing a gift of food, an offering of recycled books and household items, or a mix of greeting cards to sign for METCC friends who can no longer attend due to health issues.
In 2025, Reiko began offering her sustainable practice and service of refilling ballpoint pens. By appointment and announcement, Reiko brings her kit of ink refills and will refresh your favorite pen during our social hour. No charge. A small and active way to keep household items out of the trash.
OMI Grocery Network - Sandra Williams
Sandra has been a valued member of the OMI Lakeview community for over 30 years. Deeply familiar with our neighbors, she has dedicated her time volunteering with the OMI Community at the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank and working with the San Francisco Unified School District. Several neighbors have reached out to CLC’s Connector to share their appreciation for Sandra’s professionalism, enthusiasm, and commitment to the program. We are truly fortunate to have her as part of our HDGP each week and at other extended community events.
Sunnyside - Kathleen (Kathy) Hoegger
We are delighted to honor Kathy Hoegger as Sunnyside’s 2025 Good Neighbor. She has shown support for CLC from the start- with her contributions of art supplies, clothes for Swap Not Shop, her welcoming energy, and more. Kathy was born and raised in San Francisco by a mother who was an immigrant from Italy, and a Father born in the U.S., but his family from the same area of Italy as her mom. She lived in the outer Mission/Excelsior area. Kathy went to SF public schools: Glen Park Elementary, Luther Burbank Junior High, Lowell High School and SFSU. She has been married to Ken Hoegger since 1969, and they have 2 children and 3 grandchildren. Kathy worked as a teacher with SFUSD until 1985, then worked in her husband’s real estate business through the present, and now she does light bookkeeping for their business. She has lived on Mt. Davidson, in the same house, since 1972. Kathy also was a SFUSD School Volunteer for several years during this century. Kathy knows lots of friends and neighbors in Sunnyside and all over Mt. Davidson. She has a great neighborhood, with a friendly neighborhood spirit, and that is why she loves her Monday TaiChi classes! <<
Bayview - Jimmy Taylor
Jimmy Taylor has been volunteering as a food bagger with the Bayview CLC Home Delivered Grocery Program for five years. Jimmy became a volunteer of the program because he wanted to give back after reflecting on how good God has been to him. When Chester Williams, his computer teacher, told him about this opportunity, he knew it was the perfect fit.
“I feel the Home Delivered Grocery Program is a wonderful program. It helps people who can’t easily get out to shop by providing them with much-needed groceries. The volunteers I worked with at the Bayview CLC Home Delivered Grocery Program are amazing, and every Thursday we have a ball together. I’m truly grateful to spend time with such kind and dedicated people.”
Outside of volunteering, Jimmy enjoys early morning walks around Candlestick Park or India Basin. He loves artwork and enjoys visiting museums. He also enjoys zoos (especially since he once worked at one). Observing animals watching how they interact with each other and with visitors always fascinates him. He is a big fan of blues music and enjoys going to blues festivals.
His hobbies include photography, oil painting (whenever he can get his hands on the materials), and he and his wife have also been gardening for ten years, and they love the wholesomeness of growing and eating organic foods.
Sidewalk Search Party - Anne Averill, Barbara Bella, and Susan Gage
Anne’s Waddle Request about the hazardous sidewalk outside her apartment sparked the party’s interest back in November 2023.
Barbara and Susan’s outreach after the Russian Hill Neighborhood Waddle, along with their commitment to reporting dangerous sidewalks and mapping them for repairs, is truly inspiring. Their leadership highlights the power of community action and meaningful change.
SF ReServe - Eileen Picardo
Eileen Picardo is a native San Franciscan who grew up in Little Hollywood, Visitacion Valley.
Eileen worked at a law firm in the Embarcadero for almost 20 years. She is currently an SF ReServist and has been working her magic with residents and guests at The Campus for Jewish Living for five years. They recently recognized her as an Employee of the Year.
When circumstances required Eileen to move back to her home in Visitacion Valley after losing her husband, Cayuga neighbors joined together and carpooled her to Bethel Church twice a week, where the group meets. Eileen is a valued and essential part of the neighborhood.
Eileen quickly became a part of the Cayuga Community Connectors. She attends all activities and social functions and is a member of the memoir writing group. Eileen loves karaoke, dancing, and all the camaraderie the group offers.
As an SF ReServist and as a neighbor, Eileen always has a smile and a kind word for everyone.