The Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming announced that Bill Daniels is posthumously recognized as the 2016 honoree for the 18th annual Awards and Recognition breakfast to be held Tuesday, August 30th, 2016 at the Casper Events Center.

Bill Daniels was a born entrepreneur, widely considered one of the great business visionaries of the twentieth century. Bill began his business career by opening an insurance agency in Casper, Wyoming. On a drive home after visiting family in New Mexico, Bill stopped for lunch in Denver. A boxing match flickered on a small black and white screen behind the bar. It was Bill’s first encounter with television, and he was captivated. He learned that many small towns — including Casper — did not have access to TV. As a result, Bill started building Casper’s first cable system in 1952.

Over the years, Bill made countless charitable contributions and supported his community in innovative, meaningful ways. Bill provided significant support to innovative education efforts. Bill’s concern for those in need, and the organizations that help them, motivated his personal involvement. He did more than just sign checks, he spent time with people facing life’s challenges and wanted to understand their situations. While money was an important part of his contributions, his visible support of charitable causes also served as an inspiration for others. He was devoted to helping our most vulnerable or disadvantaged neighbors achieve happier, healthier, and more productive lives.

Bill spent his final years planning the Daniels Fund, and providing the specific direction that guides its operation. When he passed away in 2000, Bill’s estate transferred to the Daniels Fund, forming its base of assets and making it one of the largest foundations in the Rocky Mountain region.

The Daniels Fund continues Bill Daniels’ legacy of compassion and generosity by providing grants to outstanding nonprofit organizations, and scholarships to deserving students, in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming.

Joining the Boys and Girls Club for the morning is guest speaker Kevin Hines. Knowing that Wyoming is often found in the top five states per capita in suicide deaths, Kevin brings a message and his path to success to Casper.

Kevin has reached international audiences with his story of an unlikely survival and will to live. When Kevin was 19-years old and recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder, he attempted to take his own life by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge. He is one of thirty-three to survive the fall and has, miraculously, regained full mobility despite the life-threatening injuries he sustained from his attempt.

Since, Kevin has become an award-winning international speaker, author, and mental health advocate. He has been featured in the critically acclaimed film "The Bridge,"on Larry King Live, 20/20, Anderson Cooper 360, Good Morning America, and Ireland's famed Tonight with Vincent Brown. In 2012, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding work as a suicide prevention advocate and speaker. He has also been recognized by SAMSHA as a Voice Awards Fellow and Award Winner, an Achievement Winner by Veterans Affairs, and he has received a Three Star Marine Generals Medal Award in addition to his numerous accolades.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Wyoming will begin taking reservations for the event in July. For more information, contact the club.

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