Judge, Santa Ana Service Agency Are Times’ Volunteers of the Year

Superior Court Judge Jack Mandel, who tutors students at Santa Ana High School, has won the first Los Angeles Times Volunteer of the Year award.

Mandel, who tutors students every evening after his court duties, was given the award Monday.

Hope Community Services in Santa Ana was presented with the Los Angeles Times Community Partner of the Year award for its work with low-income Vietnamese Americans.

The organization was established in 1966 and promotes a better quality of life for low-income, elderly Vietnamese Americans. The organization offers classes in English, citizenship, nutrition and health, and provides meals for senior citizens in need.

The organization has received $10,000 in grants this year from The Times.

The Times expanded its awards this year, and for the first time selected the two winners from regional competitions.

Mandel, who was nominated by Santa Ana High School, tutors students Monday through Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the school library. Mandel brings food and clothes to students, and plans educational and cultural events. He checks their report cards and talks with teachers or the principal if the students need extra help with classwork.

Mandel says he is motivated by lessons he learned in the synagogue he attended as a youth.

“If you see an opportunity to help someone, you don’t let it pass,” Mandel said. “You do something about it. You help them. You do the good deed.”