In a heartfelt assembly at Shaffer School, the Lassen County community came together to honor two extraordinary young girls, Savanna and Ashlee Zimmerman, with the inaugural Lassen County Youth Hometown Hero Award. This new award recognizes courageous individuals who exemplify kindness and selflessness through heroic acts.
Superintendent of Schools Patricia Gunderson, along with members of CalFire Engine 2271, the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office, Lassen County Emergency Services, and the City of Susanville Police Department, presented the awards to the young heroes. Their bravery recently shone through in a dangerous situation when the sisters noticed a fire had ignited in their grandparents’ home. Acting quickly, they alerted their grandparents, ensuring that everyone was safely evacuated before notifying the authorities who promptly extinguished the fire.
“Savanna and Ashlee displayed remarkable courage and quick thinking in a moment of crisis,” said Superintendent Gunderson. “Their actions serve as an inspiring example of community spirit and heroism.”
The girls were awarded a certificate of appreciation signed by Lassen County Sheriff John McGarva, Lassen County Superintendent of Schools Patricia Gunderson, and Emergency Services Chief Silas Rojas. Additionally, they received specially decorated Hometown Hero water bottles sponsored by the Lassen County Office of Education and a gift card donated by Joe’s Coffee Shop as a token of gratitude for their selfless actions.
Thanks to the Zimmerman sisters’ bravery, all family members were safe, demonstrating the profound impact of quick thinking and community vigilance.
If you know of a youth member of our community that is deserving of this award in the future, please email Kaitlyn Midgley at [email protected].
Submitted by Kaitlyn Midgley, LCOE Communications Specialist
