Sandpiper of the Year

Established in 1952, the Sandpiper of the Year award is given to an Associate or Life Member in recognition of and appreciation for continued participation in Sandpipers’ philanthropic work beyond her Active years.

Sandpipers is pleased to honor Buckita Leff as the 2007 – 2008 Sandpiper of the Year.

Buckita joined Sandpipers in 1990.  As an Active Member she served as Social Chair, Philanthropy Vice President, and Membership Vice President.  By 1996, she was President.  During that time, she founded our Summer Arts Program and also developed the relationship with our Holiday Baskets benefactor, fondly called Mr. Anonymous.  Both of these programs continue today.

Buckita was also instrumental in the development of the partnership that came together to create For Our Children, which also continues strong today.  Over the years she has been very supportive of our TeamWorks Beach Day, hosting it at her home on the beach for the last 10 years.  In addition, she has opened her home to Sandpipers as a participant in the Holiday Homes Tour.

As an Associate, Buckita is always volunteering at Holiday Baskets, bringing her boys and this last year another young male volunteer group that she has spearheaded. 

She attends Associate functions and has chaired the Associates Silent Auction at Founders’ Day for the last three years.  She is always enthusiastic and supportive of Sandpipers and is most deserving to be our 2007 Sandpiper of the Year.

Congratulations Buckita Leff!