San Diego Legends: San Diego County Library

About the Program

Category: Arts, Culture and Historic Preservation (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

The San Diego County Library Legends project is an annual initiative that recognizes a cohort of 4-5 local community elders that lead by example and have made outstanding contributions to society. Recognition of the positive impact made by people from all backgrounds is an essential component of promoting social equality. The County Library aims to inspire people to live meaningful lives by emphasizing the accomplishments of local residents who have quietly but surely changed the world. The Legends exemplify lifestyles that embrace our diversity, spiritual integrity, humanism and healthy living – their lives and accomplishments are a testament to the nobility of hard work, respect for each other, commitment and a ‘greater good.’ Each year a new cohort of Legends is celebrated through oil portraiture, photography, narrative, and special events. A project that began in 2013, as a tribute to elders quickly transformed into a community catalyst, an opportunity to engage, bridge, and convene multigenerational and multicultural communities and populations. The Legends program is provided in partnership with the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency’s Aging and Independent Services (AIS).