Goodyear City Council honors 2024 citizens of the year

Three individuals and organizations were recognized by the Goodyear City Council at its meeting on Feb. 25 for their outstanding contributions to the community, with awards for Citizen of the Year, Corporate Citizen of the Year, and Youth Citizen of the Year.

Bonnie Lewis named citizen of the year

Bonnie Lewis was named 2024 Citizen of the Year for her lifelong commitment to the arts and her role in strengthening Goodyear’s cultural landscape. A professional artist and founder of the nonprofit organization Catitude Arts, Lewis has dedicated her efforts to helping individuals of all ages pursue careers in the arts.

She opened a sign company on Western Avenue in the 1980s, served with the Western Avenue Merchants Association, and was a key member of the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce. Lewis also served as one of the first arts and culture commissioners after the city’s public and performing arts ordinance passed in 2006.

Lewis is known for creating the “Follow Your Art Junior” program, a free summer initiative for teens, which has helped develop young artists now participating in Goodyear’s public art projects.

In her acceptance speech, Lewis thanked the city for the opportunity to make a difference.  “I want to thank the city of Goodyear, the mayor and council for giving us these opportunities," Lewis said. “These things don’t happen in a vacuum.”

Friends of the Southwest Family Advocacy Center Named Corporate Citizen of the Year

The Friends of the Southwest Family Advocacy Center received the 2024 Corporate Citizen of the Year award for its dedication to supporting victims of abuse in the southwest valley. Established in 2016, the center provides a collaborative environment for professionals in law enforcement, child protection, mental health, and victim advocacy to assist individuals facing child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and elder abuse.

The nonprofit organization has been instrumental in exceeding service levels by providing additional resources to families, including clothing, transportation, security devices, and therapy. In 2024, the organization helped more than 200 families in need.

Ameera Singh Honored as Youth Citizen of the Year

Ameera Singh, a senior at Goodyear High School, was recognized as the 2024 Youth Citizen of the Year for her dedication to community service. Singh has served as chair of the Goodyear Youth Commission for four years, ensuring that the youth voice is represented in city initiatives. She also organized the West Valley Youth Council Summit, an annual event she managed with professionalism and enthusiasm.

In addition to her work with the Youth Commission, Singh has volunteered at city events, helped with neighborhood cleanups, and participated in community outreach programs. Academically, she excels while balancing a rigorous school schedule and leadership roles in clubs such as Future Farmers of America and Arizona Mock Trial.

“I’m a high school senior this year, so I’ve reached the pinnacle of the mountain I’m on now,” Singh said in her acceptance speech. “But as I look down, there are so many people climbing up. Who are those people you’re helping up the mountain?”

The Goodyear City Council expressed gratitude for the honorees' contributions and looks forward to their continued impact on the community.

Visit goodyearaz.gov for more information.