His daily job calls for him to protect and serve -- but a Storey County deputy has also made it his mission to look after senior citizens and tonight we honor him with the Jefferson Award for community service.
Deputy John-Michael Mendoza has been the sheriff's department in Storey County for 14 years. And he says one of the things he enjoys most is taking the time to check on seniors who can use a helping hand or even just a little company.
Whether it is helping them carry in the groceries or shovel the sidewalk in the winter, Deputy Mendoza is there to look out for people who may not have anyone to look after them. And he says it’s a great source of satisfaction.
“I don't know how to describe it in words but it makes me feel very proud, that what I'm doing is making a difference.”
Deputy Mendoza says he is hoping to get Storey County to set aside an upcoming month as Senior Awareness month to bring more attention to the cause.
