Nick Howell, a longtime board member and supporter of the Pasadena-based nonprofit Young & Healthy, received the organization’s prestigious J. Donald Thomas Award at its recent Western-themed gala.
Howell, a South Pasadena resident, first became familiar with Young & Healthy through his wife Caroline’s involvement in the Pasadena Children’s Guild.
“Nick has been at the very heart of Young & Healthy,” said Ellen Kramer, the organization’s executive director. “He embodies what our organization is all about. He is such a kind and generous man, and he and Caroline have laid the groundwork to help us serve the kids of Pasadena.
“He has been such a faithful board member and such a leader in our organization. We are so fortunate that he has been here to help us grow. He is an inspiration and really understands volunteerism. I think about all he and Caroline have done. He is such a shining spirit.”
Howell spent more than 30 years working in health care, serving both health insurers and care delivery systems while working for Accenture and UnitedHealth Group.
Through his career serving health care entities, he developed a recognition of the human impact of having limited access to health care and coverage, and the social determinants of health outcomes. This sparked his passion for engaging with Young & Healthy, where he has served on the board for the past six years and chaired the organization’s finance committee for four years.
“Nick and Caroline have been huge supporters of Young & Healthy,” said Director of Development Jan Cantwell. “We appreciate all of the help and care they have given us through the years.”
First published in the October 27 print issue of the South Pasadena Review.
