Local builder receives Bronze Eagle Award for providing humanitarian aid
By: Carin Enovijas
Tehachapi News

(excerpted)

Local builder William Beirne was chosen as KidCare International’s Humanitarian of the Year, and was honored with the organization’s Bronze Eagle Award for his exemplary efforts helping suffering and needy children around the world.

“I didn’t expect anything like this, they just sprung this on me,” said Beirne after accepting the award. “I know where every penny of my dollar goes, that’s why I’m with this organization,” said Beirne who has helped KidCare International send food, clothing and medical supplies to needy children in Africa, Russia, India, Mexico and the United States.

The Kapchinskis credited the Beirnes for their generosity dating back to their early years together, when Bill, as he is called by family and friends, worked as a house framer. “If they knew anybody in need, they would take groceries or clothing to people when they didn’t have anything,” said Janice, adding that Bill still feeds his workers every Friday afternoon.

“He’s not a rich, fat-cat; he started out as a framer, and he kept on going,” said Janice Kapchinski, who commends the Beirnes for their survival and perseverance through many of their own setbacks, including the loss a child. “When something like that happens, you either lose your mind, or you do something positive in life,” said Kapchinski.

The result of their positive attitude and perseverance helped to create the award the Beirnes were presented with. Larry Kapchinski explained to the crowd that the Bronze Eagle Award was chosen as representation of the strength.

Kapchinski described the bronze statue of a bird in flight as representing “the eagle, who soars above, seeing the world from a different perspective.”

The Beirnes were congratulated by city staffers, including Tehachapi Community Development Director David James. “I think it’s fantastic,” said James. "I’ve known Bill for four years now, and he’s a wonderful gentleman. I didn’t know he was so involved (with KidCare), but it doesn’t surprise me,” James said, adding that, “It is quite an honor to be recognized (as a humanitarian). It’s well deserved.”

More information about KidCare International can be found online at  www.KidCare.org