BEVERLY HILLS—The 2009 Older American of the Year award has been chosen. This year's theme: Living Today for a Better Tomorrow.

In celebration of "Older Americans Recognition Month," which is acknowledged each May, Beverly Hills resident Sol H. Stone was awarded for his services to his community and his integrity as a citizen, according to a press statement released by the city of Beverly Hills on June 1.

From left to right: Kate Ahn, Eileen Dardick, Marcia Stone, Sol Stone, Mayor Nancy Krasne. Photo provided by the City of Beverly Hills

Today, Mr. Stone says he is honored to receive the award and that he enjoys getting involved and giving back to the community.

“My parents were immigrants who came here in the early 1900s and couldn’t speak English, so they had to depend on people who could help them,” he told Canyon News. “I thought this would be something I could do to give back after retirement, and I find it very rewarding.”

Stone was presented with a proclamation by Beverly Hills Mayor Nancy Krasne and the city of Beverly Hills, part of which states in the press release: “older adults are significant members of our society, investing their wisdom and experience to help enrich and better the lives of their fellow citizens of all ages, and older adults offer experience and expertise that make them role models and mentors to younger citizens and an intergenerational link that helps to bind families and communities together.”

Stone has volunteered in Beverly Hills as a tutor with the Public Library Literacy Program since becoming a Beverly Hills resident nine years ago, taught tennis to underprivileged children and spent part of his week volunteering at People Assisting The Homeless (PATH), conducted practice interviews with participants who are looking for employment, among other dedications.

“I love playing tennis. I’ve played since college, which was many years ago,” he laughs. “I really enjoy working with the people at PATH. It was some of the people from the library who put me up for this.”

Stone’s many services have earned him the prestigious award, but his humor is what puts a smile on one’s face.

"I didn’t realize I would become a celebrity through this. Someone should tell my wife how important I am.”

And as for meeting the mayor, “I’ve met one other mayor before, but it was absolutely delightful to meet Mayor Krasne.”