BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- The Bakersfield Police Activities League named Beth Hoffmann as the 2024 Hometown Hero. The PAL program provides a safe space for underprivileged youth in after-school and summer programs. BCSD to add crossing guard near Roosevelt Elementary 2 weeks after student was fatally struck by vehicle Beth Hoffmann, who along with her husband Tom, founded Hoffmann Hospice back in 1995. The event was held at Luigi's Warehouse. "I don't know how she and everybody around her at Hoffmann Hospice really do what they do day in and day out because you are dealing with incredibly difficult circumstances and at the same time what a gift it is that they're able to give to people who are facing the end of life," BPD Chief Greg Terry said. Never miss a story: Make KGET.com your homepage Beth Hoffmann spoke to 17 News at the event saying, "I love Bakersfield, I was born and raised here. I love Bakersfield. It's quite an honor to be here tonight, kind of embarrassing, but I'm very happy. I'm very blessed to be here." Bakersfield PAL also awarded "Kids of the Year award" to Xavier, Leah, and Isiah Alcala.