Bob Sydow & Lynn Hedani
The 2026 Angel Award is presented with deep gratitude to Bob Sydow and Lynn Hedani for their extraordinary generosity and unwavering dedication to Mychal’s Learning Place.
Bob and Lynn were first introduced to Mychal’s through their dear friend, Suzanne Sharer, whose passion for supporting meaningful causes inspired them to get involved. What began as curiosity quickly became a lasting commitment. They felt a personal connection to Mychal’s mission, having experienced the heartbreaking loss of their daughter, Elizabeth, in 1993. They share that Elizabeth would have benefited from the programs at Mychal’s and would have loved this environment. Because of that, the work being done – creating opportunities, dignity, and belonging for individuals with developmental disabilities – holds a very special place in their hearts.
They are continually moved by the students, families, and staff, and each year they leave the Luncheon inspired by Ed and by the parents who entrust Mychal’s with their children’s futures. Supporting those families has become deeply meaningful to them. They also admire the scope and scale of what Mychal’s has built and appreciate its commitment to sustainability – using Ed’s vision and local initiative to create programs and opportunities without relying entirely on government assistance.
Bob and Lynn have lived in the South Bay for 44 years and are active members of the community, as are their other two children, Rebecca and Brian. They enjoy traveling the world, fly fishing, gardening, reading, and spending time with their grandchildren (ages 5 and 3) who live just a few blocks away. They are also wine enthusiasts and co-founders of Calluna Vineyards in Sonoma, producer of the wines donated for the last few luncheons. They both come from large, loving families and were raised with the belief that if you are fortunate enough to be part of a strong community, you should give back to it and those in need.
Because of supporters like Bob and Lynn, Mychal’s has been able to grow in meaningful ways -developing our programs further, expanding Mychal’s Print & Embroidery, and opening our first brick & mortar location for Mychal’s Café & Bakery. Their kindness has helped create real opportunities for the individuals we serve. As Suzanne, a friend for well over a decade, beautifully says, “Their ongoing generosity, especially for children’s charities in our community, has been incredibly impactful. Their love and support of Mychal’s has been instrumental in our expansion and inspires others to give each year at the Luncheon – Bob is always the first to raise his paddle. You truly deserve this award, my friends, and thank you for all that you do!”
For these reasons and many more, we are honored to present the 2026 Angel Award to Bob Sydow and Lynn Hedani.
