Eighteen Greenwich residents were recognized for their volunteer contributions to the Greenwich community. Over 100 people attended the Oct. 15 ceremony which took place at Greenwich Town Hall. The purpose of this annual event is to recognize “grass roots volunteers” who have contributed their time and talent to the Greenwich community. Stuart Adelberg, President of Greenwich United Way served as chair of the awards program.
The Volunteer Center, which matches volunteers with agencies that need help, annually honors residents for their active involvement in the community. Community leaders nominate volunteers on the basis of achievement and commitment to the Greenwich community.
“This year’s event recognized the efforts of many in our community who quietly give of their time and talent,” said Bridget Fox of The Volunteer Center. “Often these efforts go unrecognized and there is no more important gift to give to your community than your time and compassion. The critical work of non-profits – to shelter and feed the homeless – to care for grieving children – to work with the mentally ill – is not possible without the help of dedicated volunteers like those recognized this week.”
This year’s winners are:
- Established Youth Individual: John Clarke, for his work with Abilis, Hand and Hand and Unified Sport
- Established Youth Volunteer Group: Travis & Eric Anderson for their work with the American Red Cross
- New Adult Individual: Patrick Kramer for his work with Community Answers
- Established Adult Individual: Beth Eaton-Koch for her work with the Garden Club of Old Greenwich and Pathways
- New Adult Volunteer Group: The Associate Board of Directors of Family Centers
- Established Adult Volunteer Group: Reading Champions of United Way of Greenwich
- Established Senior Individual: Barbara Levy for her work with Shelter for the Homeless in Stamford
- Established Senior Volunteer Group: Nathaniel Witherell Rosary Volunteers.
The following Greenwich residents received Honorable Mention for their work in the community:
Kevin Cameron, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Merrilou Hillebrand, Family Centers
Peter Igoe, Meals on Wheels
Junior United Way
Linda Roberts, Family Centers
Marie Rolla, Family Centers
Margaret Sirot, Family Centers
Maureen Tracy, The Nathaniel Witherall
Will Strain, Round Hill Fire Company
The Strain Family, Round Hill Fire Company
A selection committee of Greenwich community leaders reviewed the nominations. This year, those serving on the selection committee were: Stuart Adelberg of United Way of Greenwich, Mary Ann Lendenmann of the Bruce Museum and Steviann Martines of the Greenwich Newcomer’s Club.
The Volunteer Center has been changing lives since 1973. The Center was founded by the Betsy Rich and the Junior League, with vital help from United Way.
For further information on Greenwich Volunteer Day or for information on The Volunteer Center, call Bridget Fox, 348-7714, extension 234, or email at bridget.fox@uwwesternct.org. The Volunteer Center’s web site is www.volunteercenterct.org.
