Several communities around the Commonwealth honored outstanding volunteers at special ceremonies and events recently. Organizations and individuals were recognized in Roanoke, Fairfax, Hanover and Alexandria over the last few weeks. Their efforts not only served communities in need across the Commonwealth, but also across the U.S. and abroad.
The 24th Annual Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards were held April 8. A record number of nominations were accepted for this year's award and Cabot Creamery was on hand to gift a deserving volunteer with an Alaskan Cruise. Kathy Hertz was awarded a Point of Light Award for her amazing work in a Greek refugee camp. Visit Volunteer Fairfax for more on the ceremony, nominees, awardees and photos. See additional photos on Facebook.
On April 13, HandsOn Blue Ridge hosted the 2016 Community Volunteer Service Celebration on the rooftop of Center in the Square in Roanoke. The event sponsored by Freedom First Credit Union recognized the outstanding efforts of volunteers in the Roanoke Valley. Individuals and groups from numerous Roanoke nonprofits, including Roanoke Valley RSVP and Volunteer Generation Fund volunteers, were recognized for the work they do that goes above and beyond. Volunteer recognized this year build homes, tutor children, provide tours and information at local museums, respond to victims of sexual violence, sort and package food for local food banks, deliver meals to elderly seniors, and provide facility improvements at nonprofits – just an example of all of the amazing work done by volunteers across our community! See additional photos on Facebook.
The Hanover Spirit of Volunteerism Awards, held May 3, celebrated the volunteerism efforts of individuals and organizations in Hanover County. Recipients included: Brianna Grooms (Spirit of Youth Award), Mike Smith (Spirit of Dedication), The Hall Family (Spirit of Family), Cool Spring Challenger Sports Leadership Team (Spirit of Team), Julie Hendricks (Spirit of One), Jane Hughes (Spirit of One), Patricia N. Rudolph (Spirit of Inspiration), and Pepicelli’s Pizza (Commitment to Community). All nominees received a certificate of recognition signed by the Hanover Board of Supervisors. Honorees received a plaque and a contribution of $250 will be given to the organization for which they have volunteered to further honor their service to the community.
VOLUNTEER Alexandria also honored the winners of their philanthropy and community awards on May 3. Ray Crowell, named Outstanding Veteran of the Year, is a U.S. Air Force veteran committed to helping veterans build sustainable and scalable businesses. Whole Foods Market Old Town, named Large Business Philanthropist of the Year, has committed to helping end hunger in Alexandria by engaging its customers and donating funds and goods. Port City Brewing Company's Bill Butcher, named Small Business Philanthropist of the Year, has engaged on all levels to support the Alexandria community.
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