Outstanding volunteers were recognized on April 21 at the 33rd Annual Volunteers of the Year Awards. The event at the Bob Kirby Branch of the Warren County Public Library was sponsored by WNKY News 40, American Legion Post 23, BGMU, and Drakes Creek Middle School Youth Services Center.
Anne Grubbs Spirit of Service Award: Matthew Brown
This award recognizes individuals who excel in quality, length, and spirit of service to others.
Matthew has been the driving force behind Bowling Green’s Saturday Meals program since late 2013, providing nutritious meals to low-income individuals. As chef and operations manager, he orchestrates food procurement, menu planning, and compliance with regulatory agencies, volunteering his time and expertise before dawn each Saturday. Under Matthew’s leadership, the program has grown to serve over 11,700 meals annually, reflecting his culinary prowess and dedication. His ability to foster teamwork among volunteers and his decade-long commitment to serving the community make him a deserving honoree.
Team Spirit Award: BGMU
This award recognizes those groups who work together to provide volunteer service in the community.
BGMU has been nominated for its longstanding partnership with various community programs and events. Through sponsorships and volunteer efforts, BGMU has supported initiatives like Stand for Children Day, Blockbusters at the Ballpark, and Volunteers in Action. Their commitment to community involvement extends beyond their utility services, as they actively participate in events and programs benefiting organizations such as Barren River Area Child Advocacy Center, Birdies for Brittney, Feeding America, Junior Achievement, Stuff the Bus Foundation, United Way of Southern Kentucky, and our local public and private schools. BGMU’s dedication to making Bowling Green a vibrant and supportive community is evident through their volunteerism and sponsorship, making them deserving recipients of the Team Spirit Award.
Rising Star Award: Wannie Elliot
This award recognizes an individual or team who is new to volunteering and gaining momentum with your organization.
Mr. Wannie is being recognized for his exceptional volunteerism, despite being relatively new to the RSVP program. His unwavering dedication and service, totaling 3,0038.5 hours in just two years, has had a significant impact. His commitment to serving approximately 650 needy families per month, providing over 840,000 pounds of food in just two years, reflects his remarkable contribution to his community. His compassionate heart dipped in gold and his dedication to helping others have earned him recognition as a Rising Star.
Inaugural Young Leader Award: Kimber Doyle
This award recognizes an individual or team who is 18 years old or younger providing volunteer service in the community.
Kimber’s dedication to serving others, starting from a young age with Toys for Tots, exemplifies her exceptional leadership qualities. Her role as a Toys for Tots Youth Ambassador and subsequent recognition as Youth Ambassador Mentor of the Year showcase her commitment to promoting community service among youth. Kimber’s selflessness extends beyond Toys for Tots, as she actively engages in initiatives to support nursing home residents and the unhoused population. Her passion for service and remarkable achievements make her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award, and it is with excitement we look forward to seeing the impact she will continue to make in the future.
Spirit of Community Award: WNKY News 40
This award recognizes an organization or business that merits special recognition for volunteer service in the community.
As the Spirit of Community Award winner, WNKY News 40 is praised for its dedication to local news and its significant contributions to various organizations and events in the SOKY area. They support causes ranging from animal rescue to health awareness, cultural enrichment, community development, and family support. Their involvement spans diverse initiatives like food insecurity relief, education, and homelessness. Their impact on the community, including partnerships like Food Truck Fridays, reflects their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others, earning them recognition and gratitude from the Executive Committee of Volunteers in Action.
Other volunteers recognized included Hollyn Dale, Manny VanDyne, Nancy Bussiere, Ben Jarboe, Susan Oliver Lewis, Dr. Don Butler, Robin Davis, Dorothy Hines, Alice Kummer, Eric Mullinix, Michael Stoyonovich, and Dick Webber.
Special thanks to Christ Global Methodist Church, Me & My Girls Catering, Oak Tree Awards and Recognition, Rickman Pottery, and Warren County Public Library.
Volunteers in Action is made up of organizations that rely on volunteers. For more information on VIA or the VIA Volunteers of the Year Awards, contact Joshua Smith at 270-842-4281 or jsmith@commed.us.
-submitted by Community Education
