(Canton, OH) April 17, 2018 – Forty-three years ago, National Volunteer Week was established to recognize friends, neighbors, colleagues and family members who generously contribute their time and talent to help our community thrive. United Way of Greater Stark County and Gatehouse Media collaborated on a special newspaper insert that was published April 16th, acknowledging volunteers who go above and beyond. Volunteer categories included: Impact, Youth Volunteer Leadership, Behind-the-Scenes, Outside the Box, Collaboration of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.
“Engaging in community service helps individuals learn first-hand the needs of the community, and how to make an impact” says United Way of Greater Stark County President and CEO Maria Heege. “Volunteering enables local residents to take on new challenges, learn new skills and gain confidence. We appreciate and honor all of the amazing, local heroes who selflessly contribute their time and talent.”
There were 6 winners this year. Impact Winner: Katrina Fitzgerald’s passion, energy and commitment to the creating and implementing the new volunteer group, Labor CARES, and her dedication to Women of Steel helped her win this award. Outside the Box Winner: Sue Boettler offers workshops for parents and teachers seeking help for children with learning disabilities, as well as teaching children to read and spell. Youth Leadership Winner: Nine-year-old Logan Kuhn started his own group to raise money and feed children our community. Behind-the-Scenes Winner: J. Sean Keenan’s leadership helps more people gain fair and equal footing in the justice system with Community Legal Aid. Volunteer of the Year Winner: Hank Kozub was nominated by two organizations and helps out at the Catholic Charities serving Portage and Stark Counties pantry, spends time at the Adult Day Services center and assists at the annual fundraiser. Collaboration of the Year Winner: Stark Tuscarawas Workforce Development Board and United Way of Greater Stark County Board of Directors worked together to create the Economic Mobility Center, formerly Financial Prosperity Center, at OhioMeansJobs, helping local residents become more financially stable.
“We encourage everyone to visit United Way of Greater Stark County’s newly updated Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) at www.uwstark.org/volunteer,” says Cynthia Vignos, UWGSC Vice President of Marketing & Strategic Communications. “The webpage is easy to navigate, and connects volunteers with all kinds of local organizations that can use some extra help.” Contact Cynthia at [email protected] or (330)491-9954 for more information on volunteering or for assistance navigating the VRC.
About United Way of Greater Stark County
United Way of Greater Stark County fights for the Health, Education and Financial Stability of every person in every community. The agency collaborates, convenes, and partners to support programs and initiatives that break the cycle of poverty, promote a healthy community where children are successful from kindergarten through graduation to a career, and where families have the tools, skills, and support they need to become financially independent. We win by living United. For more information about United Way of Greater Stark County visit www.uwstark.org. Headquarters are at 401 Market Avenue North, Suite 300, Canton, Ohio 44702. (330) 491-0445.
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