Honoring Our Heroes: A Night of Gratitude at the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the quiet heroes among us—the volunteers who selflessly give their time, energy, and passion to brighten our communities—but on a special evening last Thursday, these unsung heroes were honored at the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, where their invaluable contributions were celebrated with heartfelt gratitude.

In 2023, volunteers collectively devoted an astonishing 4,428 hours, equivalent to a monetary value of $140,939. From delivering Meals on Wheels to organizing recreational programs, lending a hand with home repairs to providing companionship to seniors, each hour dedicated to these causes embodies the spirit of generosity that defines our community.

The dinner was attended by volunteers who had given 25 or more hours of service in the past year. As volunteers mingled and reminisced about their experiences, the air was filled with a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. From the Tree Lighting Ceremony to Basketball Clinics, from events to blanket making for shelters—every initiative, big or small, played a vital role in enriching the lives of those in our community.

The evening was a sensory delight, including delicious food and sweet treats as an expression of our gratitude. Thank you to the following sponsors for helping us celebrate our volunteers:

• Meijer Marketplace
• Busch’s Fresh Food Market – Rochester Hills
• Bake House 46
• Nothing Bundt Cakes
• Gordon Food Service
• Whole Foods Market

Mayor Brian Marzolf delivered a speech underscoring the invaluable contributions of our dedicated volunteers. Two exceptional individuals were honored for their extraordinary dedication and impact. Lucy Lukasavitz received the Director’s Award for Volunteer of the Year. Lucy epitomizes the spirit of service, always ready to lend a helping hand at city events like the Tree Lighting ceremony and Senior Dinners. Her boundless energy and unwavering dedication have touched countless lives. Roxiann Browns of American House Stone was recognized with the 2024 Director’s Award for her steadfast support, which includes providing lunches and organizing senior bingo sessions. Her generosity and partnership have enriched our programs and strengthened our community bonds.

The true beauty of the event lay in the connections formed and the collective goodwill shared. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community, and their efforts remind us of the impact we can have when we come together with open hearts and willing hands. As we reflect on an unforgettable evening, let us carry the spirit of gratitude and generosity with us, nurturing it like a delicate flower and allowing it to bloom wherever we go. For in the garden of kindness, every act of service, no matter how small, has the power to sow seeds of hope and cultivate a brighter tomorrow for us all.

Elaine Evans, Volunteer Services Specialist, and Bridget Prohaszka, Nutrition Programs Team Lead