Winners and nominees were honored at the Supervisor’s Community Service Awards Dinner at the Hanover Township Senior Center on Thursday, April 23.
A group of volunteers reviewed the nominations submitted by the community for awards in five categories. Nominations were judged on the service activities of the individual, local business, or community organization, as well as the impact these activities have on the community.
Awards were presented to: Dhanvi Dhandapani, Youth Volunteer; Calvin Leiser, Adult Volunteer; Robert Younglove, Senior Volunteer; St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Service Organization of the Year; and Never Ending Cycles, Business Organization of the Year.
Volunteers reviewing this year’s nominations included Chairperson Marv Kramer, Lori Ann Airdo, Adam Kanyuh, Kerrie Trebonsky, and Mary Wojtczak.
“The quantity and quality of the nominations submitted each year are truly amazing,” said Brian P. McGuire, Hanover Township Supervisor. “From students to seniors, the selfless service from so many individuals, businesses, and service groups is a true testament to the strong volunteer spirit in the Township.”
Those receiving the Supervisor’s Choice Awards included: Janely Malagon, Youth Volunteer; Chris Pawelkiewicz and Adam Kanyuh, Adult Volunteer; Paul Balwierz and Linda Fudacz, Senior Volunteer; Communities that Care, Service Organization of the Year; and Ascension Illinois, Business Organization of the Year.
Kathy Biesiadecki was presented with the event’s top recognition, the Mary Ellen “Mel” Runzel Volunteer Service Award. A resident of Streamwood, Kathy has been an active volunteer at the Township Senior Center for many years, delivering meals to homebound older adults and chaperoning trips. She also served on the Hanover Township Mental Health Board for over 10 years in a variety of roles, including Chairperson.
The award was created in 2013 to honor Mel for her immeasurable efforts in creating new programs and recruiting volunteers as a former Township Trustee and Township Welfare Services Director.
