33 Michiganders be honored at 2026 Governor’s Service Awards
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Community Service Commission announced the 33 individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations who will be honored at the 2026 Governor’s Service Awards on Nov. 19 in Flint for their commitment to service and volunteerism throughout their communities.
“Michiganders are always willing to lend a helping hand, and we are proud to honor those who have gone above and beyond to improve their communities,” said Governor Whitmer. “I look forward to celebrating these 33 honorees, whose dedication and selflessness is an example to us all. We are grateful for their incredible stories and commitment to making the world around them a better place. Let’s keep working together to uplift our neighbors and build a brighter Michigan for all.”
To recognize those who demonstrate outstanding commitment to service, the Governor’s Service Awards have been presented since 1994. The Michigan Community Service Commission supports Michigan volunteers, organizations and businesses that are committed to service and have an indispensable role within their communities.
“The Michigan Community Service Commission is excited to recognize the individuals and organizations that are making an impact and strengthening our communities,” said Michigan Community Service Commission Executive Director Ginna Holmes. “We are looking forward to an incredible evening celebrating volunteerism in Michigan.”
The winners include:
Excellence in Philanthropy: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation (Flint)
Lifetime Humanitarian Award: James J. Blanchard (Beverly Hills)
Governor George Romney Lifetime Achievement Award: Robert Kulisheck (Marquette)
Corporate Social Impact Leader Award: Genisys Credit Union (Auburn Hills), Lineage Inc. (Novi)
Older Adult Volunteer of Year: Ed Coke (Lowell), Keith and Donna Kolodsick (Northville), Deb Ralya (Holland), Doug and Kim Wood (Muskegon)
Youth Volunteer of the Year: Abdarrahman Akhilurrahman (Ann Arbor), Drew O. Coleman (Muskegon Heights), Jihyun Ko (Ypsilanti), Sumith Madasu (Novi), Shayan Siddiqui (Bloomfield Hills)
Community Impact Award: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ®, Alpha Rho Omega Chapter (Detroit), Michigan Irish Music Festival (Muskegon), Michigan Library Association (Lansing), Saginaw County Community Action Committee (Saginaw), Women Healing Eternally and Transforming (WHEAT INC) (Eastpointe)
Youth Impact Award: Association of Chinese Americans Teen Volunteer Council (Madison Heights), Clarkston Community Schools Academic Service Learning (Clarkston), Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (Plymouth), I.M.A.G.I.N.E. Mentoring of Michigan (Warren), Oceana Youth Leadership Lab (Shelby)
Volunteer of the Year: Chia Chanie Morgan (Flint), Patricia Parsons (Fountain), Jason L. Finch (Mason), Doreen and Jon Lawrence (St. Clair Shores)
Outstanding National Service Impact Award: American Legion Devereaux Post 141 (Howell), Albion College AmeriCorps Program (Albion), AmeriCorps Community Training for Overdose Rescue (ACT) program (Detroit), Jane Carol Banks (Benton Harbor), Karlene M. Kuhn (Traverse City)
The Michigan Community Service Commission will host the free event, but registration is required to attend.
Read the winners full biographies below.
Excellence in Philanthropy
A foundation or organization that has demonstrated outstanding civic and charitable responsibility to communities.
Charles Stewart Mott Foundation
For 100 years, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation has worked alongside its hometown of Flint and communities around the world to help make good things happen. C.S. Mott created the Foundation in 1926 with a belief that still guides it today: that every individual exists in partnership with their community.
The idea is simple but powerful. When individuals succeed and give back, their communities flourish. And when communities flourish, they create more opportunities for the people who live and work there. This virtuous cycle has shaped the Mott Foundation’s work across generations and continents.
Over its first century, Mott provided grants for children’s hospitals, schools, afterschool programs, clean water, food banks, arts and cultural institutions, access to justice and so much more. By the outset of 2026, it had granted more than $4.5 billion to support such charitable efforts. That’s $9.1 billion when adjusted for inflation.
And behind those numbers are people: children discovering what they’re capable of in afterschool programs; families gaining access to clean, safe water; communities protecting the Great Lakes; and neighbors helping each other after disasters, both natural and manmade.
During the Flint water crisis, the Foundation granted more than $116 million to help its hometown respond and to support Flint's children, families and community leaders working toward a stronger future.
As the Foundation marked its centennial this year, there were several announcements of grants and special events to support and celebrate with the community. In its largest single centennial commitment, the Foundation announced in May that it would commit up to $100 million to help build a new high school for Flint Community Schools. The Foundation also committed up to $25 million to support trail expansion within Flint and Genesee County and up to $20 million to improve the city's playgrounds and parks. Centennial grants also supported neighborhood-led and youth-led projects and initiatives.
As Mott embarks on its second century, the Foundation has announced a new 10-year strategic plan, an intent to grant up to $2 billion over that time to support charitable efforts, and a continued commitment to promoting a just, equitable and sustainable society.
About 60% of those funds will go toward initiatives in Flint, with an emphasis on strengthening education and reducing childhood poverty.
In the Great Lakes region and nationally, the Foundation will continue working to ensure clean, safe, affordable water for all — from the source to the tap — and supporting efforts that equip young people to reach their full potential in school, work and life.
Globally, Mott plans to continue working to expand access to justice, so more people will have the tools to understand, use and shape the law to improve their lives.
Governor George Romney Lifetime Achievement Award
An individual who demonstrates a lifelong commitment to community involvement and volunteer service. This individual has taken their volunteer service to the highest level and has shown a tremendous passion for helping others. He/she is highly regarded for making a tremendous impact in their community or the state.
Robert Kulisheck
For more than five decades, Dr. Robert Kulisheck has been one of the Marquette region's most influential civic leaders, dedicating his life to strengthening communities through visionary leadership, public service and volunteerism. Whether serving as an educator, elected official, nonprofit leader, or community advocate, Dr. Kulisheck has consistently brought people together to solve complex challenges and build organizations that continue to improve lives decades after their creation. His quiet, collaborative leadership style and unwavering commitment to the public good have left an enduring legacy across Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
A longtime faculty member and department head at Northern Michigan University, Dr. Kulisheck believed that education should inspire civic engagement as much as academic achievement. During his 38-year career, he established the university's Master of Public Administration Program, launched the Washington Center Internship Program, and embedded service-learning, preparing generations of students for careers in public service and nonprofit leadership. As a result, hundreds of graduates now serve in leadership roles throughout the region, extending the impact of his mentorship far beyond the classroom.
Throughout his lifetime, Dr. Kulisheck has helped establish and strengthen organizations that continue to serve the Marquette community. A founding force behind Janzen House, he helped preserve and transform the historic building into an emergency shelter that has since provided more than 500,000 nights of shelter for homeless and potentially homeless members of the community. He played a pivotal role in launching Propylon Nonprofit Housing, which has offered accessible housing for individuals with physical and visual disabilities for nearly five decades. He also served as a founding member of Trillium House, a hospice and respite care facility that delivers compassionate end-of-life care.
Dr. Kulisheck's influence also has extended into civic life. As a former Marquette City Commissioner, Mayor Pro Tem, and Mayor, he helped guide the city's transformation during a critical period of economic change. He has also served on the Marquette County Board of Health, the Marquette Brownfield Authority, and as the founding chair of the Marquette County Climate Adaptation Task Force, which strives to make the Upper Peninsula more resilient and effective in dealing with the consequences of climate change.
Colleagues describe Dr. Kulisheck as a mentor, bridge builder and servant leader because he has spent a lifetime investing in people as much as projects. At 83 years old, he continues to serve alongside his wife, Meredith, on multiple nonprofit boards while supporting numerous charitable organizations. His legacy is reflected not only in the organizations he helped build, but in the generations of leaders, volunteers, and community members he has inspired.
“For more than 50 years, Dr. Robert Kulisheck has been a foundational pillar of the Marquette community, weaving a thread of service through the very fabric of our region,” said NMU Board Trustee Greg Seppanen. “He brings his trademark tireless work ethic to every cause he touches.”
Lifetime Humanitarian Award
An individual or family that has demonstrated a lifetime of outstanding civic and charitable responsibility to communities and organizations. This includes many years of board service, volunteer engagement, and philanthropic efforts.
James J. Blanchard
Throughout his career, James J. Blanchard has used public service to create opportunities that continue long after his time in office. From helping protect thousands of jobs and launching the Michigan Youth Corps to expanding access to higher education, strengthening philanthropy, and encouraging future generations of civic leaders, his legacy reflects a lifelong belief in the power of service.
Blanchard served eight years in the U.S. House of Representatives before becoming Michigan’s 45th governor. In Congress, he helped guide federal loan guarantee legislation that prevented Chrysler Corporation from bankruptcy and protected jobs across Michigan and the nation.
As governor, Blanchard created the Michigan Youth Corps in 1983 at a time when youth unemployment was particularly severe. Modeled in part after the Civilian Conservation Corps, the program employed approximately 25,000 young people in its first summer through community-service work ranging from environmental cleanup and state park maintenance to assisting seniors. He also created the Michigan Education Trust, the nation’s first prepaid college tuition program, and established Michigan’s first Office of the Great Lakes.
Blanchard also recognized that government could strengthen communities by encouraging private giving. In 1988, he signed the Michigan Community Foundation Tax Credit into law, creating the nation’s first tax credit for certain endowed gifts to community foundations. The program helped communities build permanent local resources and later inspired similar efforts in other states.
President Bill Clinton appointed Blanchard U.S. Ambassador to Canada, where he served from 1993 to 1996. His diplomatic service earned him the State Department’s Foreign Affairs Award for Public Service.
His commitment to service continued well beyond elected office. Blanchard has held leadership roles with the National Archives Foundation, Meridian International Center, Canada-United States Law Institute, International Spy Museum, and other civic and diplomatic organizations. He and his wife, Janet, also established scholarships supporting Michigan 4-H students.
A proud Michigan State University alumnus, Blanchard helped establish the Governor Jim Blanchard Public Service Forum to inspire future generations toward careers in public service, diplomacy, and civic leadership.
Across government, philanthropy, education, diplomacy, and volunteer leadership, Blanchard has consistently worked to build institutions and opportunities that empower others to serve, lead and strengthen their communities.
Corporate Social Impact Leader Award
Corporations/Businesses that maximize the collective impact of employee volunteerism and corporate philanthropy to make an impact in Michigan communities. Applicants may be large corporations or small businesses.
Genisys Credit Union
For 90 years, Genisys Credit Union has shown how a financial institution can help strengthen entire communities. Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Genisys serves more than 300,000 members across 32 branches while investing in people, neighborhoods, and partnerships throughout Michigan.
Community service is deeply embedded in the organization’s culture. In 2025, employees contributed more than 7,790 volunteer hours, participated in nearly 1,700 community events, and supported efforts focused on affordable housing, financial literacy, food security, accessibility, and economic opportunity. Through its flagship Day of Caring, nearly 600 employees volunteered with 11 nonprofits across Southeast Michigan, contributing 2,320 service hours and nearly $140,000 in financial support, materials, and volunteer time.
Genisys also builds long-term partnerships aimed at addressing root causes. The credit union committed $600,000 to Lighthouse Michigan’s “Lighting the Way” campaign and secured $3.2 million in affordable housing grants supporting 229 housing units. It has launched financial literacy programming for youth at Oakland County Children’s Village, supported accessible community spaces through Clarkston Family Farm, partnered with Dutton Farm and Detroit Dog Rescue, and helped provide more than 386,000 meals through the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.
That commitment extends beyond corporate giving. Employees participate in annual giving campaigns, fundraising initiatives, and hands-on volunteer projects, making service a shared responsibility across the organization.
By combining financial expertise with philanthropy, volunteerism, and strong community partnerships, Genisys Credit Union continues to create opportunities that help individuals, families, and communities build greater stability and thrive.
Lineage, Inc.
Lineage, Inc. uses the global reach, expertise, and infrastructure of Lineage, one of the world’s largest temperature-controlled logistics companies, to address food insecurity. Operating in 21 countries, the Lineage Foundation works to strengthen the global food system through strategic philanthropy, employee engagement, and nonprofit partnerships, using supply-chain expertise to move surplus food to communities in need.
Rather than treating hunger as a stand-alone issue, the Lineage Foundation integrates community impact into business operations. Through food rescue and redistribution partnerships, it has rescued more than 54 million pounds of food and helped provide 237 million meals to individuals and families facing food insecurity. It has also invested $12 million in grants supporting more than 150 nonprofits while creating donation pathways that connect corporate customers with food banks through free and low-cost cold storage.
Employee engagement is central to this work. Through the Time for Good initiative, more than 10,000 employees contribute approximately 20,000 volunteer hours annually across 485 locations, extending the Foundation’s reach into communities around the world.
Its impact goes beyond food distribution. The Foundation supports community cafés, emergency humanitarian relief, skills-based volunteering, renewable energy initiatives that reduce food waste, and partnerships that strengthen nonprofit capacity.
By combining operational expertise, philanthropy, and employee service, the Lineage Foundation has built a scalable model for addressing both immediate needs and long-term challenges. Its work reduces hunger, minimizes food waste, and helps build stronger, more resilient communities.
Older Adult Volunteer of the Year Award
Individuals 65 or older who are taking action to make their community a better place. These individuals share their many years of experience and are role models for others to serve and volunteer.
Ed Coke
Every Monday morning, Ed Coke sets out on his Meals on Wheels route, delivering not only food but also connection, care, and a familiar face. For the past five years, he has become a steady source of support for local seniors while also helping strengthen the program behind the scenes as a volunteer board member. His impact reaches far beyond the food he delivers. Through his consistency, compassion, and leadership, Ed helps ensure hundreds of seniors feel cared for, connected and remembered each week.
“Ed attends all of our events and serves as a great ambassador, spreading our mission and vision of a community where no senior is hungry or forgotten. His volunteer stories connect deeply to everyone he meets,” Meals on Wheels West Michigan CEO Lisa Wildeman said.
Ed’s service journey started in 1974 when he volunteered for a decade with the Jaycees, Community Tutors and the Kalamazoo County Planning Commission. He then took a bit of a break to focus on his family but still engaged in many mission trips. In 2002, he began to once again dedicate his life to service.
Ed volunteered for Habitat for Humanity in Honduras, building homes in rural areas as part of a 500-home development project. He has served with Faith in Practice since 2008 to help bring medical support to under-served communities in Guatemala. Once a year he spends hundreds of hours planning, recruiting teams and mapping trip logistics to bring medical personnel to perform surgeries. Ed has helped to facilitate more than 1,000 surgeries. Not only does he lead the teams, plan for the trip, but he also raises funds and mentors for the project.
Ed also volunteers with the Corewell Health Culinary Kitchen and Meijer Heart Center, supporting individuals recovering from a variety of heart and lung surgeries. He has volunteered thousands of hours at Thanksgiving and Easter community meals, mentoring at a community farm, supporting arts and literacy education, providing support with elections, volunteering as Santa and serving at a homeless center.
Ed served for more than 50 years and has made a tremendous impact on people across the globe.
Keith and Donna Kolodsick
Keith and Donna Kolodsick have spent the past three decades dedicated to supporting families in need. Whether they are building homes or comforting those experiencing grief, they embody what it means to have a lifelong commitment to bettering their community.
“Their service integrates skilled labor, technical expertise, hospitality, compassion, and storytelling. It has evolved with the changing community, but it has never wavered,” nominator Brooke Adams said.
Keith and Donna have each devoted 30 years of service to Angela Hospice. Donna has served in nearly every volunteer capacity available. After a significant medical incident in 2016 left her wheelchair-bound, Donna adapted her service rather than stepping away. She now focuses on bereavement ministry, clerical support, fundraising assistance, and preparing dishes for Caregiver Suppers. Any seated task she can do, she willingly and joyfully takes on. Keith’s service at Angela Hospice is defined by availability and skill. He has delivered meals and supplies directly to patient homes, assisted with Holiday Meals for Care Center families, and provided extensive IT services and continues to provide photography services. Together, they are considered an extension of the hospice team.
The couple has spent collectively over 20 years volunteering for Habitat for Humanity Detroit and Oakland County. Keith was involved in all aspects of home construction. Donna directly supports volunteers through her hospitality and encouragement. Through Life Remodeled, they have not only volunteered in a traditional capacity such as renovations and construction, but also through expanding the capacity at which the organization can help others. Keith captures professional quality photos to help increase engagement. Donna serves at youth celebrations and encouragement events, always warmly greeting families and creating an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
The throughline of both Keith and Donna’s service is going above and beyond to ensure organizations have the ability to help as many people as possible.
“In a culture where volunteerism is often episodic, Keith and Donna embody lifelong commitment. They do not simply volunteer at events; they build institutions, strengthen organizations, and nurture communities. Their legacy is not just measured in hours served, but in lives stabilized, families comforted, and spaces transformed,” Adams said.
Deb Ralya
For many guests at Community Action House, Deb Ralya is one of the first people who makes them feel truly seen and welcomed. For 14 years, she has brought warmth, consistency, and genuine care to every interaction while helping strengthen the organization’s food and housing programs, while serving nearly 12,000 hours.
Her service began with nine years in the food pantry and has since expanded to the Food Club and Housing Access and Development teams. No matter the role, Deb brings the same personal touch, making sure each person who walks through the door is welcomed with dignity and treated like they matter.
“Her commitment to our work is unmatched as she consistently goes above and beyond what is asked of her. Deb is always the first to notice and step up, whether that means teaching a fellow volunteer, welcoming a guest, or filling an unexpected need. Her kindness, leadership, and dedication have and will continue to make a lasting impact on everyone she serves and works alongside,” Volunteer Coordinator Nicole Andringa said.
Her fight against food insecurity does not end there. She volunteered almost 1,900 hours at Kids’ Food Basket, packaging food and serving on the advisory council. She has also been a member of the Ottawa Food Advisory Committee since 2013, helping eliminate hunger in Ottawa County.
She also supports the Walk to End Alzheimer’s as a Team Captain. She served on Community Action Agency’s Advisory Committee, planning monthly food distribution to pre-qualified seniors at five senior housing complexes and one mass distribution site. At the Center for Women in Transition, she educated teens on prevention, led domestic violence support groups, and was part of the annual Adopt-a-Family Holiday project. For the Women’s Resource Center, Deb facilitated client interviews, led resume coaching, served on the Event Planning committee and was a member of the board.
“Deb is a one-of-a-kind volunteer that cares deeply about our community. She is always finding ways to improve our guest’s experience, even when she hasn’t been asked to. No matter how busy we are, she takes the time to connect with our guests and fellow volunteers in order to build a relationship with them, because she wants to make sure everybody feels welcome here,” Chara Bouma-Prediger, Director of Food Access Programs.
Kim and Doug Wood
Kim and Doug Wood make incredible contributions to the causes they care deeply about, supporting each other in service for nearly 50 years and amplifying each other’s work. “They are tireless advocates for justice and mercy in our community and are always pushing us to do more than we are doing, so that we can serve more people,” Community United Methodist Church Pastor Robert Blanchard said. “They are very much the kind of people who lead from the front and inspire others to keep up with them.”
Kim’s passion for service began early in her life, and it is exemplified by her work advocating for community sustainability, leading conservation projects, and mentoring young leaders. She believes strongly in the empowerment of others, as she frequently states, “You have to learn to say no, so someone else has the opportunity to say yes.” She currently serves as the Community Engagement Facilitator for the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, where she focuses on promoting active communities in the greater Muskegon area. Kim also serves in many organizations that focus on animal care. She is President of the Muskegon Area Beekeepers Association, advocating for pollinator education and conservation. Additionally, she is an active volunteer for both Alliance for Therapy Dogs and Pond Buddies, organizations which support the training and adoptions of dogs.
Similarly, Doug volunteers in several organizations dedicated to social impact. He has served in leadership roles for an impressive list of over 35 area boards and committees. He is the co-chair of the Education Impact Council at United Way of the Lakeshore, where he focuses on education support for underserved populations. He is the Board Vice President at Family Promise of the Lakeshore, which addresses family homelessness. His dedication to others is most evident by the 20 weekly hours he spends with the Muskegon Rotary Club mentoring young people and strengthening community initiatives. He was the driving force behind establishing the organization’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, promoting inclusivity and advocacy for all.
“Kim and Doug’s legacy is one of action, leadership, and unwavering dedication. Their ability to bridge generations, economic backgrounds, and political perspectives makes them true catalysts for change,” United Way of the Lakeshore Community Engagement Coordinator Sara Sherwood said. “Their decades of service have strengthened organizations, empowered young leaders, and improved communities across Michigan.”
Youth Volunteer of the Year
Individuals aged 25 and younger who work hard to make an impact in their community through volunteerism. These individuals create solutions to make lives better and demonstrate the spirit of being change makers.
Abdarrahman Akilurrahman
Abdarrahman Akilurrahman is a volunteer many would hope to have, with his attention to detail and passion for inspiring others as he leads with compassion and care. He displayed a dedication to service his entire high school career.
His community involvement is exemplified through his role in Muslim Community Association of Ann Arbor Youth Committee where he co-hosted weekly teen talks that allowed students to discuss topics they face in contemporary society. Abdarrahman’s service as a vaccine advocate, through MiRcore’s Vaccine Advocacy Program at the University of Michigan, allowed him to learn the science of vaccines and work to uncover common myths. His compassion and positive impact can also be seen through the many hours he served with Trinity Health Ann Arbor Volunteer Services. He became a great asset to their healing environment as a welcome ambassador and Sumer Teen Lead for the Growing Compassion Flower program. He also helped implement new policies and procedures to uplift patients and supported other youth in exploring healthcare careers by helping to create the Teen Mini-Mentor Surgery Program.
“Having Abdarrahman placed in our surgery center this summer has been a wonderful experience. He is a bright, eager young man and presents daily with enthusiasm and passion to serve. It really makes a difference,” Trinity Health Unit Clerk Melissa Holladay-Farsakian said.
Drew O. Coleman
Drew Coleman has turned her passion for service into meaningful action, uplifting others and strengthening her community through compassion, leadership and a genuine commitment to helping others.
Originally starting as a camper at Muskegon Civic Theatre, she soon began sharing her passion for theatre by becoming a mentor. She worked with hundreds of elementary children, providing one-on-one mentorship to performers with special needs. By helping students throughout rehearsals, Drew directly supported inclusive theatre productions and youth performance programs.
Drew continues her role as a mentor by volunteering with Western Michigan Christian Athletics Department, coaching children in youth basketball and volleyball camps, and supporting fundraising initiatives. She supports many community events through her service with the Historically Black College and University Club of Michigan including a holiday store for underserved families, and a gala supporting domestic violence survivors. Additionally, she served on the Youth Advisory Council of the Muskegon Community Foundation, where she reviewed grant proposals to determine funding distribution and ensure that youth voice was a critical component of community programming.
“Drew leads with empathy, honesty, and respect. Whether participating in service projects, mentoring, or facilitating discussions on culture and identity, Drew consistently demonstrates emotional maturity and a deep sense of responsibility,” Tarra Carson said.
Jihyun Ko
After arriving in Michigan from rural South Korea at age 13 without her parents, Jihyun Ko faced significant obstacles, including language barriers, limited transportation and isolation. She quickly saw that many traditional service opportunities were not accessible to students like her. Instead of stepping back, she chose to create service roles where students could create impact in their community.
Jihyun develops youth-led spaces that expand access to opportunity and ensure students most often left out of decision-making can lead. Her service removes barriers for low-income students, immigrant students, LGBTQ+ youth, and students without reliable transportation or family connections. Jihyun supported 58 low-income students in AP Calculus and English. She then created the UPchieve’s Student Ambassador Program and opened a leadership pathway for 17,000 student tutors to make impact. Her efforts drove the growth of 100 chapters nationwide, permanently strengthening the support system for future students.
Jihyun serves as the Co-Chair of the Michigan Educational Justice Coalition Youth Collective and ensures youth priorities are reflected in education policy work. She helped lead youth in the “Invest in MI Kids” campaign that gathered more than 200,000 signatures advocating for equitable school funding. She also planned a student panel at the Lansing Capitol and presented student priorities at the 2026 Michigan State of Education Town Hall to stakeholders across Michigan. As a student who felt unrepresented in the health curriculum, she provided public testimony to the Michigan State Board of Education supporting the first update of inclusive health education standards in 18 years.
In Ypsilanti, Jihyun created the district’s first youth-led literary zine, establishing an ongoing platform for youth storytelling and publication. She also secured Indigenous books and created an Ojibwe Resource Guide, which she shared with Ann Arbor Public Schools to support greater visibility of Indigenous language learning resources.
What is unique about Jihyun’s service is that it consistently turns youth participation to be permanent. Her impact is seen not only by programs started, but by the challenges removed for other students to lead.
Sumith Madasu
Sumith Madasu’s service is defined by both its extraordinary reach and its lasting impact. Through thousands of volunteer hours, he has strengthened communities from leading volunteers and launching new initiatives to supporting families and creating opportunities for others.
Since 2022, he contributed approximately 1,400 volunteer hours at Sri Shirdi Saibaba Temple in Livonia, where he had a vital leadership role in welcoming more than 8,000 attendees to events. He was involved with a team of 50 volunteers during a flagship gala that raised more than $2 million for temple construction and helped organize another fundraising effort that generated $1.8 million. Beyond the temple, Sumith serves as a Board Member of MPower All, where he leads youth empowerment initiatives, digital literacy workshops for seniors, and community health fairs. Through hands-on technology training and webinars, he has helped hundreds of older adults gain confidence using digital tools, improving their independence and reducing social isolation. An entrepreneur and changemaker, Sumith is the Founder and President of Speech Showdown, a youth-led nonprofit that combines public speaking competitions with fundraising to support local nonprofits and small businesses. He also mentors students through Speaking Masters LLC to help them develop confidence, communication skills, and leadership abilities that will serve them throughout their lives.
Sumith's commitment to service extends beyond borders. During a six-month leadership project in India, he partnered with local leaders to restore 24 acres of unused farmland, raised funding for agricultural equipment and inspired 20 families to return to farming as a sustainable livelihood.
Through humility, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others, Sumith exemplifies the very best of youth leadership.
Shayan Siddiqui
Shayan Siddiqui has worked hard to bring attention to underserved populations in southeast Michigan, ensuring children have access to medical care and long-term treatment.
In 2021, Shayan co-founded the nonprofit, MiCaring Heart and successfully raised over $100,000 in support of children’s health needs while launching two initiatives. The first, Cabs for Kids, enhances healthcare access for patients battling sickle cell disease by providing free transportation to appointments.
“The lack of transportation is one of the biggest barriers regarding appointment compliance. The ability to provide patients and their families with transportation to and from clinic appointments will help patients tremendously and improve overall care,” Licensed Clinical Social Worker LaShawnda Greenwood said.
Outsmart, the second initiative, offers free, individualized online tutoring and academic support to children missing school because of medical treatment for cancer, transplants, and lifelong illnesses. The program also supports the schoolteacher program at Children’s Hospital of Michigan, allowing students to better maintain progress across curriculum while in-and-out of the hospital.
Shayan has made a valuable impact in his community by creating solutions and ensuring children receive treatment. He has inspired many with his passion for helping others and creating community change.
Community Impact Award
Organization that successfully makes an impact in a Michigan community through volunteerism.
Michigan Irish Music Festival
Now entering its 28th year, the Michigan Irish Music Festival (MIMF) has become one of the most popular Irish music festivals in the world. Driven by a mission to produce a world-class festival and make Muskegon a destination through entertainment, tourism, and education, MIMF is a lively celebration of Irish culture and heritage. In honor of Ireland’s Gorta Mor, or Great Famine, the organization strives to mitigate food insecurity in Muskegon County. Proceeds from the festival are donated to fund local food pantries and food access programs. Since tracking began in 2008, MIMF has donated nearly half a million dollars and over 25,500 pounds of food to local charities. The Michigan Irish Music Festival has no paid staff, relying on over 1,400 volunteers each year. These loyal, hard-working volunteers, including a board and leadership team of more than 100 who plan year-round, contribute more than 18,000 service hours annually,
“The Michigan Irish Music Festival is one of the finest festivals in the country. For nearly three decades, it has grown and flourished through the dedication of volunteers and the deep commitment of Muskegon’s Irish community,” said Kids’ Food Basket President and Founding CEO Bridget Clark Whitney. “What makes this festival truly remarkable is that it is entirely volunteer-run—yet it continues to get better every year while generously supporting community organizations that fight food insecurity and strengthen the health and well-being of Muskegon and West Michigan. It is a powerful example of what sustained community service can accomplish.”
The Michigan Irish Music Festival has grown into a sprawling six-stage, multi-day event, hosting numerous international artists, cultural classes, and experiences. The combination of entertainment, volunteerism, and philanthropy has created perfect harmony for the Muskegon community.
Women Healing Eternally and Transforming (WHEAT INC)
For over two decades, Women Healing Eternally and Transforming (WHEAT INC) has transformed experiences into pathways to safety and opportunity. Founder and Executive Director Melvenna Fant-Jones began this work in 2004 after experiencing abuse and the challenges of accessing support herself. What began with Back to School Rallies led to WHEAT’s founding in 2008 and grew into a nonprofit serving multiple counties.
WHEAT has served over 10,000 survivors and helped over 650 families secure safe, stable housing. Through WHEAT’s work, Melvenna has mentored over 7,000 women and helped nearly 2,000 women achieve significant milestones. WHEAT’s reach extends across generations, with over 350 families supported through its Phoenix Project over than 900 students supported through holiday initiatives.
WHEAT serves survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking and families experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Its services connect housing assistance, advocacy, counseling, workforce development, youth programming, and essential resources, helping families address needs while building lasting stability. Today, WHEAT serves 75 to 100 families each month.
Its influence reaches the organizations and systems survivors encounter. Through community partnerships, survivor-led training, and professional education, WHEAT helps professionals understand how their actions affect survivors, reinforcing its message that every interaction with a survivor matters.
“WHEAT has a great commitment to producing lasting change and fostering positive transformation in the community,” nominator and volunteer Donna Norman said.
From its beginnings to helping families secure housing and women pursue education and careers, WHEAT has built a legacy of service rooted in dignity, practical support, and the belief that survivors deserve the opportunity to shape their own futures.
Saginaw County Community Action Committee
The Saginaw County Community Action Committee (CAC) began as part of the President Lyndon Johnson’s war on poverty and has supported the community fervently for 61 years. The CAC’s mission is to provide programs and services to low-income individuals or families to help them achieve economic security. It functions as a trusted community hub where people know they will receive help.
As one resident said, “I needed support with rent payments, home repairs, utility payments, and computer training and CAC was there to help.”
The agency supports over 11,000 residents every year through their food programs, home repair projects, financial literacy, senior citizen outreach, and more. They also partner with the Saginaw County Department of Health to promote healthy living initiatives including mental health, fitness, and wellness programs.
A core foundation of CAC’s strength comes from its 450 volunteers who provide over 4,000 hours of service in direct partnership with Unity in the Community Neighborhood Association.
Michigan Library Association
The Michigan Library Association (MLA) supports the advancement of Michigan libraries through advocacy, education and engagement. It operates in partnership and collaboration with all different types of libraries - public, school, academic, tribal and cooperatives.
The MLA is an indispensable resource and valued leader, partner and advocate for Michigan libraries. It broadens the understanding that libraries are central to the intellectual and creative lives of people. The MLA shares a deep commitment to the enduring value and role of libraries in communities and supports equal and free access to information and knowledge.
Library Network Director Steve Bowers said, “Libraries are the heart of their communities as ambassadors promoting literature, culture, and the arts. The Michigan Library Association and its volunteer groups work to ensure the continued existence and promotion of public libraries in Michigan through their advocacy and support.”
The MLA is to be commended for its tireless work to support the continuation of libraries throughout Michigan.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, Alpha Rho Omega Chapter
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, Alpha Rho Omega Chapter, an international service organization, was founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C. in 1908. It is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women.
In 1922, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Alpha Rho Omega Chapter became a pioneering force for service in Michigan. As the first AKA chapter established in the state, it has spent more than a century serving Detroit and carrying forward its founding principle: “Service to All Mankind.” The chapter works in partnership to amplify resources and ensure that programs are culturally responsive and deeply rooted in community priorities.
Its service is broad and includes feeding children, supporting new mothers, promoting mental health, enhancing economic opportunity and increasing civic participation. The members’ volunteer efforts help meet immediate needs while also strengthening families, supporting local organizations, expanding opportunities for young people and investing in the long-term well-being of Detroit communities.
For more than 100 years, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Alpha Rho Omega Chapter has impressively demonstrated what sustained community service can accomplish.
Youth Impact Award
Individuals or organizations that support youth development. Candidates offer guidance, support, and encouragement to cultivate the positive and healthy development of an individual or group of youth in making a difference in their communities, state, and nation.
Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars
For over 35 years, Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS) has empowered students across Michigan in achieving postsecondary success. What began in 1990 as an effort serving a single high school has grown into an organization providing scholarships, comprehensive college access, and success programming to students across five counties and 16 partner high schools.
Through its Next Level Scholars™ Program, DRDFS provides individualized support beginning in 10th grade and continuing through college and the workforce. From college visits and academic preparation to financial aid guidance, one-on-one coaching, leadership development, and career readiness, DRDFS ensures students have the resources they need to succeed.
Today, DRDFS serves more than 1,500 students annually and has awarded more than $4 million in scholarships since 1995. In 2025 alone, the organization raised more than $800,000 to support scholarships and college success programming, while providing over $25,000 in emergency assistance to help scholars overcome unexpected financial barriers.
DRDFS scholars graduate from college at more than twice the national rate. These outcomes are especially meaningful for the many scholars who are the first in their families to pursue higher education, demonstrating what is possible when students have support throughout their journey.
At the heart of this work is a community of volunteers who believe in the potential of students. Through their generosity, DRDFS creates meaningful opportunities for scholars to explore their futures. Many alumni return as mentors, continuing a powerful cycle of service and opportunity for the next generation.
By bringing communities together around a commitment to student success, Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars is empowering students to achieve their goals and build a foundation for lifelong success.
Clarkston Community Schools' Academic Service Learning Program
For more than 20 years, Clarkston Community Schools’ Academic Service Learning (ASL) Program has connected classroom learning with meaningful community service. Established in 2002, the program helps students apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges while building leadership, empathy, civic responsibility, and a lasting commitment to service.
Teachers design curriculum-based projects aligned with state standards and partner with nonprofits, community organizations, government agencies, and businesses to address community needs. Each year, stakeholders identify a district-wide focus while educators develop projects that reflect student interests. These partnerships now include more than 60 organizations working in areas such as environmental stewardship, healthcare, food security, disability advocacy, senior services, animal welfare, and international humanitarian efforts.
During the 2025–26 school year, more than 6,000 of the district’s 7,000 students—over 85% of the student body—engaged in 71 service-learning initiatives. Key highlights included seven full-school community service projects, seven initiatives tied to the national America250 celebration, and dozens of classroom-led programs. Student efforts ranged from elementary classes hosting American Red Cross blood drives and building relationships with local seniors to older students conducting environmental research and supporting Meals on Wheels.
Today, Clarkston Community Schools’ ASL Program demonstrates how education can strengthen communities while preparing students for life beyond graduation. By making service part of everyday learning, the program has created a culture where academic growth, compassion, and civic engagement reinforce one another.
I.M.A.G.I.N.E. Mentoring of Michigan
Founded in 2010, I.M.A.G.I.N.E. began by empowering young women who have experienced trauma to recognize their potential, build self-esteem, and pursue their dreams. Today, that mission has expanded to serve boys and girls, inspiring all youth to recognize their worth and build brighter futures. Its vision extends beyond Michigan, aspiring to become a global initiative that provides impactful mentoring, education, and empowerment for young women seeking positive change.
Serving Wayne, Macomb, and Monroe counties, I.M.A.G.I.N.E. empowers young people through programs focused on personal growth, academic success, career readiness, entrepreneurship, wellness, and community engagement. Youth have opportunities to write and publish books, build business skills, explore careers alongside industry professionals, strengthen their well-being, and recognize their own value and potential.
Since its inception, I.M.A.G.I.N.E. has impacted more than 75,000 youth throughout Metro Detroit. Volunteers and facilitators receive training, curriculum, and ongoing support to ensure meaningful mentorship experiences, while community partnerships with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and public agencies expand opportunities for participants. Beyond mentoring, the organization prepares young people for life after high school through self-advocacy coaching, job readiness, leadership training, and confidence-building experiences that inspire lasting success.
Today, The I.M.A.G.I.N.E Mentoring Program of Michigan continues to build on its founding mission while expanding its reach to inspire, equip, and empower the next generation. By helping young people recognize their worth, embrace their potential, and develop the confidence and resilience to shape their futures, I.M.A.G.I.N.E. remains committed to transforming lives, strengthening families, and building healthier, more empowered communities across Michigan and beyond.
Association of Chinese Americans Teen Volunteer Council
The Association of Chinese Americans Teen Volunteer Council (TVC) was founded in 2019 with the goal of empowering youth through community service. By focusing on supporting disadvantaged communities, promoting Asian American heritage, and leadership development, the organization works to inspire positive change.
Throughout the seven years since its founding, TVC went from a small group of just seven volunteers to a group of 110 youth representing 36 middle and high schools in Southeast Michigan. As a result, the council offers teens the opportunity to have a tangible impact on the lives of others.
Collectively, TVC members contributed 4,571 volunteer hours between 2022 and 2025, subsequently benefiting thousands of Michiganders in the process. The organization also raises funds through food sales, organized fundraising events, and grant applications. The funds helped community members by providing donations to individuals with special needs and seniors, funding scholarships for members to attend leadership training, and supporting Asian American heritage awareness initiatives.
Ultimately, the council fosters a culture of service and responsibility for youth, demonstrating to them the impact volunteering can have within their own communities. The council’s impact is also reflected beyond numbers; in the leadership and service skills left with teens throughout the state. TVC ensures that future generations understand what it takes to create positive change. By offering hands-on experiences and leadership opportunities, the council creates future leaders of tomorrow.
Now a pivotal part of their community, TVC provides essential support to various groups and are crucial to the success of Asian heritage events. The council’s youth have had an invaluable impact throughout the state, and they will have a better understanding of what civic-minded leaders can accomplish.
Oceana Youth Leadership Lab
The Oceana Youth Leadership Lab is a volunteer-led organization founded in September 2023 that empowers young people to become leaders by identifying community needs and creating meaningful solutions through service. Comprised of youth ages 15 – 17 from Oceana County and advised by leaders from the American Youth Foundation’s Camp Miniwanca, the Leadership Lab demonstrates that age is never a barrier to making a lasting difference.
Built on the belief that leadership is developed through action, the organization provides young people with opportunities to strengthen their communities while building confidence, collaboration, and civic responsibility. It was inspired by students who attended a national leadership conference and returned home determined to put what they had learned into practice. Rather than waiting for opportunities, they organized themselves to address local challenges and create projects that improve the well-being of residents across Oceana and neighboring Mason County. Their work reflects a commitment to kindness, service, and youth-led innovation, proving that young people can be catalysts for positive community change.
Still a young organization, the Oceana Youth Leadership Lab has quickly become a model for youth engagement and community leadership. By recruiting new members, fostering collaboration, and encouraging every participant to recognize the value of their voice, the organization is cultivating a new generation of civic leaders. Their work reminds communities that meaningful change can begin with a single idea and that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the changemakers of today.
Volunteer of the Year Award
Individuals over the age of 25 who strive to improve the lives of people in their community or state. These individuals make impact through volunteering in various capacities with nonprofits and organizations, showing a commitment to strengthening communities.
Patricia Parsons
Patricia Parsons has spent years turning determination into lasting community impact. Known for the care, persistence, and attention she brings to every project, Patricia has helped strengthen programs, secure resources, and create opportunities that reach people across generations. Even through personal loss, she has continued to be a steady source of compassion, encouragement, and leadership for those around her.
“She has contributed to every age spectrum in our county and expanded counties with at least one of the projects or programs she has been involved with,” nominator Andrew Riley said.
From 2019, much of Patricia’s service has been devoted to West Central Michigan Horticultural Research, Inc., a nonprofit that partners with Michigan State University to advance agricultural research. Over thousands of volunteer hours, her work has also helped make educational programs possible, including middle school agricultural camps and grade school field days that introduce young people to agriculture and its importance in their communities.
Her impact extends far beyond one organization. Patricia has helped raise funds for schools, supported blood drives, and contributed to community initiatives designed to meet emerging needs. She worked alongside the Shelby Township Supervisor (Richard Raffaelli) and community visionaries such as Earl and Linda Peterson to help move forward Shelby Township Park and Tiger Athletic Community Center. Since 2023, she has volunteered with Oceana County Development Corps and multiple organizations in the area, supporting the nonprofit’s efforts to furnish new affordable housing developments throughout the county. Her involvement reflects the same approach that has defined her service for years: identify a need, bring people together, and stay committed until progress is made.
“Patricia is truly a walking inspiration of unconditional love and care for others,” Riley said.
The reach of Patricia’s work can be seen throughout her community, built through years of showing up, following through, and giving others the encouragement and resources they need to succeed.
Chia Chanie Morgan
Chia Chanie Morgan approaches service with a simple belief: no one should fall through the gaps. For years, she has used her experience as a social worker, notary, and community advocate to remove the barriers that keep Flint residents from accessing food, mental health care, public resources, and other essential support.
Since 2009, Chia has contributed more than 2,000 volunteer hours each year to Well of Hope, the nonprofit she leads to combat poverty, prevent violence, and strengthen community resilience. She has helped establish four outdoor food pantries in neighborhoods affected by food deserts, bringing resources directly to communities with limited access. Her service centers on identifying everyday barriers and creating practical solutions. Through Well of Hope, she has supported school-based projects such as donating a washer and dryer so students can reliably access clean clothing. The organization also provides Thanksgiving meals, voter education, and clothing and sock drives. Across every initiative, Chia’s approach is consistent: meet people where they are, remove obstacles and provide the support needed to create lasting stability.
Chia’s impact extends well beyond her own organization. She helps shape neighborhood investment through the Neighborhood Small Grants Committee at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and also volunteers with NASW-Michigan, Voices for Children, the City of Flint Local Officers Compensation Commission, and Community Access and Legal Support Services.
Her commitment to closing gaps is especially clear in her mental health work. Chia provides ongoing pro bono therapy and offers free pop-up therapy sessions that allow community members to access care without the financial or logistical barriers that often prevent people from seeking help.
What makes Chia’s service so impactful is its range. She does not wait for perfect conditions before taking action. She sees where people are being left behind and works to make sure the gap closes.
Doreen and Jon Lawrence
For Doreen and Jon Lawrence, service has become a way of life. Year after year, they have answered the needs of their community with humility, compassion and an unwavering willingness to help.
They dedicate their time and talents to organizations throughout metro Detroit, supporting both the everyday needs of residents and efforts that strengthen the community for the future. Their work has strengthened organizations, supported vulnerable residents, and expanded educational opportunities. They have served with many different organizations including Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Detroit Institute of Arts, St. Clair Shores Library, Polish American Historic Site Association, MSU Extension and Trinity Health and the Macomb County Senior Services.
For more than a decade, they served Meals on Wheels, contributing hundreds of hours delivering meals to older adults. Doreen and Jon also volunteer with Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan, sorting and preparing food for older adults who may face barriers to accessing traditional food pantries. Across every role they take on, their service is grounded in the same belief: when a need exists, they are willing to step forward and help meet it. The couple strongly supports the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP of metro Detroit and last year became founding members of the Volunteer Leadership Council.
“Doreen and Jon have demonstrated exceptional vision, dedication, and leadership on this council to work to strengthen volunteer services across metro Detroit,” Program Director for Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan Trista Johnson said.
After seeing a need for greater access to STEM education, they became key contributors to the development and facilitation of classroom-style programming at the Selfridge Military Air Museum. Their efforts helped transform the museum’s resources into an engaging educational environment.
Together, Doreen and Jon Lawrence exemplify the lasting impact that comes from a lifetime of service.
Jason L. Finch
Jason L. Finch’s commitment to service is rooted in a family tradition he takes seriously. As a pipefitter, he carries forward a legacy of hard work, integrity, and pride in the skilled trades, bringing those same values to the way he serves others. Jason is often the first to step forward when help is needed, not for recognition, but because showing up for others is simply part of who he is.
His impact is seen throughout the skilled trades. Through the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee, Jason helped train hundreds of apprentices across 10 years of involvement. His role involves guiding curriculum development and advising on best practices to help prepare them for stable, high-paying careers.
Believing strong unions help build strong communities, Jason also works to expand opportunity and representation. Since 2021, he has supported women in the trades through the Sisters & Allies Group, helping develop a structured system to address workplace barriers and strengthen women’s place in the skilled trades.
His technical expertise also strengthens his broader service. Jason has volunteered hundreds of hours with the Newaygo County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, helping revitalize underused and environmentally contaminated properties while supporting safe mechanical standards and systems.
As a Trustee for Local 174’s Health & Welfare Fund, Jason helps union families access healthcare, pensions, and financial security. He also serves on the board of Michigan Works! West Central, where he helps shape workforce initiatives that support Michigan’s economic future.
His service extends beyond the workforce. Jason raised more than $5,000 for children’s literacy through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, helping ensure children in Newaygo County receive books each month.
“Jason Finch is a servant leader in every sense of the word,” nominator Dominique Bunker said. “He is the person who never says no, never walks away, and never stops believing in the power of labor, mentorship, and community engagement.”
Outstanding National Service Impact Award
Individual that has served with AmeriCorps or is a veteran - or individual or organization that that successfully supports AmeriCorps members or veterans through service and makes an impact in communities.
Karlene M. Kuhn
In her role as AmeriCorps VISTA Hub program manager at the Public Health Institute Center for Health Leadership & Impact, Karlene Kuhn oversees program operations for one of the nation's largest AmeriCorps VISTA intermediary programs, recruiting members across the country to serve their respective communities. But Karlene’s work reaches far beyond AmeriCorps, and shows her broad passion for mental health, inclusivity and service.
She has long volunteered with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and has served on the Traverse City Out of the Darkness Walk Committee, which supports prevention awareness and fundraising efforts. As a member of the Benzie Area Pride Network advisory committee, she has supported initiatives that have increased LBGTQ+ visibility and have created welcoming environments for everyone; and at Traverse City’s Botanic Garden at Historic Park, she has fostered new opportunities for AmeriCorps service projects throughout the region, directly supporting the expansion of volunteer opportunities in Northern Michigan.
Her life in service began with AmeriCorps VISTA, AmeriCorps State and National and the Peace Corps. These roles shaped her initial experiences in volunteerism and inspired her to create a legacy that highlights community betterment. Currently, Karlene also serves on the board for the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Northern Michigan, where she creates service opportunities for other members.
Nominator Jordan Hoy says: “Karlene’s work exemplifies the multiplier effect of national service: not only serving herself, but building the systems, programs, and cultures that enable hundreds of others to make a difference in their communities. Through her own service, sustained volunteer leadership, and a professional career devoted to expanding opportunities for others, she has created lasting change for individuals, organizations, and communities. Her impact is measurable, inclusive, and enduring–and her example continues to inspire others to serve, lead, and give back.”
Jane Carol Banks
Since joining the Foster Grandparent Program in 2017, Jane Banks has enriched the lives of students in Berrien County, becoming a trusted mentor, role model and source of unwavering encouragement.
Born and raised in Benton Harbor, Jane grew up in a large family where resilience, hard work, and caring for others were everyday values. After retirement knew she still had more to give. Encouraged by another Foster Grandparent volunteer, she joined the program with a desire to continue serving her community, a decision that has transformed the lives of hundreds of children.
After serving at International Academy at Hull and Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary, Jane now volunteers at River of Life Christian School in Benton Harbor, where she serves 40 hours each week. Affectionately known as "Grandma Janie," she has an extraordinary ability to connect with children who need extra patience, reassurance, or encouragement. Whether helping a struggling reader sound out new words, comforting a child during a difficult moment, or celebrating small victories, Jane creates an environment where every child feels seen, valued and loved.
Teachers describe Jane as both nurturing and dependable, noting that her presence is deeply missed whenever she is absent. Families consistently express gratitude for the stability and kindness she provides, and students eagerly greet her each day, knowing they have someone who believes in them unconditionally. Beyond the classroom, Jane volunteers at community events including the Annual Senior Expo and Older Michiganians Day and makes follow-up service calls for her agency.
Through her kindness, wisdom, and steadfast commitment, Jane inspires children, strengthens families, and demonstrates the profound difference one caring adult can make in the life of a child.
American Legion Devereaux Post 141
For generations, Howell’s American Legion Devereaux Post 141 has been a cornerstone of service, dedicated to honoring veterans, supporting military families, and strengthening the community through volunteerism, education and civic engagement.
Each year, hundreds of volunteers contribute thousands of hours to initiatives that preserve military traditions while meeting critical community needs. The Post organizes Howell's annual Memorial Day Parade, conducts Flag Day and patriotic ceremonies, maintains veterans' gravesites, and provides military honors that ensure the sacrifices of service members are remembered. It also offers direct assistance to veterans through benefit guidance, financial support, holiday assistance and care packages for deployed troops, helping military families navigate challenges with dignity and compassion.
Beyond its work with veterans, the Post serves as a vibrant community hub. It hosts affordable weekly community meals, supports Meals on Wheels, recognizes first responders and educators, and sponsors youth leadership opportunities such as Boys State, the Oratorical Contest, and Scouting programs. Educational initiatives, including performances encouraging historical understanding and civic responsibility, while veteran suicide awareness campaigns promote mental health and foster meaningful conversations throughout the community.
When disaster strikes, the Post responds without hesitation. Following devastating hurricanes in North Carolina, members mobilized the community to deliver 21 truckloads of relief supplies and more than $16,000 in financial assistance, demonstrating that their commitment to service extends well beyond Michigan's borders.
American Legion Devereaux Post 141 has become a place where neighbors become family, service inspires service, and compassion creates lasting impact. Through unwavering dedication to veterans, youth, and the broader community, the Post exemplifies the values of leadership, patriotism, volunteerism and selfless service that strengthen communities for generations to come.
AmeriCorps Community Training for Overdose Rescue (ACT) program
The AmeriCorps Community Training for Overdose Rescue (ACT) Program, based in Wayne State University’s Center for Urban Studies, works to prevent overdose deaths, reduce harms associated with heroin and other opioids, and strengthen community engagement around public health.
Launched in October 2019, ACT recruits AmeriCorps members from the community to serve as Overdose Rescue Trainers. Members teach residents across Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties how to respond during an overdose emergency, provide education about opioid use disorder and harm reduction, and distribute overdose rescue kits containing Narcan, the nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses.
The program is grounded in data showing the significant impact of the opioid crisis across the region. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Wayne County’s suspected overdose death rate reached 35 per 100,000 people, exceeding the national rate, with an estimated 871 provisional drug overdose deaths in 2022. Wayne County accounts for half of Michigan’s overdose deaths, while Oakland and Macomb counties face similar challenges.
AmeriCorps members are central to ACT’s response. Each year, they train more than 800 people from all walks of life as Community First Responders, preparing them to provide lifesaving assistance before medical professionals arrive. Participants receive Narcan kits to use during overdose emergencies.
Members also install Narcan distribution boxes in community locations throughout the tri-county area, increasing access to this lifesaving medication when it is needed most. Together, these efforts expand community knowledge of opioid risks and overdose first aid, increase access to naloxone, and strengthen the ability of residents to respond quickly—helping reduce preventable overdose deaths.
Albion College AmeriCorps Program
The Albion College AmeriCorps Program is a leadership and community engagement initiative designed to foster a culture of volunteerism among Albion College students. Its primary goal is to provide students with pathways for impactful service within the local community.
The program strives to serve alongside their partners in the community to conduct mutually beneficial work, supporting local priorities while helping students grow as leaders who understand the realities and challenges facing the people around them. Through this service, students develop a deeper sense of leadership and social consciousness. It is a goal of the program to nurture a lifelong commitment to service and active citizenship, fostering a generation of leaders dedicated to creating a more equitable and sustainable future.
Albion College’s AmeriCorps Program enables students to serve their campus and communities while gaining the benefits of national service. AmeriCorps members help organizations across Calhoun County expand their reach, improve efficiency and strengthen infrastructure. Its 75 members address needs in youth development, sustainability and the environment, food security, health and wellness, and economic opportunity and development. Members are matched with community partners based on their interests and skills and receive training.
Each year, the Albion College AmeriCorps Program partners with up to 15 local organizations to address community needs through capacity-building support and direct service. They also operate two signature programs: Tech Savvy Seniors and Albion BrainCorps. Tech Savvy Seniors connects older adults with one-on-one technology tutoring and group workshops to build confidence using their devices, access telehealth, and stay connected online. Albion BrainCorps is a math-focused after-school program for local students in grades 2–5 that uses fun, hands-on instruction to build math skills and confidence.