UNITED WAY HONORS ITS SUPPORTERS WITH AWARDS

The annual meeting of Kishwaukee United Way took place March 13. Board members, community partners and local business representatives gathered to hear the program featuring local community members talk about Kishwaukee United Way’s Give, Advocate and Volunteer efforts during this past year. Executive director Dawn Littlefield reported on activities, events and initiatives.

The final segment of the program was special recognition in two award categories. The first was the eighth annual Spirit of Caring Awards, recognizing human service agency staff and community volunteers for their dedication and service. 2014 nominees were Cliff Golden (Boy Scout Troop 33), Jeannie Johnson (N.I.C.E. Center), Barbara Lynch (Opportunity House), Jerry Maring (Voluntary Action Center), Sheryl Nakonechny (Bard Food Mart), Dan Rey (Big Brothers Big Sisters) and Katie Virani (Big Brothers Big Sisters). The Spirit of Caring Award was presented to Barbara Lynch and Jerry Maring.

The second award category was the prestigious Leo Olson Award, established in 1989, which honors KUW Board Member Leo Olson for his commitment to Kishwaukee United Way and his unflagging spirit of volunteerism. This year’s receipients of the Leo Olson Award were Cindy Kyler and Sonoco Alloyd and Renee Ellingson. Kyler has been an active supporter of Kishwaukee United Way for more than a decade. Not only have she and her company, Sonoco/Alloyd, provided strong support to the organization, but numerous leaders in the corporation have served on committees over the years. Ellingson has served in numerous roles, both formal and informal, for the United Way, including several terms as president. She has made contributions to almost every facet of the organization, including committee work and helping to build partnerships to benefit United Way’s efforts.

For more information about how to get involved with Kishwaukee United Way or how to volunteer in the community, call 815-756-7522 or visit www.kishwaukeeunitedway.com.

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