Gov. Glenn Youngkin has announced 10 honorees in the 2024 Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Awards, including several Northern Virginia residents.
The annual awards program spotlights the outstanding volunteer efforts of individuals, organizations, and businesses on behalf of Virginians across the commonwealth.
“Through their steadfast commitment to helping others, these honorees represent the very best of our Commonwealth,” Youngkin said in prepared statement. “It is my pleasure to recognize this year’s award recipients for the enormous impact they have made across Virginia and in the lives of their neighbors. Each honoree reminds us that we each have the opportunity to make our communities better through service.”
First lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin added, “These extraordinary honorees embody the spirit of service that defines Virginia. Their dedication and impact inspire us all to strengthen our communities through acts of kindness and commitment.”
The honorees are:
Adult (aged 31-59): Alisa Thornton (Woodbridge)
Senior (aged 60+): Mary Lee Di Spirito (Annandale)
Small Business: Notes n’ Beats Music School (Brambleton)
Community Organization: Youth Education Program of the Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia (Arlington)
Youth Volunteer (aged 18 and under): Ashley Coulson (Woodstock)
Young Adult (aged 19-30): Bezawit Getachew Mulatu (Richmond)
Independent Group: Michelle Smeltzer & Nichole Johns (Front Royal)
Faith-Based Organization: The Chapel (Richmond)
Educational Organization: ODU Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (Norfolk)
Corporation: Newport News Shipbuilding (Newport News)
Recognizing exceptional community service for 30 years, the Governor’s Volunteerism & Community Service Awards are presented by the Office of the Governor, with the assistance of the Governor’s Advisory Board on Service & Volunteerism and Serve Virginia.
“It is a tremendous privilege to share the stories of these volunteers and recognize their efforts and impact,” Chair of the Virginia Governor’s Advisory Board on Service & Volunteerism Joy S. Parker said in the release. “Each honoree showcases the power of service and the potential for what can be accomplished when we work together for the greater good.”
For more information about the honorees and volunteerism in Virginia, go to ServeVirginia.org/news-and-events/2024-governors-awards.
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