MEO honors its 2018 Volunteer and Benefactor of the Year

MEO honors its 2018 Volunteer and Benefactor of the Year at its annual volunteer luncheon COMMUNITY NEWS MAR 10, 2019 Mercer “Chubby” Vicens was named the 2018 Volunteer of the Year during the Maui Economic Opportunity annual volunteer luncheon on Feb. 14 at the MEO Family Center.

This event is held every year on Valentine’s Day to honor and thank all of the many volunteers who assist MEO with its mission of “helping people and changing lives.” In 2018, MEO’s 601 volunteers performed more than 4,030 service hours, saving MEO approximately $77,400 in labor costs.

MEO recognized five nominees for 2018 Volunteer of the Year: Eddie Domingo was nominated by early childhood services; Leonardo Sequeira was nominated by community services; Gerry Smith was nominated by the MEO Business Development Center; Clifford Alakai was nominated by the fiscal department; and Vicens was nominated by the administration.

Vicens was recognized for sharing his time and talent for more than 25 years. His leadership qualities and knowledge of business, construction, personnel and finance made him an invaluable part of MEO’s board and board committees, according to an announcement.

Mayor Michael Victorino attended the event and proclaimed Feb. 14, 2019, Mercer “Chubby” Vicens Day for his years of volunteer service to MEO and to Maui County.

MEO also recognized Hawai’i Community Foundation as its 2018 Benefactor of the Year.

MEO has been the recipient of Hawai’i Community Foundation grants dating back to 2006 with total support of more than $280,000. The funds have helped MEO cover funding shortfalls and ensure MEO fulfills its goal of strengthening the community while helping people in need.