2018 Hero Awards by Columbia Daily Tribune

17TH YEAR COLUMBIA DAILY TRIBUNE

Monday, April 30, 2018 4-6 P.M. Kimball Ballroom, Stephens College

CONGRATULATIONS NOMINEES! Alex and Noah Elletson Alison Barker Alison Lenz Anita Ellis Asya Hristova Barbara Mannering Bernadette Johnson Bob Murray Carol Beavers Carol Paten Doris White Gamma Phi Beta Alpha Delta Chapter - MU Gary Moreau

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER, SPENCER STONE In 2015, Former Air Force Staff Sgt. Spencer Stone and his childhood friends, Anthony Sadler and Alek Skarlatos, thwarted a major terrorist attack on a Paris-bound train. An unarmed Stone rushed toward the danger, subduing and disarming a man wielding an assault rifle, pistol, box cutter and enough ammunition to kill everyone on board. Stone and his friends saved hundreds of lives that day. Despite serious injuries as a result of the encounter, Stone provided life-saving care to a man who received a gunshot wound to his throat during the attack. For his heroic and selfless actions, French President Francois Hollande presented Stone with the nation’s highest decoration, The Legion of Honor. Upon his return to the United States, he was honored in a ceremony at the Pentagon and was awarded the Airman’s Medal and a Purple Heart. President Barack Obama also hosted the trio at the White House. Stone, Sadler and Skarlatos released a book detailing their incredible journey, The 15:17 to Paris, which caught the eye of legendary filmmaker Clint Eastwood and was made into a major motion picture under the same name.

George Kennedy Jackie Pittman Jessica Jobe Julie Schultz Kaster Family/Hope Chest Lois Long Lois McDermit Melanie Stock Nikki McGruder - Matters of Social Justice Quinn Cunningham Roma Wonneman Sai Gajagowni Socket Sue Ryan Sue Stephens Woodlandville United Methodist Church

LANDMARK BANK congratulates the 2018 Community Hero nominees & thanks

Columbia’s community volunteers

2018 INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER NOMINEES BARBARA MANNERING

Nominated for her work with Moniteau Christian Ministries Center’s Cargill Cares Food Pantry Barbara began volunteering at a mobile food pantry after retiring in 2001 and has spent the past 16 years helping feed the hungry in Moniteau County. She puts in 124 hours a month stocking shelves, scheduling volunteers, assembling food for the homebound and keeping track of data and paperwork. She played an essential role in the formation of the Moniteau Christian Ministries Center in 2010 and the food pantry – according to her nominator, Barb’s motto is, “If you think you can do it, put your heart into it!” “Barb’s fondest memories are when clients become volunteers who want to ‘pay it forward,’” her nominator wrote. “Barb will also challenge you to try volunteering, because she knows from experience that you’ll get far more from it than you can possibly give.”

SUE RYAN

Nominated for her work with MU Women’s and Children’s Hospital Sue has been a volunteer in the hospital’s Child Life pediatric playroom for three years. Her nominator wrote that she is quick to jump in and help however needed – everything from cleaning toys to checking on patients. She comforts and plays with patients and keeps them entertained so their parents are able to take much-needed breaks. “The hospital can be a very scary and intimidating place for both patients and parents. Sue is a

smiling face that helps combat these struggles,” her nominator wrote. “Parents trust her to watch their most precious children when they are in their most vulnerable state. I wish I had more words to say just how valued and appreciated she is. She is irreplaceable.”

BOB MURRAY

Nominated for his work with CLAIM – MO SHIP Bob has served as a CLAIM certified Medicare SHIP counselor for a decade, often coming in beyond his scheduled six hours per week to help more people. In 2017 he helped Medicare clients with over 400 contacts by phone or in person to answer questions ranging from when and how to sign up for Medicare to prescription drug plan choices. Bob has helped clients statewide save thousands of dollars. According to his nominator, clients often request, “That nice man who explained my options so well.” “We are blessed to have such a wonderful volunteer who works tirelessly to help our clients save money and navigate the complex Medicare system,” his nominator wrote. “Bob’s integrity shines in the CLAIM program, and I am proud to nominate him.”

CAROL PATEN

Nominated for her work with the Love Seat Furniture Bank Carol was one of the first volunteers to sign up with Love INC opened its doors and started the Love Seat Furniture Bank in 2008. In the years since then, she and her husband, Bill, have worked tirelessly to pick up and

deliver items to those in need. In 2009, she was the one who obtained the furniture bank’s first home. Carol has organized parking lot sales to raise money to put gas in the truck and has served as the ‘mom’ of the large group of workers at The Love Seat Resale Store, often logging 40 to 50 hours a week.

Humane Society for two years, cleaning the cat areas, assisting with evaluations of new felines, and talking to potential adopters. Her nominator called her a rock star, noting she has a great attitude, doesn’t mind doing the dirty work, and makes the staff members’ lives “considerably easier.”

“Her ongoing volunteerism has provided continuity for the effort and provided a stable, loving atmosphere for both volunteers and recipients,” her nominator wrote. “Her first love is serving those most in need in our community, and she lives a lifestyle of putting others first.”

“I don’t think we would have been able to get as much done in the summer time – when we are overrun with cats – if we didn’t have her around,” her nominator wrote. “Carol loves what she does. She loves getting to know the cats and finding them perfect homes.”

JULIE SCHULTZ

ALISON LENZ

Nominated for her work with Central Missouri Humane Society

Julie has volunteered 25 hours a month over the past year, helping in all areas of the shelter. She oversees the Small Animal Foster Program – which includes scheduling meet and greets and staying in contact with foster parents – runs CMCA’s booth at Itchy’s Flea Market, and often stops by the shelter after work to help with whatever needs done. Her nominator said Julie makes life better for both the staff and the animals at the shelter.

After five years as a volunteer, Alison’s nominator said she is basically a staff member. She helps with data entry, assists the foster and rescue coordinator with scheduling and contacts, and does whatever else may be needed. Through her efforts, she helps dozens of animals get rescued and fostered each year. “Alison is dedicated and smart,” her nominator wrote. “She spends a ton of time working on our foster and rescue program. She brings a positive attitude every day that she is here, and she is truly a joy to work with.”

“I’ve never met such a hardworking, dedicated person,” her nominator wrote. “Julie truly cares about every living thing, and she is always coming up with new ideas on how she can help those who can’t help themselves.”

CAROL BEAVERS

Nominated for her work with the Central Missouri Humane Society Carol has worked with the

JESSICA JOBE

Nominated for her work with Southwest Early Head Start According to her nominator, Jessica betters the lives of children every day with her work at Southwest Early Head Start, where she has been a

2018 INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER NOMINEES volunteer for five years. She helps teen parents problem solve so they can become successful as individuals, as well as providing them with the skills they need to be actively engaged parents. Her nominator described her impact as enormous, noting she has helped parents facing unexpected barriers to graduate and flourish. “Her participation is an essential element of our program,” her nominator wrote. “Jessica is supportive, even when situations are not ideal. She is always encouraging.”

DORIS WHITE

Fund Community Outreach program, Lois has touched many lives by informing the community about the Alzheimer’s Association’s respite fund to help caregivers. She makes monthly phone calls to stay in touch with hundreds of families who might need guidance. “Lois is a selfless volunteer who deserves the world,” her nominator wrote. “She believes one day we can live in a world without Alzheimer’s, and for that, she deserves the Hero Award.”

MELANIE STOCK

Nominated for her work with Central Missouri Community Action

Nominated for her work with the Mary Lee Johnston Community Learning Center

In the year she has been volunteering with CMCA, Doris has helped with virtually every program, serving around 75 hours a month. She does filing, helps process LIHEAP applications, assists with the ShowMe Healthy Relationships program, and covers the front desks at the administrative and Boone County Family Resource offices. She also helped create the organization’s online resource guide, which has had more than 15,000 page hits since December 2017.

“Miss Mel” has volunteered at the learning center for more than nine years, serving as a classroom aide, an office assistant, and eating lunch with the children. She enjoys playing with the children – especially tag on the playground. She really gets to know the children and takes an interest in their lives. She makes Christmas ornaments for each staff member and gives treats to all the children on Valentine’s Day and is the biggest cheerleader for MLJCLC.

“Doris has also had health issues, and even when getting here was very difficult for her, she still showed up,” her nominator wrote. “No matter what we throw at her, she always has a smile on her face.”

“The Mary Lee Johnston Community Learning Center is a better place because of her. She adds the sparkle and spunk that we need on a daily basis,” her nominator wrote. “Her impact on our children has been great. She lives each day as if it is a gift. Nothing slows her down, and she shows others that anyone can accomplish many and great things.”

LOIS LONG

Nominated for her work with the Alzheimer’s Association Greater MO Chapter A volunteer with the Respite

ANITA ELLIS

Nominated for her work with Heart of Missouri Girls on the Run Anita has been involved with Heart of Missouri Girls on the Run, serving as a coach, the site liaison for Alpha Heart Lewis Elementary – where she is a guidance counselor – and as a board member. As a coach she meets with the girls and delivers lessons twice a week and serving as a mentor and motivator for the girls she works with. Over the years, Anita has donated more than 675 hours directly coaching girls in the program. Her nominator wrote that Heart of Missouri Girls on the Run hold’s Anita’s team up as an example of what the organization wants all of its teams to aspire to. One fifth grader during the spring 2017 season said, “Before Girls on the Run, I had 0 percent confidence. Now I have 100,000 percent confidence. I feel like a queen, that’s how much confidence I have!”

ROMA WONNEMAN

Nominated for her work with KidSight Roma became a volunteer vision screening technician for KidSight in the summer of 2015. She has provided nearly 500 free vision screenings for area children at daycare centers, preschools, elementary schools, Parents as Teachers events, the Daniel Boone Library, and other public events. These screenings ensure the early detection of vision disorders that could lead to delays in a child’s learning and/or permanent vision loss.

“Just like all volunteers, Roma makes a difference, she is driven and dedicated. However, what really sets her apart is the fact that she encourages and inspires others to volunteer too,” her nominator wrote. Over the past year, she has also cultivated and mentored another KidSight volunteer technician team, which has been vital in reaching more than 1,000 more Mid-Missouri children.

GARY MOREAU

Nominated for his work with The Container Project As the executive director for Mobility Worldwide MOColumbia’s mobility shop, Gary is at the building most week days – often more than is required for this position – so he 10 years ago, he began volunteering with The Container Project, which is also located in the warehouse. He greets and shows guests of The Container Project around, coordinates collected and boxed mission goods, attends committee meetings, and coordinates shipping of items around the U.S. and the world. All of this, his nominator wrote, is accomplished with a cheerful personality, care for those in need, and skills in arranging shipments. He also coordinates a litter pick up zone and volunteers with Fairview United Methodist Church and with the Room at the Inn homeless overnight winter shelter. “(Gary) deserves a Hero Award for all the volunteering he does across Columbia,” his nominator wrote. He is just doing for others and our community it seems all the time.”

2018 INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER NOMINEES ASYA HRISTOVA

Nominated for her work with Heart of Missouri United Way Asya started serving with Heart of Missouri United Way a year and a half ago as a marketing intern and has continued to serve as a volunteer. She helped fill the organization’s marketing needs during the United Way’s search for a new marketing and communications manager. According to her nominator, she was critical in managing and implementing the organization’s social media strategy and continues to work directly with the marketing committee. Asya was able to successfully manage and maintain regular information sharing through social media outreach, which helped raise $2.96 million. “Asya models what it means to be a community Hero with her volunteer spirit, commitment to the community, and her honorable and gracious character,” her nominator wrote.

ALISON BARKER

Nominated for her work with Services for Independent Living Alison began volunteering in Services for Independent Living’s Senior Connect and Cooks in the Kitchen programs as a student intern and continued volunteering after completing her internship.

She visits with her senior match about once a week, taking her shopping for basic needs, out to eat, and to the park. Her nominator wrote that Alison’s interactions with her senior match have helped that person be able to stay independent in their home with support and friendship. Alison also helps lead cooking classes for individuals with disabilities, serving as participants’ greatest cheerleader. “The respect she gives each person is evident; they feel seen, heard, and valued by Alison. Alison is a phenomenal teacher and facilitator, and she pours her whole heart into working with seniors and people with disabilities at SIL,” her nominator wrote. “Alison has demonstrated that true friendship knows no age limits.”

SAI GAJAGOWNI

Nominated for his work with Services for Independent Living Sai began volunteering with the Kids in the Kitchen and Wii Excellerate programs in fall of 2016 as part of a service learning class and continued after finishing the class. During Kids in the Kitchen he assists participants in learning cooking and kitchen safety skills. With Wii Excellerate he teaches youth with disabilities social skills in the setting of a game night. According to his nominator, Sai’s natural ability to

connect with people, ability to explain things in a way people can understand, his patience, and his upbeat nature all make him an invaluable asset. “Sai has a natural gift of connection. He really sees people, not as broken and needing help, but as whole individuals with life aspirations like him,” his nominator wrote. “Sai helps people recognize their own strengths, to imagine their future, and to focus on what they can contribute.”

JACKIE PITTMAN

Nominated for her work with Services for Independent Living Jackie has volunteered with the Cooks in the Kitchen program since being recruited by her son, Brady, in 2015, helping adults with disabilities learn cooking skills. Described as a natural caretaker, she waits for people to rotate through her station, meeting where they are and focusing on what they CAN do. Her nominator cited her willingness to let people try things on their own before stepping in to support and encourage them as vital to Services for Independent Living’s mission of empowering people to live independently. Since getting involved, Jackie has gotten her husband involved as well, making SIL a family affair for them. “Food brings people together,

Voluntary Action Center helps low-income individuals and families bridge the gaps between crisis and stability and improve quality of life in Boone County.

and Jackie’s dedication to the Cooks in the Kitchen program has ensured these bonds go beyond the class,” her nominator wrote. “We are so grateful for her service and steady presence each semester.”

LOIS MCDERMIT

Nominated for their work with CMCA Foster Grandparent Program Bernadette and Lois have a combined 34 years of service with the Foster Grandparent Program, with Lois providing transportation so the pair can visit their “grandchildren.” Their nominator described Bernadette as, “a feisty woman with a twinkle in her eye and a spark of human spirit that is absolutely contagious,” who shares her thoughts, opinions, and advice freely. Their nominator said Lois is a beautiful woman who, “has a bag of tricks Mary Poppins herself would envy.” They advocate for both the children and their fellow grandparents, participating in the Foster Grandparent Calling Tree, which helps senior volunteers keep in touch and encourages interaction and foster friendships to prevent isolation. “The ladies are so much in tune with each other volunteering side by side to achieve their common goal,” their nominator wrote. “Nominating one and not the other just wouldn’t do.”

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2018 YOUTH VOLUNTEER NOMINEES ALEX AND NOAH ELLETSON Nominated for their work with the Alzheimer’s Association

Five years ago, Alex Elletson did a project on Alzheimer’s Disease and learned about The Longest Day, one of the Alzheimer’s Association’s biggest fundraisers. The event was the same day as his 9th birthday, so Alex asked his parents if he could participate for his birthday. It has now become an annual tradition. He and his brother, Noah, raised more than $1,400 last year. The boys and their parents also participated in the first Memory Day in Jefferson City this March, meeting with senators and representatives to garner support for bills that would help support caregivers and those struggling with Alzheimer’s. “They show others that no matter how much time you have, you can always make an impact,” their nominator wrote. “They also exemplify strength and bravery speaking out for those that are no longer able to.”

QUINN CUNNINGHAM

GEORGE KENNEDY

Nominated for his work with the Rock Bridge High School Recycling Coalition

Nominated for his work with The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri

As someone with a passion for the environment, Quinn was concerned there were no recycling containers at Rock Bridge High School, so in February 2017, he led a waste audit of the school. He determined more than 10,000 pounds of containers were going to the landfill from the school each year that could be recycled instead. Just before the start of the 2017-18 school year, he was able to secure a $5,000 grant to purchase 30 container recycling bins for the school, which are serviced by the Rock Bridge High School Recycling Coalition.

For 16 years, George has been one of the food bank’s most faithful volunteers, logging 504 hours in 2017 alone. He repacks food in the volunteer room, spends one day a week helping distribute food at the food bank’s central pantry, helps at special events, and serves as a member of the board of directors. He also spreads the word about food insecurity through his weekly column in the Columbia Missourian. “George could have used his retirement to spend more time with his children and grandchildren, travel, play golf, relax, or explore self-interests,” his nominator wrote. “Instead, he has chosen to put in long hours of physical labor to help people in need. He is truly a humble servant who simply wants to make a difference.”

“Quinn is a hero because he took action. He never let any of the hurdles presented to him deter him,” his nominator wrote. “Quinn’s true impact comes from showing others what one high school student can do with a little vision and determination.”

SUE STEPHENS

Nominated for her work with the Laclede Literacy Council For 25 years, Sue has worked to tutor individuals incarcerated at the Laclede County Jail. She works with adults who need basic literacy skills and those working toward their HiSet degree, as well as working with the New Life House of Lebanon to help newly released young ladies get off to a good start. She has served more than 800 students over the years.

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Several of her students are now successful members of their communities, attending community college and managing local businesses. “(Sue) works tirelessly to help those less fortunate than herself,” her nominator wrote. “She is always available to help anyone who is in need. She deserves recognition for this work.”

BERNADETTE JOHNSON

2018 VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION NOMINEES NIKKI MCGRUDER AND THE MATTERS OF SOCIAL JUSTICE – JOURNEY TOWARDS INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE Formed in 2017, the Matters of Social Justice Committee aims to address implicit bias in our community and make Boone County a model for inclusive excellence. The organization’s objectives are to develop a selfawareness of biases, recognize privilege and oppression and their impact on the community, learn how to create a community where all feel valued, and to commit to impacting the systems that oppress others personally and professionally. The organization handed out approximately 800 “passports” in the first six weeks of the “Journey”. According to the nominator, Nikki McGruder has been the one to lead the charge, taking over leading the planning committee when the county backed down and using her connections with businesses to support the Inclusive Excellence Framework and the Journey toward Inclusive Excellence. “The Matters of Social Justice Committee is encouraging the community to come together like never before,” the organization’s nominator wrote. “(Nikki) is giving Columbia to the opportunity to move forward progressively together.”

KASTER FAMILY/HOPE CHEST Nominated for their work with City of Refuge

Last year, Chris and Wes Kaster and their three teenage daughters opened a room in the back of their home to host a clothing closet for refugees, immigrants, and others in need. They put in shelving, clothing racks, and tubs of clothing, and allow groups to come into their home to serve City of Refuge by hosting volunteers. Although Chris has battled major health problems, the family continues to open their home, often extending an extra plate at dinner. “They treat everyone with respect and dignity, which helps tremendously in the adjustment to a new culture,” their nominator wrote. “They have extended their hospitality in ways that go beyond the average volunteer role by allowing people to freely access their home, their family, and their friendship.”

UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI GAMMA PHI BETA ALPHA DELTA CHAPTER

Nominated for their work with Heart of Missouri Girls on the Run According to the organization’s nominator, the women of Gamma Phi Beta have been an integral part of providing support to the young girls, in grades 3-8, who participate in Girls on the Run. That support includes coaching, volunteering at the bi-annual

end-of-season 5k events, and hosting events for the girls at their campus house. When the program saw a 43-percent increase in enrollment during the fall 2017 season, the members of Gamma Phi Beta answered the frantic call for help, enabling Girls on the Run to serve all the 286 girls signed up.

environment, our community, and the neighborhood they are housed in,” their nominator wrote. “Their dedicated investment of their time and resources in our community helps make Columbia the best place to live, learn, work, and play.”

“The women of Gamma Phi Beta truly care about the girls they serve through Heart of Missouri Girls on the Run,” their nominator wrote. “We hear a lot these days about the disengagement and selfishness of today’s youth, but the actions of the members of MU’s Gamma Phi Beta sorority demonstrate otherwise.”

Nominated for its work with Coyote Hill Christian Children’s Home

SOCKET

Nominated for the company’s work with City of Columbia Volunteer Programs Socket has been active with the City of Columbia’s Adopt-A-Spot litter program for more than 10 years, with employees donating more than 130 hours each year to clean up Clark Lane from Paris Road to Highway 63. According to their nominator, Socket has gone above and beyond the program’s requirement of four services a year, going out to pick up trash when the need and the weather cooperate, often collecting more than 20 bags of litter – once picking up 88 bags in one day. “Socket’s dedicated commitment to litter control benefits the

WOODLANDVILLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

The staff and members of Woodlandville United Methodist Church have been active at Coyote Hill for almost 20 years. Among a number of other services provided, the church hosts an annual Christmas Shopping Spree, giving each child the opportunity to visit “Santa’s Workshop” and shop for their family members with the help of Santa’s elves. The church also hosts the children and their home parents for a homemade meal and activity the fourth Saturday of each month. “Their investment and time allows for the children and home parents to feel appreciated, sought out, and cared for,” their nominator wrote. “They are deserving of the Hero award because they not only give willingly of their time and resources without expecting anything in return, but they have impacted many generations to come by demonstrating what unconditional love and community look like.”

BE A HERO Shelter Insurance® is proud to recognize all those who volunteer their time and talent to make our community a great place to live. We’re your Shield. We’re your Shelter.

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