2025 Volunteer Awards presented by the Wisconsin Public Service Foundation

The AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program has been a cornerstone of intergenerational connection since 1965, bringing together seniors and children to create impactful, lasting relationships. The Foster Grandparents, aged 55 to 85, dedicate their time to supporting children in classrooms, with a focus on those facing developmental challenges. Working with Encompass Early Education and Care is a natural fit for Foster Grandparents, as Encompass works diligently with partners in the community to ensure that the needs of children are met and declines in school readiness are being addressed. Foster Grandparents are placed in Encompass classrooms where they support small groups of children, typically ranging from infants to four years old. Through classroom activities, Foster Grandparents help them develop essential skills for school readiness, focusing on social-emotional growth, physical development, health, language, and communication. They provide one-on-one mentorship to children with emotional, language, or social needs, ensuring that each child receives personalized attention and guidance. Perhaps more importantly, the Foster Grandparents serve as stable, loving figures within the classroom, helping the Encompass teachers create a nurturing environment that encourages positive interactions with peers and adults. In 2024, Foster Grandparents supported 384 children across seven Encompass centers, contributing to the overall well-being of the children they mentor. The program’s impact is measurable, with 97% of children matched with a Foster Grandparent showing gains in their school readiness skills, a testament to the volunteers’ dedication and the effectiveness of the program. The Foster Grandparent Program not only benefits the children but also enriches the lives of the seniors who participate. Many Foster Grandparents have been with the program for years, with some serving for over a decade. Despite their physical limitations or other personal challenges, they show up with dedication and warmth, committed to making a positive difference. Along with a significant time investment in training, many Foster Grandparents visit their classrooms daily because they truly love the kids they serve.

When St. John’s Ministries opened its women’s emergency shelter in November of 2024, a critical shortage of breakfast volunteers threatened to leave guests – women experiencing homelessness – without a morning meal. Of 64 needed shifts, only 20 were initially filled. Amid record-breaking shelter numbers, the need for volunteers was urgent. Many guests face barriers such as trauma, mental health challenges, or legal issues that prevent access to other shelters, making St. John’s a shelter of last resort. Enter the Breakfast Heroes, a dedicated group of 30 volunteers who serve in teams at 5:30 a.m. daily. Their efforts ensure every woman starts her day with a warm meal and a sense of dignity. These volunteers contribute hundreds of hours per season, prepare creative meals from limited resources, and even cook from home to add extra care. Their work allows shelter staff to focus on case management and long-term solutions. Beyond just filling shifts, these volunteers create a compassionate, community-driven culture. They train newcomers, often pick up extra days, and inspire others through recruitment efforts that led to onboarding 10 new volunteers in just six weeks. Their kindness builds relationships with guests, offering comfort, hope, and a sense of family. The Breakfast Heroes embody servant leadership and compassion, often rearranging their lives to meet this need. In doing so, they not only nourish bodies but also spirits, ensuring that each guest at St. John’s feels seen, known, and loved.

With consistency, commitment, compassion, and a heart for community, the Lunch Friends have been making a difference in families’ lives for more than two decades. In the heart of Freedom House, where families work to overcome the challenges of housing insecurity, the Lunch Friends have remained a reliable source of hope, connection, and respect. These extraordinary women have pulled together every Wednesday for the past 20 years to prepare and serve home-cooked meals that nourish both body and soul. Their service goes far beyond the meal. It is an art of building relationships and creating special connections. These ladies work together coordinating meals, attending to the special dietary needs of residents, and offering warm, personal interactions. The Lunch Friends transform a weekly routine into a celebration of life’s simple, yet profound, pleasures. In each carefully prepared dish and each thoughtful gesture, they provide shelter residents not only with nutritious food but with the dignity and connection they so richly deserve. The transformative power of their work demonstrates that volunteerism is not just about filling a need, it’s about nurturing the spirit. Their unwavering dedication inspires everyone at the shelter, reminding us that even in the most challenging circumstances, community becomes the light that guides us forward. It’s striking how such simple, sustained acts create, not just ripples, but waves of positivity that can lift an individual, a family, and an entire community.

Dave and his crew have been invaluable volunteers at Ecumenical Partnership for Housing (EPH) since 2019, generously donating their time, skills, and labor to support the organization’s mission. With only a small staff of 10, EPH manages 38 homes that provide shelter to 38 families at any given time. Dave and his team have stepped up repeatedly to handle large-scale carpentry, demolition, and renovation projects across these properties, saving EPH thousands of dollars by eliminating the need for hired contractors. Their contributions go beyond physical labor. Dave also serves on EPH’s Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and Fund Development Committee, demonstrating his commitment to both the hands-on and strategic sides of the organization. While EPH’s volunteer tracking system was implemented in 2018, it does not fully reflect the countless hours contributed by Dave’s team, as they often work quietly and without seeking recognition. This crew is known for their meticulous planning and execution. From building and tearing down fences to remodeling rooms, their work is done with excellence and minimal disruption to resident families. They even consider details like restroom access during project planning. Their efforts have made a visible impact throughout Brown County, with neighbors expressing appreciation and even joining in on projects. Dave and his crew embody the spirit of service, approaching each new project with enthusiasm and care. Their selflessness not only enhances EPH properties but also uplifts the surrounding communities. Thanks to their work, EPH can invest more resources directly into the families they serve.

Tony is a vital ingredient in Evergreen Theater’s vibrant community arts scene. His journey began when his youngest was just 10, and despite life’s many changes, his dedication has only grown stronger over the years. As a committed volunteer, Tony has embraced every role with enthusiasm, whether stepping in as one of their finest sound designers, tackling the manual labor of set construction, or lighting up Evergreen Brat Fry fundraisers as a beloved grill master. When a need arose for sound expertise, Tony wasn’t deterred. He boldly said, “Teach me how to do it,” and quickly mastered the craft to ensure every performance radiates with emotion and clarity. His willingness to learn not only filled a vital gap but opened doors for mentorship, as he now guides youth keen to explore the magic behind the scenes. On the Board of Directors, where he now serves as vice president, his leadership, common sense, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in driving Evergreen Theater’s growth. Tony’s presence transforms every project into a joyful, collaborative adventure. His energy and big heart make every production, every workshop, and every community event a testament to what volunteerism can achieve. Working with Tony means knowing that every challenge is met with a smile and every opportunity is seized with a genuine passion to uplift those around him. Through his tireless service, he not only brings the arts to life in the Green Bay area but also ignites hope and unity in the community. Tony’s blend of skill, mentorship, and infectious enthusiasm embodies the spirit of the arts and Evergreen Theater and reminds us that a single dedicated volunteer can indeed move mountains.

Dan has been a driving force behind the Civic Symphony of Green Bay, serving as its board president for the past six years. A dedicated musician and leader, Dan joined the volunteer orchestra 22 years ago and has been its principal trumpet since 2011. He’s also served as brass coordinator, personnel chair, and vice president, in addition to his current role as president. Dan leads with humility, humor, and a tireless work ethic and is often the first to arrive and last to leave. During the pandemic, Dan guided the orchestra through a challenging period by spearheading innovative strategies to reconnect with the community. He introduced “concert/event integration” and “interactive concert” experiences, including a dance-themed concert at Lambeau Field and a movie-music performance with live trivia and real-time program notes. These fresh ideas helped attract new, younger audiences and reinvigorated community interest in symphonic music. Dan also helped establish a summer concert at a local airport hangar, incorporating family-friendly activities and aviation elements through his connections in the flying community. His efforts have required immense logistical planning, from securing venues and volunteers to working with sponsors and city officials. Beyond the symphony, Dan is a professional in digital workplace solutions, a licensed pilot, and active in several other music and community organizations. Despite his many commitments, he remains grounded and generous, always focused on improvement, inclusion, and inspiration. Dan’s visionary leadership, musical excellence, and commitment to service make him an irreplaceable asset to the Civic Symphony and the broader Green Bay arts community.

Romelle is a beacon of hope and transformation. Drawing from her own journey through trauma, homelessness, and addiction, she exemplifies a unique level of resilience, understanding, and compassion to those who feel unseen and unvalued. Her presence at St. John’s Ministries Women’s Shelter and Wellspring resource center creates a palpable sense of stability and dignity that inspires every woman she encounters. At Wellspring, where over 300 women seek refuge each year, Romelle’s empathetic support goes far beyond providing resources. Whether through personal conversations, building up other women through the Empowerment Program, or launching her monthly “Sister Talk Spa Day,” she instills a belief in self-worth and renewal. Her self-care ministry not only grants a moment of peace and rejuvenation but also reinforces that every individual deserves time to heal and rediscover her strength. Romelle’s commitment is both deep and constant. Volunteering multiple times a week, she meets each challenge with an open heart, thoughtfully sharing the wisdom born of her own hard-won recovery. By embracing her role as a mentor and peer supporter, she builds genuine relationships that nurture confidence and spark transformative change. Her candid sharing of lived experience breaks down barriers and fosters trust, reminding each guest that hope is within reach and that they, too, are capable of profound personal growth. Romelle epitomizes the true spirit of service, where compassion meets courage and every act of care plants the seed for a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. Her journey and leadership continue to inspire not just those she directly serves but all who believe in the power of resilience and connection.

Shad, founder and president of Take ‘Em Outdoors, has devoted himself to creating life-changing outdoor experiences for children with severe or terminal illnesses and combat-wounded veterans. Since 2006, his nonprofit has helped hundreds overcome physical, emotional, and logistical barriers to enjoy hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities – experiences that restore hope, confidence, and joy during life’s most difficult moments. Inspired by the final hunts he shared with a close friend battling melanoma, Shad volunteers over 500 hours annually, organizing events, coordinating logistics, securing specialized equipment, and personally mentoring participants. His meticulous planning ensures every detail is covered, from meals and lodging to medical accommodations, so families can focus on healing and making memories. Shad’s leadership has created a strong, supportive community of volunteers, landowners, and donors. His ability to inspire others has allowed Take ‘Em Outdoors to grow into a respected and impactful organization. Events often become turning points for participants, like one young cancer patient who found renewed joy and confidence after a successful hunt arranged by Shad. Despite balancing a full-time job, family responsibilities, and coaching, Shad remains hands-on in every aspect of the organization. His selfless commitment and compassionate approach have left a lasting mark on the lives he touches. Shad’s work not only changes individual lives but also fosters a ripple effect of kindness and community involvement. Through Take ‘Em Outdoors, he brings light to dark times and proves that with passion and purpose, one person truly can make a profound difference.

Sometimes, small acts of kindness can add up to a big impact. A dedicated and highly respected student at Green Bay West High School, Chloe has humbly made a difference within both her school and the Green Bay community. With over 200 hours, Chloe has logged more volunteer time than most of her peers at West High School. Her community volunteer work is broad, from raking leaves for elderly neighbors to helping clean up Baird Creek and the Broadway District. Most notably, Chloe has volunteered weekly with Newcap, an organization that helps move people from poverty to opportunity and economic stability. There, Chloe is willing to help where needed, including sorting clothing donations, providing office support, and assisting with holiday events. In addition to her work outside of school, Chloe is a well-respected leader within the West High School community. She has consistently supported teachers and students by organizing events, managing lab equipment, volunteering for the track and soccer teams, and assisting with school-wide initiatives such as the Art and Academic Week hosted by the West IB program. As the coordinator of the volunteer club, she truly modeled servant leadership and helped foster a culture of service within the high school. Chloe’s positive attitude and willingness to take on any task, no matter how small, have made a lasting impact on both individual students and the larger school community. As she moves forward into a very bright future, it’s clear that Chloe will continue to spread kindness wherever she goes. Her journey so far has been a testament to her character, and there is little doubt that she will achieve great things in the future.

Ella is a dedicated student volunteer who has contributed over 500 hours across multiple organizations, including The Salvation Army, Paul’s Pantry, Feeding America, the Green Bay Hmong Community, the YWCA Full Circle program, and ADRC Grounded Café. For the past four years, she has consistently organized and packed food donations, served meals with a focus on customer service, and helped others access essential resources. Her work with the YWCA involved supporting autistic peers, showcasing her empathy and patience. Through these efforts, Ella has developed valuable life skills, especially in communication, teamwork, and organization. Despite challenges related to autism, Ella has grown significantly in her social abilities. Volunteering has helped her build confidence, engage positively with adults and peers, and become an integral, reliable part of every team she joins. Her cheerful personality and willingness to help have made her a joy to work with, both in school and the community. Ella’s experiences have not only allowed her to give back but have also shaped her personal growth, preparing her for future success.

Dedication to education takes on many different forms. Certainly, teachers, staff, and school administrators lead the charge in ensuring students receive a quality education. But volunteers can also provide the supplemental support needed to help students thrive. As a dedicated volunteer within the Green Bay Area Public Schools, Dawn can be found within the walls of Langlade School and Lombardi Middle School so regularly that the students look forward to visits from “Miss Dawn.” She does not simply fill one role within the schools but is always willing to help out where she is most needed. As an active member of the Langlade PTO, Dawn coordinates fun events like the Mile Walk and bowling field trip that help strengthen the school’s sense of community. She also helps students understand the importance of giving back by coordinating the Hygiene for the Homeless drive and serving as a Girl Scout troop leader. Teachers and staff know that they can rely on Dawn for a helping hand when needed. Dawn also focuses much of her volunteer work on student literacy and fostering a love of reading. She runs the Lions for Literacy program and helps ensure that the school library is a place where students feel engaged and excited about books. This year, Dawn took on a new responsibility as a Reading Coach, spending time in multiple classrooms working one-on-one with struggling young readers. And when Dawn and her family saw that Langlade’s Little Free Library was broken, they immediately stepped in to build a new library, enhancing access to books for families. Through her actions, Dawn motivates both staff and students by leading by example and actively engaging with the school community to enhance the learning experience. Her selflessness and enthusiasm are apparent in everything she does. She willingly gives her time, often going above and beyond her duties. Whether brainstorming new ideas for school improvement or simply providing a helping hand, Dawn’s positive energy and dedication have made a lasting impact on Langlade. As her nominator put it, “Dawn is always eager to do more, to take on more. She comes up with ideas on her own that will better our school. She is an inspirational volunteer, and a key part of the vibrant Langlade School community.”

Since 2011, New Leaf Foods, a volunteer-led nonprofit in Green Bay, has promoted healthy food access and education by building a sustainable local food system. As a key partner in the 2022-23 Regional Food Action Plan, they launched impactful projects, including the Urban Food Forest, Seed Library, and Local Food Communication Hub. These efforts, along with the Bountiful Branches and Community Orchard initiatives, aim to combat rising food insecurity and health issues by empowering residents to grow their own food. Central to these efforts is Dillon, a graduate and instructor at NWTC’s Sustainable Food and Agriculture Systems program. Since 2020, Dillon has led New Leaf’s Garden Blitz, coordinated plant sales, and designed orchards at schools and parks. His leadership and expertise have enabled the planting of 11 community orchards and distribution of over 1,000 fruit- and nut-bearing plants. Dillon also teaches the public through free classes on growing perennial foods, sharing practical knowledge to ensure long-term food sustainability. Dillon’s dedication, from volunteer roles to educational outreach, has made him an essential force behind New Leaf’s mission of food sovereignty, focusing on local food systems, education, and empowerment. His commitment extends beyond tasks; he inspires change, guiding others in creating a healthier, more resilient community food future.

The Green Bay housing market study has identified gaps in affordable housing as a critical issue affecting the quality of life in Green Bay. Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity and its team of dedicated volunteers are actively working to address the issue by constructing affordable homes and selling them to qualified buyers at no profit. One outstanding volunteer in particular has had a profound and lasting impact on the organization. Vern first became connected with Habitat when a friend and mentor invited him to join the board. Though he hadn’t previously volunteered with Habitat, he was motivated by the opportunity to make a real difference and learn more about the organization. Over the years, Vern became increasingly involved, taking on additional volunteer roles in home construction, the Habitat ReStore, fundraising, and special projects and events. Vern’s leadership has not only made a high-level impact on the board but has also been vital in the organization’s day-to-day operations. Managing the flooring department in the ReStore, Vern keeps the area organized and efficient while handling thousands of pounds of tile and wood flooring. More importantly, he goes above and beyond to provide excellent service to donors and customers alike and always makes a concerted effort to get to know his fellow volunteers. Since 2010, Vern has given more than 1,500 hours to Habitat for Humanity, including 600 just within the last two years since his retirement. Vern’s pragmatic approach to solving problems, coupled with his compassionate leadership and belief in Habitat’s mission, have helped grow the organization significantly over the past 15 years, both financially and in volunteer and community support. As a board member, he has provided critical guidance during staff transitions, funding challenges, and other difficulties. Staff and fellow board members know they can rely on Vern’s steady, calming presence and sound judgement. Habitat’s President and CEO Jessica Diderich said, “Vern’s dedication to our organization is inspiring. His career experience, leadership approach and enthusiastic support at the board level have helped our organization grow substantially. He’s the first to join committees, take on new projects and get his hands dirty volunteering in the ReStore or on the job site. As a member of Habitat’s Executive Committee, he brings such great perspective to conversations, both as a leader and a volunteer. His time and talent are invaluable to Habitat’s mission, and I hope he can look back someday and be proud of the lasting impact he made on our community.”

Dan has been a devoted volunteer with Ecumenical Partnership for Housing (EPH) since 2000, contributing in nearly every area of the organization for over 25 years. Though their system only tracks his service from 2018, Dan’s impact far exceeds records. He leads and co-leads various programs, most notably founding and heading the Family of Faith Program, which brings together families over shared meals and connection. Each month, he prepares family-style meals for up to 38 families without seeking recognition or reimbursement. Dan has served on the EPH Board of Directors since 2020 and is known for initiating ideas while allowing others to take the lead and credit. His creativity, compassion, and humility have deeply influenced EPH’s culture and expansion. Whether he’s cooking, holding a baby, or helping tear down physical and emotional walls, Dan embodies servant leadership. His quiet presence and unwavering commitment inspire others to reflect on how they can serve their communities more fully.

This extraordinary woman gives us all something to strive for as a shining example of strength, selflessness, and humility. Donna balanced raising her family while working full time, even as she broke new ground as one of the first female volunteer EMTs in her community. When she first stepped into St. John’s Ministries with the simple intention of donating clothing, little did she know that her life was about to change forever and that her willingness to connect with others would be so uplifting for so many souls. For more than a decade, Donna has been a steadfast presence at the St. John’s Ministries Men’s Shelter, embodying reliability, service, and compassion. Every Friday night during the cold-weather season, Donna makes a 45-minute drive into Green Bay, turning the men’s shelter into a haven of care and dignity. Whether meticulously sorting donated clothing so that every individual feels valued or lending her hands in the kitchen to ensure warm meals are served, she builds relationships that go far beyond material needs. In her role as both a leader and mentor, she offers guidance and reassurance, creating an environment where every guest feels seen and supported. Donna’s volunteerism is measured not only in the thousands of hours she has given but in the countless lives she has touched. Her unwavering dedication provides comfort to those facing homelessness and inspires a culture of genuine connection among both guests and fellow volunteers. Through her actions, Donna teaches us that true service lies in the everyday moments of kindness, whether providing an extra pair of socks on a chilly night or simply sharing a listening ear. Her life is a testament to the powerful impact of consistent, compassionate, and courageous service.

Larry has been a dedicated volunteer with St. Vincent de Paul for over 20 years, offering compassionate support to individuals and families in Brown County, especially those experiencing homelessness. As the leader of the Resource Center, he oversees more than 15 volunteers and serves 40–50 walk-in guests three days a week, providing essential resources like rent and utility assistance, furniture, clothing, transportation vouchers, and, most importantly, a listening ear. Larry also serves as president of both the Green Bay District Council and the Board of Directors, volunteering nearly 40 hours a week. His commitment extends beyond the Resource Center, as he partners with local organizations to support refugees, the formerly incarcerated, and those in transitional housing. He also participates in annual community drives and has a legacy of service through past roles with the Stephen Ministry and the Ecumenical Partnership for Housing. Larry’s creative problem-solving, leadership, and humility have made him an inspiration to fellow Vincentians. With over 13,000 volunteer hours logged, his impact is profound and deeply felt across the community. Even beyond direct service, his lifelong commitment to giving, such as donating 131 gallons of platelets to the Red Cross, is a testament to his generous spirit.