The Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership recently held its annual “Heart of Marin” awards ceremony, honoring local nonprofits and volunteers for their outstanding contributions to the community. The event, which took place on January 9, 2025, at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall in San Rafael, recognized the efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to making a difference in Marin County.
Key Takeaways
- Over 100 nominees were considered for the awards.
- A total of $35,000 in awards was distributed across various categories.
- Christine Comaford was named Volunteer of the Year for her 26 years of service in hospice care.
- Youth volunteers were also recognized for their impactful contributions.
Volunteer Of The Year
Christine Comaford, a dedicated caregiver with By the Bay Health, was honored as the Volunteer of the Year. With 26 years of experience, including 16 years with By the Bay Health, Comaford has supported 64 individuals through the end-of-life process. She emphasized the importance of hospice care, urging families to seek these services early in a terminal diagnosis to benefit from the comprehensive support offered.
Awards And Recognitions
The awards were presented in eight categories, showcasing the diverse contributions of local nonprofits and volunteers. The following individuals and organizations received notable honors:
- Excellence in Leadership Award: Caroline Peattie, Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California.
- Excellence in Board Leadership Award: David Bernard, San Geronimo Valley Community Center.
- Lifetime Achievement Awards: Donna Garske and Bettie Hodges, recognized for their long-term commitment to social activism.
- Youth Volunteer Honorees:
- Tess Belger, Project Awareness and Special Sports
- Hudson Blechman, 100+ Teens Who Care Bay Area
- Candice Lucas, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
- Walt Novosardian, Youth Leadership Institute and Marin County Youth Commission
- Shea Sorcher, Marin County Sheriff Search and Rescue team
- Corporate Community Service Award: Woodlands Pet Food and Treats.
- Excellence in Innovation Award: Marin Foster Care Association.
- Achievement in Nonprofit Excellence Award: Marin Child Care Council.
Ceremony Highlights
The ceremony was a celebration of community spirit, with sponsors including BioMarin, Comerica Bank, Kaiser Permanente, and the Marin Community Foundation. Each award, except for the corporate community service category, came with a $5,000 prize, while the five youth volunteers each received $1,000 to support their ongoing efforts.
The event not only recognized the hard work of these individuals and organizations but also served as a reminder of the vital role that nonprofits play in enhancing the quality of life in Marin County. The Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership continues to inspire and mobilize community members to engage in volunteerism and support local initiatives, fostering a culture of giving and service throughout the region.
Sources
- Marin nonprofits and volunteers honored for service, Marin Independent Journal.