Hanover Township recognizes Community Service Award winners
Winners and nominees were honored at the Supervisor’s Community Service Awards Breakfast at the Hanover Township Senior Center on Saturday, April 12.
Jay Olriksen was presented with the event’s top recognition, the Mary Ellen “Mel” Runzel Volunteer Service Award.
A resident of Schaumburg, Olriksen has been volunteering in the township food pantry for 16 years, driving the pantry van to pick up donations from local grocery stores and businesses as well as training other volunteers. Jay will be retiring from his volunteer responsibilities in June.
Other awards were presented to: Joseph Mlynarczyk, Youth Volunteer; Monica and Jay O'Neill, Adult Volunteers; Mary Wojtczak, Senior Volunteer; the Alignment for Collaborative Education, Service Organization of the Year; and Elgin Jewel-Osco, Business Organization of the Year.
“The quantity and quality of the nominations submitted each year is truly amazing,” said Hanover Township Supervisor Brian P. McGuire. “The selfless service from so many individuals, businesses, and service groups is a true testament to the strong volunteer spirit in the township.”
Those receiving the Supervisor’s Choice Awards included: Zachary Stiens, Youth Volunteer; Mikie Swier and Nicoletta Wright, Adult Volunteer; Terrie Kuenker and Chris Gozdecki, Senior Volunteer; Kiwanis Club of Streamwood, Service Organization of the Year; and Chesterbrook Academy, Business Organization of the Year.
To receive a nomination form for the 2026 awards, email info@hanover-township.org