Three Naperville CARES volunteers recognized for contributions
Three Naperville CARES volunteers have been recognized recently for their outstanding contributions to the community.
Mary Jane Doody was named Naperville CARES Volunteer of the Year. Doody has been volunteering with CARES for three years and recently took on the role of volunteer coordinator. She also handles volunteer training and scheduling. Through her efforts, Doody has increased CARES' number of volunteers to more than 60.
Her name will join those of eight other previous award winners on a plaque displayed in the CARES office. The “Volunteer of the Year Award” was launched in 2005 to celebrate the work of those who give their time and commitment to Naperville CARES.
“Mary Jane has been a vital part to CARES' success,” said Maria McTarnaghan, Naperville CARES program manager. “She is a hard worker and is extremely dedicated to our mission at CARES.”
Margie Tarpey was awarded the Exchange Club of Naperville's 2013 Ervin Kendzora Book of Golden Deeds Award. The Exchange Club honors those volunteers who give hours timelessly and effortlessly to those in need. In addition to volunteering at CARES, Tarpey also gives her time to Loaves and Fishes Community Pantry and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
“Margie has been actively involved with every aspect of the CARES organization for the past 12 years,” said Janet Derrick, executive director of Naperville CARES. “Everyone at CARES is very grateful to the Exchange Club of Naperville for awarding her the 2013 Ervin Kendzora Book of Golden Deeds Award because it was a public affirmation of her commitment and passion for helping those in need in our community.”
Palma Aikins received the Rotary Club of Naperville's Paul Harris Award. She was given the award for her leadership, organization and participation in a variety of organizations throughout Naperville, including 100+ Women Who Care, St. Vincent DePaul Society at St. Elizabeth Seton Church and Edward Hospital's Animal Assisted Therapy Program.
“When Palma accepted the Paul Harris Award, she stated that she felt privileged to be able to volunteer her time to serve the community. We are all better off because her kind soul touches so many lives,” Derrick said. “We are honored that Mary Jane, Margie and Palma have chosen to share their time, talents and treasure with Naperville CARES.”
Since 1998, Naperville CARES has helped local families in financial crisis meet their basic needs by providing emergency financial support and resources. Headquartered in Naperville, Naperville CARES has provided more than $1.2 million in short-term financial support and resources. In addition, through the car program, CARES has supplied more than 500 donated vehicles to eligible households. Naperville CARES solicits community support through Toasting for a Cause, Cuisine for a Cause, Tix4Cause, CARESGiver, CARES Car Program and other events. For information visit NapervilleCARES.org.