Community Service Award winners recognized in Hanover Township

Winners and nominees were honored at the Hanover Township Supervisor's Community Service Awards Breakfast at the Hanover Township Senior Center Saturday, March 25.

A volunteer committee reviewed the nominations submitted by the community for awards in five categories.

Nominations are judged on the service activities of the individual or community organization, in addition to the impact the service has on the community and individuals in the community.

Awards were presented to: Selina Chavez, Youth Volunteer; Liza Gutierrez, Adult Volunteer; Cherry Stoddard, Senior Volunteer; Streamwood Woman's Club, Service Organization of the Year; and Countryside Funeral Home, Business Organization of the Year.

This year's committee included Chairman Marv Kramer, Lori Ann Airdo, William Henderson, Kerrie Trebonsky and Mary Wojtczak.

"The quantity and quality of the nominations submitted this year was truly amazing," said Brian P. McGuire, Hanover Township supervisor.

"The significant accomplishments by nominees and award winners from the past year have made a tremendous impact in our community."

Those receiving the Supervisor's Choice Awards included Tony's Fresh Market-Hanover Park, Business Organization of the Year; Bartlett 4th of July Committee and village of Bartlett Police Department, Service Organization of the Year; Mike Grant, Senior Volunteer; Eileen Ruttenberg and Lonnie Williams, Adult Volunteer; and Heather Vates, Youth Volunteer.

Rosamaria "Rose" Martinez was presented with the event's top recognition, the Mary Ellen "Mel" Runzel Volunteer Service Award. A resident of Elgin, Martinez serves on the Elgin City Council and is an active member of American Legion Post 57.

The award was created in 2013 to honor Mel for her immeasurable efforts in creating new programs and recruiting volunteers throughout as a former township trustee and township Welfare Services director.