2024 Distinguished Volunteers

Congratulations to the 2024 National Philanthropy Day Distinguished Volunteers!

Al Banning photo

Albert "Al"Banning
Recognized by North Star Reach
“Inspiring”

Al is a fixture at summer camps, family camps, special events, and work weekends. Whenever there is a need, Al is there. His impact on campers, families, volunteers, and staff will last far into the future because of his dedication and selfless nature. He has the heart of a true volunteer and is always willing to help when needed.

Jan Cheek photo

Jan Cheek
Recognized by Leader Dogs for the Blind
“Dedicated”
 
For over 20 years, Jan has served the Leader Dog mission as a breeding assistant and on-campus puppy raiser. Over the years, she has volunteered in a multitude of roles from a breeding a litter assistant, canine support assistant, downtown Rochester guide, client shopper, and instructor support. We could not be more grateful to have Jan as a part of the Leader Dog family.

Joline Clark photo

Joline Clark
Recognized by Leader Dogs for the Blind
“Loyal”
 
For over 29 years Joline has provided dedicated volunteer service to the Leader Dog mission. She currently serves as a canine support assistant, supporting future leader dogs in training on their journey to become a guide dog. She has also served as a Career Change Field Trip assistant, Dog Bather, Mailroom volunteer, and Dog Walker. We are grateful for Joline's commitment to the Leader Dog mission.

Dr Shukri David photo

Dr. Shukri David 
Recognized by Ascension Providence Foundation
“Passionate”
 
Dr. Shukri David is a pillar of medical excellence and philanthropic dedication. His compassion and leadership have advanced the interventional cardiology field and spearheaded transformative initiatives in philanthropy and community service. Dr. David has an unwavering commitment to giving back to those in need. His strategic vision has been pivotal to many major projects benefiting Ascension Providence Hospital, the American Heart Association and other nonprofits. He was instrumental in organizing the 2024 Friends’ Ball, which raised an unprecedented $400,000 for essential hospital initiatives.

Amber DeClaire photo

Amber DeClaire 
Recognized by Ascension Providence Rochester Foundation
“Selfless”
 
Amber DeClaire has selflessly devoted many years to Ascension Providence Rochester (formerly Crittenton) Foundation. Her dedication, generosity, enthusiasm and genuine philanthropic spirit make her an invaluable asset to the community. Always ready to lend a hand, Amber embodies altruism, inspiring everyone. Serving on committees for the Foundation’s signature events, she tirelessly champions the cause. Amber instills the value of giving back in her daughters, fostering a legacy of compassion and service.

Chef Marc Djozlija photo

Chef Marc Djozlija
Recognized by Schoolcraft College Foundation
“Visionary”
 
Chef Marc Djozlija, as Culinary Extravaganza Event Committee Chair for Schoolcraft College Foundation, has shown outstanding leadership for eight years. His innovative approach transformed the largest fundraiser into a showcase of student talent, supporting various campus initiatives. Djozlija's commitment to culinary excellence and community engagement makes him a deserving recipient of this recognition.

Sandy and Gary Frick photo

Sandy and Gary Frick 
Recognized by Leader Dogs for the Blind
“Committed”
 
Gary and Sandy have over 30 years of volunteer service to Leader Dog in countless roles. They currently serve as blindfold guides, dog transition assistant, dog transport drivers, puppy class assistants, puppy raiser visits prison program, puppy counselors, and puppy raiser visit assistants with clients. They have previously served as warm weather training support and harness the power of leadership. They are legendary figures here at Leader Dogs for the Blind.
Kimberly Gaedeke photo
Caption
Kimberly Gaedeke
Recognized by Advantage Health
“Benevolent”
 
Kim has been on the board of directors for Advantage Health for some time now. She serves as the Chair, Advocacy & Community Engagement Committee, Member, Development and Philanthropy Committee. Over 25 years of professional experience, having held various management, leadership and executive roles in the private and public sectors. Industries include higher education, start-up tech, state of Michigan executive and legislative branches, health care, and consultancy.

Diane and Saul Green photo

Diane and Saul Green
Recognized by Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit
“Paragon”
 
Saul and Diane Green have been devoted volunteers and donors at Mosaic for over 15 years. Diane has compassionately guided graduating seniors through a college transition course, supporting them even as they continue their collegiate journey. The Greens are ardent champions for Detroit’s youth, regularly attending and bringing others to Mosaic productions, making a lasting impact on countless young artists.

Alec Hagen photo

Alec Hagen
Recognized by Autism Alliance of Michigan
“Driven” 
 
Alec grew up with two cousins diagnosed with severe autism. Volunteering at AAoM and quickly turned into Chairing our Young Professionals Board. He now sits on multiple committees and advises us on planned giving strategies. Alec is driven to help make our community a place where all autistic individual can lead lives to their full potential.

Christina Hajj photo

Christina Hajj
Recognized by Avalon Healing Center
“Steadfast”
 
Christina Hajj has been a volunteer and board member for over 6 years. She has been instrumental in helping to craft our strategic plan, build our relationship DTE as a major partnership, as well as supporting Avalon Healing's Capital Campaign. Her passion and dedication for working with survivors of sexual violence is evident in her showing up for Avalon everyday regardless of her other responsibilities.

Robert and Sara Holmes photo

Robert and Sara Holmes
Recognized by Cass Community Social Services
“Committed”
 
Bob & Sara have been long-time volunteers at Cass, working in the kitchen, board of directors, philanthropy committee, campaign committee, delivering food, serving the homeless, and being enthusiastic donors and advocates. Their commitment to advancing Cass's mission is top-notch.

Sandra Jones photo

Sandra “Sandi” Jones
Recognized by Macomb Community College Foundation
“Trendsetter”
 
Sandra (Sandi) Jones has been a trendsetter, becoming one of the first graduates of the legal assistant program at Macomb Community College and the first paralegal employed at Chrysler Corporation. Because of her dedication to education and the admiration of veterans, Sandi established the Veterans of the United States Scholarship at Macomb Community College, supporting more than 100 students since 2017.

Stefanie Kimball photo

Stefanie Kimball
Recognized by Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan
“Committed”
 
JASEM nominates eight-year Board member, Stefanie M. Kimball as our distinguished volunteer. Kimball, Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer at Independent Bank is an active member of the JASEM Development and Marketing Committee. Kimball leads by being the first donor to commit for every fiscal year and she supports several JA initiatives with both sponsorship and her attendance.

Diana Kohler photo

Diana Kohler
Recognized by Urban Neighborhood Initiatives
“Believer”
 
In 2017, Diana Kohler began working as a volunteer at UNI after her tenure as an employee. Since 2017, Diana has played an essential role in our organization as a volunteer on our Fund Development Committee supporting our fundraising efforts. Diana is a thought partner and inspiration to the donor stewardship work that we execute as an organization. She strongly believes in our mission and has committed an insurmountable amount of time to our work. She uses her keen eye to detail and story-telling skills to communicate our story with donors, funders, and our community. Diana works as an extension to staff maintain our donor database, connect with other donors who support our mission and is an advocate for our work in the community. We are so grateful to have had Diana volunteer with us over the last 8 years.
 
Outside of her work with UNI Diana spends time with her family and volunteers with other local groups. She is currently a Board Member for the Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health and a president of her church congregation.

Tracie Malone_Dykes photo

Tracie Malone-Dykes
Recognized by Avalon Healing Center
“Passionate”
 
Tracie has been a great asset to our organization. She originally began volunteering to support our survivors during medical forensic exams after an acute sexual assault. Tracie then saw a need for assistance within our building and began assisting with administrative tasks. Tracie is very passionate about supporting survivors. She has a warm and caring demeanor which is essential in the work we do. Tracie has volunteered to share this gift by being the face many survivors see when they enter our doors and approach our welcome table. She makes survivors feel welcome, comfortable, and safe. Tracie is also a great support to our staff.

Dr Ruth Mays photo

Dr. Ruth Mays
Recognized by Neighborhood Service Organization
“Giving”
 
Dr. Ruth Mays is a family medicine doctor, global outreach missionary, and Founder of RestoreU Inc. RestoreU Inc. was formed in 2016 to raise funds and promote initiatives to serve the people who need help the most in order to restore lives, relationships, and neighborhoods.
 
Dr. Mays was dedicated to creating healthy communities and became interested in working with NSO while gearing up to form a nonprofit of her own in 2016. She was also committed to feeding the unhoused population in Detroit. Mays came to know NSO after seeing our team provide unhoused individuals with services and resources to address their needs.
 
After seeing our street outreach firsthand, she reached out with the perfect opportunity to help our shelter residents. Mays began and continues to provide hot meals to our shelter residents since 2016. She recently stated that she feels NSO has been a "consistent helper" throughout the neighborhoods that we serve, not just to individuals but also to families and communities. Dr. Mays has provided hundreds of meals across NSO shelter and housing locations and has supported our Handlebars for the Homeless fundraiser as a ride team lead, helping to raise funds that help end homelessness.
 
Because of donors like Dr. Mays, we continue to be a beacon of hope for the neighborhoods we serve and continue to bridge the gap in every client's unique needs.

Dr Richard McDowell photo

Dr. Richard McDowell
Recognized by Schoolcraft College Foundation
“Servant Leader”
 
Dr. Richard McDowell was Schoolcraft College's third president from 1981 to 2001, leading significant growth during his tenure. His dedication to academic excellence and affordable education is evident through his active involvement in the Culinary Arts Program and the Schoolcraft College Foundation. Recently, he was honored as an honorary member of the Culinary Chef Squad at the Foundation's Culinary Extravaganza, reflecting his lasting impact on the community.

Marjace Miles photo

Marjace Miles
Recognized by Michigan Science Center
“Trailblazer”
 
Marjace Miles is a highly innovative board member for the Michigan Science Center known for his strategic thinking and forward-thinking solutions driver. As the Sr. Manager of Ford's Public Charging Experience, Marjace brings his leadership and energy to significantly impact Mi-Sci's growth and sustainability.

Janelle Morck photo

Janelle Morck
Recognized by Judson Center
“Dedicated”
 
Janelle Morck, a dedicated Judson Center Trustee since 2013 and Child Safe board member since 2018, is deeply passionate about the organization's mission. She leads with heart, chairing the Human Resources Committee and serving on both the Executive and Insurance Review Committees. As co-chair of the Judson Center Galas, her boundless creativity, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication inspire others. Janelle’s heartfelt commitment to every event makes her an indispensable part of Judson Center’s continued success and impact.

Mackenzie Nichols photo

Mackenzie Nichols
Recognized by Leader Dogs for the Blind
“Superstar”
 
Mackenzie has advocated for the Leader Dog mission on the Oakland University campus, has raised multiple puppies for the Leader Dog mission on campus, she has led the Oakland University Future Leader Dogs Club and supported student raisers on campus. Mackenzie is a constant advocate for people who are blind, and she raised Leader Dog Benelli who guides a visually impaired person in Spain!

Claudia Nickel photo

Claudia Nickel
Recognized by Cass Community Social Services
“Devoted”
 
She has been a volunteer in all the programs at Cass, from kitchen to Trading Places to board of directors. Her attitude is one of "can do" and she recruits other volunteers to assist. She is passionate about Cass's work to help the homeless and others, seeing that basic needs are met for those Cass serves. She is an exemplary leader and volunteer!

Bernadette O’Neill photo

Bernadette O’Neill
Recognized by Angela Hospice
“Dedication”
 
For 20 years, Bernadette has passionately contributed to Angela Hospice, initially providing direct care to patients and currently supporting the development department. Inspired by the exceptional care her mother and sister received, she embodies compassion and dedication, ensuring that others experience the same support. Her deep empathy and commitment make her an invaluable asset to our organization and community.

Rob Orley photo

Rob Orley
Recognized by Jewish Federation of Detroit
“Tenacious”
 
Rob was the record-breaking 2023 and 2024 Annual Campaign Co-Chair and was able to directly impact our overall fundraising success.  From Major gifts solicitation to Endowment conversations to community-level Campaign strategy, Rob was involved in all aspects of fundraising.  He oversaw hundreds of volunteers to connect with over 10,000 donors.  Rob is tenacious, thorough and cares deeply.

Keshon Pate photo

Keshon Pate
Recognized by Say Detroit Play Center
“Amazing”
 
Keshon is an amazing youth who goes above and beyond to serve near peers in our organization through mentorship and tutoring. Keshon's passion for education and supporting others is a model for how we want our students to perform.

Jason Paulateer photo

Jason Paulateer
Recognized by Communities First, Inc.
“Consistent”
 
Jason impacts the lives of thousands of low to moderate income families through his service as board chair of Communities First, Inc. He supports and advocates for affordable housing, economic opportunity and community engagement through CFI’s work. He leverages his connections in the community development field to ensure the nonprofit’s long-term sustainability. Jason is committed, knowledgeable, resourceful and supportive.

Gina Rieck photo

Gina Rieck
Recognized by Macomb Community College Foundation
“Dedicated”
 
Gina Rieck has served on the Comedy & Cocktails committee since its inception in 2014. Her dedication, effort, and strong community network has helped raise over $500,000 to benefit the arts and cultural programs at Macomb Community College. She is a true-blue Macomb Monarch!

Deb Rosenthal photo

Deb Rosenthal
Recognized by Jewish Federation of Detroit
“Graceful”
 
Deb was the record-breaking 2023 and 2024 Annual Campaign Co-Chair and was able to directly impact our overall fundraising success. From Major gifts solicitation to Endowment conversations to community-level Campaign strategy, Deb was involved in all aspects of fundraising.  She oversaw hundreds of volunteers to connect with over 10,000 donors. Deb is dedicated, persistent and cares deeply.

Amy Roth photo

Amy Roth
Recognized by Focus:Hope
“Dependable”
 
Amy Roth is a volunteer that we can depend on to show up and go where the need is. We have a variety of volunteer opportunities that we offer here at Focus: Hope and Amy has participated in every area of our volunteerism. Her passion and consistency as one of our organization's exemplary volunteers shines through her dedication. Personally, Amy has made a footprint of participating in packing over 2500 food boxes for the senior that we serve in our food program.

April Royster photo

April Royster
Recognized by Advantage Health
“Benevolent”
 
April is a volunteer board member and contributes to Advantage Health by acting as the treasurer of the board providing vital financial insight. The Metro Detroit community, specifically those in Wayne County have benefited from her actions as we have 4 clinics serving over 10k Detroiters annually which would not be possible without her commitment to ensuring financial stability for the organization. Her personal traits that contribute to her effectiveness is her philanthropic nature, financial controls, accounting and audit and her championing nature for others.

Jonathan Rumley photo

Jonathan Rumley
Recognized by Detroit Historical Society
“Dependable”
 
Jonathan Rumley became a member of our board of trustees in 2021. Jon is a member of our Development Committee and a generous supporter. He volunteered to make donor ‘thank you’ calls last year on Giving Tuesday. Always generous with his time, talent, and treasures, he’s an ideal trustee. We can always count on Jon to be in our corner!

Kyle Stewart photo

Kyle Stewart
Recognized by Forgotten Harvest
“Tech-Savvy”
 
Kyle Stewart heard that there was a need for long-term and tech-savvy volunteers at Forgotten Harvest. He uses his technology background to assist with client intake at various food pantries. He serves the community rain, snow, or shine. Kyle told us, “I enjoy being able to give food to all who ask, regardless of their life circumstances. I started volunteering regularly two years ago, and it’s made a huge difference in my own life.”

Sister Mary Louise Stubbs DC photo

Sister Mary Louise Stubbs, DC
Recognized by Ascensions Providence Foundation
“Dedicated”
 
Sister Mary Louise Stubbs, DC, embodies the essence of service, compassion and hope. As a Daughter of Charity, she has served in ministries from hospitals to community development, assisting the vulnerable. Through International Project Services, Sister Mary Lou collaborates with Sisters worldwide securing resources for the marginalized. Grounded in efficacy, her ministry supports programs for health, education and self-sufficiency. Fostering connections with donors, she has overseen the funding of 663 ministry projects, transforming countless lives. She also guides the Ascension Providence Foundation and its Board.

Ed and Judy Stull photo

Ed and Judy Stull
Recognized by Pan Equus Animal Sanctuary
“Passionate”
 
Ed and Judy started Pan Equus Animal Sanctuary in 1994 to help abused, abandoned or neglected farm animals. In 2014 they finally became a 501(c)(3) non profit organization. Ed and Judy have dedicated their entire lives to providing forever homes for as many animals as they can. Most days they are up long before the sun and continue until after the sun goes down. And, of course, this is a 365 day a year commitment. Their hard work and dedication are inspiring to all who have visited the sanctuary. I am certain that anyone you would ask that has ever visited would tell you that their visit to the sanctuary was a wonderful experience. During the summer months the sanctuary is open to the public, on some days, for people to come and have a hands on experience with all of the furry residents including horses, cows, sheep, goats and more. I should also mention that there is no charge to visit, we do accept donations. The reason that there is no charge is because Ed and Judy want everyone, regardless of financial ability, to get the opportunity to meet these animals in person. Ed and Judy are by far the hardest working people that I have ever met. Ed continues to have a full-time job as well as take care of almost everything that needs to be done at the sanctuary. Judy is a retired veterinarian. She spends each and every day doing everything that she can to give these animals the best life possible. Their motto is "where passion meets purpose" and they live by that motto every day.

Elizabeth Tick photo

Elizabeth Tick
Recognized by Detroit Horse Power
“Connector”
 
Elizabeth is a phenomenal Detroit Horse Power volunteer that has helped us not only meet goals but exceed them through connections for gala sponsorships and in-kind donations items for raffles/auction, tabling at community events, volunteering at barn visit as a trainer, and sharing with network to grow our volunteer based. Elizabeth's stand out traits include caring, connector and thoughtful.

Olivia Visperas-McLaughlin photo

Olivia Visperas-McLaughlin
Recognized by Judson Center
“Invaluable”
 
Olivia Visperas-McLaughlin, a dedicated Trustee of Judson Center for over 18 years, is a strong advocate for the organization’s mission. As a member of the Marketing Committee, she was instrumental in shaping Judson Center’s recent rebranding efforts. Her innovative ideas, boundless energy, and passion have stood out as co-chair of the Judson Center Galas. Olivia’s vibrant enthusiasm and steadfast commitment make her an invaluable supporter and a driving force behind the success of our mission.

Michael Wheeler photo

Michael Wheeler
Recognized by Michigan Humane
“Engager”
 
Over the past two years, Michael has successfully brought a new group of volunteers together to support Michigan Humane events and engage community. His leadership, approach to bringing people together, listening and responding is what has made our Humane Leaders Board thrive and grow. The animals, staff and board of directors are forever grateful for your distinguished volunteerism.