On Saturday, February 1, Palatine Park District recognized the tremendous efforts of their volunteer organizations. These volunteers stem from affiliate groups and associated organizations of the District. Volunteers were chosen by each organization for their service during the 2019 calendar year and were acknowledged during a luncheon held at Cotillion Banquets, 360 S. Creekside Drive, in Palatine.
The event is coordinated by Palatine Park District Volunteer Coordinator Alissa DePue. According to DePue, “Palatine Park District volunteers add great value to our community.” The District is proud to be able to offer this special luncheon to celebrate and champion the efforts of our volunteers.
The 18 individuals named 2019 Volunteer of the Year by their organization are:
- Rick Grimes, Palatine Stables
- Laura Lumb, Partners for Our Communities
- Anne Stein, Palatine Pickleball Club
- Amy White, Palatine Gymnastics Club
- Heather McDermott, Palatine Children’s Chorus
- Vic Babal, Rolling Meadows Renegades Hockey
- Sue Montgomery, Bike Palatine Club
- Janet Borre, Palatine Tiger Sharks Swim Team
- Kristen Cerer, Palatine Youth Theatre
- Chris deVera, PAFA Spirit
- Rich Zilinsky, Palatine Youth Baseball/Softball
- Tom Hermanson, Theatre Nebula
- Greg Elter, Palatine Amateur Football Association
- Chris Wienke, Penguins Lacrosse
- Joe Saccomanno, Palatine Hill Golf Association
- Nancy Kane, Palatine Township Senior Citizens Council
- Jim Burke, Palatine Celtic Soccer Club
- Alice Rosenberg, Palatine Historical Society
New for 2019, the District wanted to continue to raise the bar for excellent volunteerism – the Spotlight Awards were introduced as an opportunity to shed light on the exemplary service of two dedicated individuals. Jim Burke and Mike Herron were the first recipients of the award for their accomplishments with Palatine Celtic Soccer Club and Palatine Community Baseball/Softball.
In addition to the Spotlight Award, the District inducted Mike Pastore, of Penguins Lacrosse, into its Honor Roll. Pastore’s tenure with Penguins Lacrosse dates back to the creation of the program. In 2013 he was one of the original founders and has represented the organization inside and out ever since.
To be considered for the Honor Roll, a volunteer must have held a leadership position in an organization (or organizations) for a significant number of years. Honor Roll members must also have demonstrated an outstanding contribution to their organization. Annually, the Honor Roll Committee reviews all past and current volunteers of the year and provides recommendations to the Palatine Park District Board of Commissioners for Honor Roll consideration.
The Volunteer Honor Roll committee includes Donelda Danz, Alissa DePue, Linda Fleming, Dennis Hanson, Jim Lennon, Josh Ludolph, Carolyn Mangold, Gus Panos, and Don Torgersen.
The District is thrilled to have such an empowering group of people to celebrate each year. With the assistance of the volunteer program, the District can provide opportunities that stretch far and beyond their traditional reach.