2024 Volunteer Recognition Awards
AWARDS AND NOMINEES
Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award
Winner: Ren Baldwin
Nominated by: St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation
As a former St. Joseph Public Schools staff member, Ren's knowledge of the district is invaluable to the St. Joseph Public Schools Foundation. Ren has served as both Treasurer and President of the Lions Club. He continues to serve the community on projects that support services aimed at helping people with sight and hearing deficiencies, as well as supporting services to Juvenile Diabetes organizations. Ren is also involved with Camp Leo, a residential overnight camp for children 10-17 with disabilities from Southwest Michigan and helps lead the Lions’ Annual Arts and Craft Show. He previously served as Treasurer of the Michigan Association of Computer Users in Learning, and has served 30+ years as a Board Member, President and Treasurer.
Finalists: Bernice Mason, Larry Wozniak
Judge Susan L. Dobrich Volunteer Leadership Award for Cass County
Winner: Sara Hartsell
Nominated by: Midwest Energy & Communications
Sara has served as a champion for Relay for Life in Cass County and for the Relay for Life team at Midwest Energy & Communications as its Chair. She has a heart for her community and exemplifies that through her work-related volunteering but also as a volunteer on her own time. She’s a “Band Mom”, helps with the 4H club, and has volunteered for San’s Workshop and the Pet Refuge. Her volunteer efforts include Trunk or Treats, blood drives, movie nights and helping to write school grants.
Finalists: Roseann Marchetti, Walter Swann
VOLUNTEER UNITED YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
BERRIEN COUNTY - WINNER
Sawyer Lundberg – Niles High School
CASS COUNTY - WINNER
Addyson Wrigley – Edwardsburg High School
VAN BUREN COUNTY - WINNER
Tiyanna Covington – Hartford High School
