Outstanding volunteers were honored on April 26 at the WCPL-Bob Kirby Branch, sponsored by Franklin Bank & Trust, WNKY News 40, American Legion Post 23, BGMU, and Drakes Creek Middle School Youth Services Center. Since 1990, the Volunteers of the Year Awards have continued to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes whose selfless contributions strengthen our community every day.
Anne Grubbs Spirit of Service Award: Lucena Davis
This award recognizes individuals who excel in quality, length, and spirit of service to others.
Lucena is recognized for her longstanding commitment and leadership in service to Community Education and the broader community. Her involvement began years before officially joining in 2006, and she has since faithfully served on both the Advisory Council and Board of Directors while playing a key role in major events. Her passion for service extends beyond Community Education, including instrumental involvement in founding Soldier Support of Bowling Green and creating opportunities for youth to give back. Through her leadership and collaboration, she has made a lasting impact on numerous organizations supporting children and families throughout the community.
Team Spirit Award: Trammel Creek Homemakers Club
This award will recognize those groups that work together to provide volunteer service in the community.
Trammel Creek Homemakers Club is recognized for its outstanding commitment to serving individuals and families across Allen County. Since forming in 2024, this dedicated group has worked tirelessly to address food insecurity and basic needs through initiatives like maintaining and stocking Blessing Boxes. They have also led outreach efforts, including preparing Thanksgiving meals, supporting school supply drives, and organizing community giveaways. Through strong teamwork, compassion, and partnerships, they continue to meet immediate needs while supporting long-term community well-being.
Rising Star Award: HOTEL INC Street Medicine Team
This award will recognize an individual or team who is new to volunteering and gaining momentum with your organization.
The team, made up of Dr. Randy Hansbrough, Kay Whitt-RN, Barb Tincher-PA, and Adriana Rosa-RN, is recognized for their vital role in revitalizing HOTEL INC’s street medicine program. Through weekly outreach and pop-up clinics, they provided more than 750 medical encounters in 2025 for individuals experiencing homelessness. During the most recent Room In The Inn season, they expanded to twice-weekly clinics, delivering essential care such as wound treatment, prescriptions, and chronic illness management. Their compassionate, judgment-free approach meets people where they are while also supporting the medical respite program to ensure continuity of care for those recovering from serious health conditions.
Young Leader Award: Ava Walker
This award will recognize an individual or team who is 18 years old or younger, providing volunteer service in the community.
Ava is recognized for her remarkable growth, leadership, and dedication as a volunteer with the Public Theatre of Kentucky. From a shy young participant, she has grown into a confident leader, now serving as Junior Board President. She contributes across all areas of the organization, from behind-the-scenes support to mentoring and leading younger participants with compassion. Through her outreach efforts, she has helped expand access to inclusive arts experiences throughout the community.
Spirit of Community Award: Wendy’s of Bowling Green
This award recognizes an organization or business that merits special recognition for volunteer service in the community.
Wendy’s of Bowling Green has made a lasting impact on our community through a wide range of sponsorships, partnerships, and hands-on support for local organizations and events. From education and youth programs to community outreach efforts like Stuff the Bus, HOTEL INC, and Stand for Children Day, their commitment to service reaches people of all ages. Their support also extends beyond the local level through national efforts like the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, helping create opportunities for children and families. Through their consistent generosity and community-minded leadership, Wendy’s truly exemplifies the spirit of this award.
Also Honored:
Elainna Baker, Hollyn Dale, Presley Scott, Dominic Sileo, Bir Altabbaa, Shellby Moore & Jessica Portman, Sarah Rice, Shigeko Sleeper, Angie Wilbanks-Anderson, LifeWorks for Autism, Room In The Inn, Safe Seats | Safe Kids, Rebecca & Ceili Waarvik, Warren County Regional Jail, Eric Cotton, Lauren Kummer, Bonny Laflin, and Chaylee Melton.
Heartfelt thanks to LifeSkills, Me & My Girls Catering, Oak Tree Awards and Recognition, Rickman Pottery, and the Warren County Public Library.
Volunteers in Action is made up of organizations that rely on volunteers. For more information on VIA or the Volunteers of the Year Awards, contact Joshua Smith at 270-842-4281 or jsmith@commed.us.
-submitted by Community Education
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