We are pleased to announce the recipients of our annual awards. Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations. While we cannot recognize every nominee, we humbly acknowledge all who helped Reach this past year and have lifted us to new heights. Following are our three 2019 honorees:
Brenda Fromm of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America: Volunteer of the Year
This past year was not Brenda’s first year volunteering with Reach, but her efforts in 2018 were especially monumental. As an Allianz Life Insurance employee, she organized her co-workers to join her in volunteering for us on three separate occasions over the course of the year. Not only did dozens of new people learn about and begin supporting Reach, but these corporate volunteer hours also equated to over $3,000 for Reach.
This involvement also led Allianz leaders to invite Reach to apply for a grant. We were thrilled to receive a two-year grant, totaling $30,000 ($15,000 each year).
Additionally, Brenda spent an entire 10-hour day volunteering at our Game Farm Gala in October.
Brenda leads with her heart, and Reach is grateful for her commitment.
Dennis Carpenter and BOB FM: Community Partner of the Year
The owner of BOB FM, Dennis Carpenter, instructed his staff to step up their support for Reach in 2018. Instead of simply stepping, BOB FM skyrocketed its assistance, donating over $100,000 in air time alone, and lending voice talent for our advertisements. The station ran multiple, promotional commercials for Reach during 2018, over 2,500 in total…all at no cost to Reach. BOB FM personnel offered helpful guidance and were extremely flexible to work with.
Dennis, himself, also participated in the Game Farm Gala and personally contributed financially to Reach. His fierce advocacy for Reach has made a lasting impact and has introduced countless radio listeners to our supports and services.
Larissa Beck: Matthew Smith Memorial Award
Approaching her 10-year anniversary with Reach this summer, Larissa Beck, our Community Living Program Manager, is being honored by her co-workers with this special award.
One wrote, “As a co-worker, Larissa is always eager to lend a hand…or an ear…whatever the case may be. She welcomes all new staff members with her kind, friendly demeanor and generously offers support and encouragement.”
As a leader, Larissa respects everyone equally, allowing them to take ownership of their own situations, and has a gift of empowering others in a way that capitalizes on their strengths. She is capable of being firm and holding others accountable when needed, and her consistent fairness is a sign of trust that challenges those around her to reach higher and farther.
As an advocate for her fellow human beings, she is passionate and compassionate. Larissa personifies Reach’s mission and is dedicated to serving others, making us proud to recognize her in this way.