Greater Oregon City Watershed Council

Oregon City, Oregon

The Greater Oregon City Watershed Council works with public partners and private landowners to conserve, enhance, and protect the watersheds that surround us. Through this work, they develop and implement restoration plans, survey and assess stream health, and assist private and public landowners in enhancing riparian habitats. OCGWC’s mission is to conserve, enhance and protect the quality and ecological integrity of the watersheds by providing a cooperative forum to promote and facilitate integrated watershed management. Thank you to Cedomir Jesic, Marcia Sinclair, Alison Heimonitz, Sarah Miller, Danielle Folliard, Doug Neeley and governmental representatives Marcos Kubow and Jay Wilson.

Bob Cowgill

Elkins, West Virginia

Bob Cowgill has been involved with Operation Christmas Child since 1997 and has served for 21 years as an Area Network Coordinator covering Randolph, Pocahontas, Webster, Upshur, Tucker, and Barbour counties. Operation Christmas Child coordinates the distribution of gift boxes to children in various countries.

Christopher Boatwright

Elkins, West Virginia

Christopher Boatwright is a Lieutenant with the Elkins Police Department. His role includes daily responsibilities related to public safety and community engagement within the City of Elkins.

Markie Jeffries

Elkins, West Virginia

Markie Jeffries is a PEER Recovery Support Specialist who works in coordination with the Elkins Police Department to help individuals experiencing substance-use disorders connect with available treatment and recovery resources.

Tyler Chavers

Vancouver, Washington

After a distinguished career with Vancouver’s Police Department, Tyler Chavers chose to come out of retirement and join the Homeless Assistance and Resources Team (HART) to serve our city’s most vulnerable residents. Tyler consistently goes above and beyond, engaging with clients with empathy, connecting them to resources, and ensuring they are treated with dignity. He educates other city departments and community members about the realities of homelessness, fostering collaboration, and more compassionate responses citywide. Equally remarkable is his care for our team. Tyler understands the emotional and physical challenges of this work, sending inspirational notes, offering encouragement, and even sharing chocolate to brighten the day. Tyler’s presence elevates both the effectiveness and compassion of our department.

Kevin Veleke

Kennewick, Washington

Kevin Veleke is a community volunteer who has worked tirelessly to repair war memorials to honor fallen heroes whose stories have been lost to time and the elements. Kevin is honored for his unwavering commitment to restoring dignity and respect to our veterans’ memorials. His recent efforts to restore the Corporal Gerald Carmichael memorial, along with his leadership in organizing the rededication ceremony, truly reflect his dedication to going the extra mile. We hope his extraordinary efforts will inspire others to join him along the way.

Beth Kempf

Carlisle, Pennsylvania

Community CARES, under the steadfast leadership of Executive Director Beth Kempf, has long served as a beacon of hope and compassion for unhoused neighbors in Carlisle and Cumberland County, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to dignity, equity, and care through essential shelter, support, and pathways to stability. The tireless efforts of Community CARES and Beth Kempf provide critical services to our most vulnerable residents and foster a community-wide understanding of their challenges while exemplifying the values of service, compassion, and civic responsibility that define Carlisle.

Dr. Terri Brasfield of H.I.S. Ministries

Blytheville, Arkansas

“We are a community outreach serving Blytheville and Mississippi County as well as the bootheel of Missouri. Our mission is to Serve Him…Serve You!”

Beverly Ellis

Oregon City, Oregon

Any visitor to Oregon City would be hard-pressed to find a more welcoming individual than Beverly Ellis who serves as an ambassador at the landmark Municipal Elevator at the McLoughlin Promenade. Beverly courteously greets tourists, visiting students, daily commuters, and curious explorers alike; her warm presence and friendly smile have become a hallmark of the Oregon City experience. With a genuine care for others and a deep well of historical and practical knowledge, Beverly brings compassion, attentiveness, and heart to everything she does and reflects the best our city has to offer.

Beeline Bus Drivers

Payson, Arizona

The Beeline Bus drivers show what it means to go the extra mile when they serve and care for members of our community. They see the need around them and do not look away. They meet it with kindness and compassion, greeting passengers with respect and a warm smile. Many riders depend on the bus not just for transportation but for connection, and our drivers give that freely. They have offered coats, food, bikes, tents and other items from their own resources because they care for those they serve. Their hearts are big; their compassion is genuine; and their actions remind us that small gestures can change someone’s entire day.

Acts of Hope – Ms. Nicole Eskin

Blytheville, Arkansas

Acts Of Hope mission is to offer abortion alternatives and caring, non-judgmental support to individuals who are distressed by an unplanned pregnancy. The center offers a range of services, including free pregnancy tests, support for abortion recovery and infant loss, Bible studies, and mentoring through trained client advocates. We have an exceptional Fatherhood Program designed to nurture and empower fathers in a supportive environment. Acts of Hope also provides parents with parenting and birthing classes and encourages personal growth through the “Earn While You Learn” program, where clients can earn points for essential baby items by attending classes. Additionally, the organization promotes healthy decision-making among youth by offering sexual health education, helping them understand the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of their choices.

Blytheville Community Samaritan

Blytheville, Arkansas

Blytheville Community Samaritan Ministries was founded in 1990 by Rev. Lawrence Echols, Douglas Echols, and Eddie Echols. The purpose of this ministry is to provide a nucleus for the people of the Blytheville area and to improve conditions which hinder educational, social, economic, spiritual and community development. This is possible through implementation of a host of programs too numerous to list here.

Stephanie Dunn Ashley

Greenwich, Connecticut

American Red Cross, Metro New York North Chapter CEO, Stephanie Dunn Ashley has been a volunteer and advancing service member of the Cos Cob Fire Police Patrol and Greenwich Emergency Medical Service to maintain her status as a firefighter and EMT and is President of the Board of Directors of the CCFPP. Stephanie co-chairs the September 11th Remembrance Service at Cos Cob Park in Greenwich, is a member of the Town of Greenwich Alarm Appeals Board, and a member of the Greenwich Hibernian Society.

Ruth “Betty” Durazo

Douglas, Arizona

Ruth “Betty” Durazo has been a proud member of the Douglas community since childhood, having immigrated from Sonora, Mexico, at the age of 6 and completing her education through Douglas public schools before earning a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Arizona. She and her family operate two successful local businesses—Border Taco, established in 2003, and Chatitas, established in 2007. She remains active in the community by supporting local events and assisting her church. This recognition is offered in honor and loving memory of her father, Francisco Durazo, a respected community figure who dedicated his life to helping others.

Sam Romeo

Greenwich, Connecticut

Sam Romeo is honored for his 45 years of service for the State of Connecticut and the Town of Greenwich including: 20 years Green, RTM-District Chairman, Land Use Chairman; 12 years Greenwich Communities -presently Chairman; 34 years GEMS (Greenwich Emergency Services) – presently Audit Chairman; former Executive V.P of the Green, Boy Scouts of America; past Resident Advocate- State of CT – Ombudsman; Co-founder of N. Mianus Safe Walking Route (complete sidewalk from N.Mianus school to Eastern Middle School); Chairman of E. Sector CAPP (Citizens and Police Partnership); Chairman of Arch Street and bridge redesign road project; implemented “lock-box” system for fire and police after Cos Cob School fire; appointed Selectman’s Sewer Task Force – negotiated sewers for Millbrook, N. Mianus, Cos Cob, and Hillcrest Park; Co-founder N. Mianus Child Care Center -1st in town; 15 years Host of the “Greenwich Matters” WGCH radio show; 34 years President /owner, packaging supply business; married 47 years (Mary), 5 children and 10 grandchildren.

Margaret White

Douglas, Arizona

Margaret White, City Librarian/Library Manager, brings over 25 years of experience across public, academic, and special libraries and has contributed to the profession through nationwide, regional, and countywide organizations. Her leadership emphasizes staff empowerment, independence, and excellence, which has helped the library earn first place for Customer Service in the annual “Best of Douglas” competition. This award reflects both community appreciation and the library team’s commitment to providing exceptional programs, collections, and services to all Douglas residents.

Ida Pedregó

Douglas, Arizona

Ida Pedregó, is widely known for her generosity, leadership, and commitment to uplifting her community while balancing work. Her career spans roles as a teacher, school counselor, Girl Scout leader, coach, community organizer, and now President of Southeast Arizona Federal Credit Union and Secretary of the Industrial Development Authority of Douglas, contributing significantly to local economic and community development. Owner of Illusions Boutique, former president of the Douglas Merchants Association, Ida continues to champion small business, downtown revitalization, and community pride throughout the border region.

Meals on Wheels

Payson, Arizona

The volunteers of the Meals on Wheels Program in Payson truly embody the spirit of “going the extra mile.” Every day, they deliver far more than a hot meal; they bring comfort, companionship, and peace of mind to some of our most vulnerable residents. Through their dedication, they ensure that homebound seniors are nourished, cared for, and reminded that they are valued members of this community. Their kindness and commitment strengthen the fabric of Payson, demonstrating how simple acts of service can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of others.

Veronica Abreu

Waterbury, Connecticut

Veronica Abreu volunteers a few days a week at the Waterbury Senior Center, assisting with their lunch program. She greets all the senior center members with a warm smile and takes the time to engage in meaningful conversation during meal service to brighten their day. Her cheerful attitude and genuine interest in the well-being of the seniors have made her a beloved presence at the center. Whether she’s offering a helping hand or simply listening to someone’s story, Veronica’s compassion and dedication make a lasting impact on everyone she meets.

Doreen Biolo

Waterbury, Connecticut

Doreen Biolo has had a remarkable career spanning over 36 years in the Waterbury Public School System. Currently, she serves as the Chief Financial Officer, having advanced through the ranks since beginning her career as an Accountant I in 1988. Her extensive expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and resource management has been crucial in ensuring the district’s long-term sustainability. A proud native of Waterbury, Doreen is a graduate of Wilby High School and Post University. Her strong connections to the community are reflected not only in her local education but also in her steadfast commitment to giving back. She has developed trusted relationships with staff, administrators, city officials, and legislators, earning a reputation as a respected and collaborative leader. Doreen is also a passionate advocate for the school business profession, generously sharing her knowledge and championing the essential role that financial leadership plays in student achievement. She exemplifies how school business officials bridge the gap between finance and education, making decisions that empower students, teachers, and families to succeed.

The Lewes Beach Patrol

Lewes, Delaware

The City of Lewes proudly nominated the Lewes Beach Patrol as our “Extra Mile Heroes” for Extra Mile Day 2025 in recognition of their extraordinary service and dedication throughout the 2025 summer season.

The Lewes Beach Patrol, under the leadership of Captain Strohm Edwards, goes above and beyond to ensure the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of all who visit our beaches. Their commitment to vigilance, swift response, and community engagement exemplifies the true meaning of going the extra mile.

Highlights of the 2025 Season: 35 rescues, 99 medical responses, 1,595 jellyfish stings treated, 40 reunited families, and 47 junior lifeguards trained.

East Point City Volunteer Coaches

East Point, Georgia

These outstanding coaches embody what it means to serve their teams and community selflessly. Through their example, they are shaping the next generation of athletes and leaders. These coaches have gone above and beyond to make a lasting impact on our athletes and community. Their dedication, positive energy, and commitment to teaching life lessons through sports make them true Extra Mile Change Makers.

Thank you to our amazing coaches: Harvey Glenn, Phil “Speedy” Jackson, Jay Moore, Johnathan “Bop” Williams, Joseph Smith, Darren “Boot” Stokes, Tony Smith, Ayavis Womble, Billy D’haiti, Devin Hall, Cynkethia Sheffield, Josh McKinney, Xavier Jennings, D Daniels, Harmon Favors, James Miller, Aaron Hill, Demetrius Ringfield, Byron Jones, Jeremy Hughley, Ray Wilks, Akeen Scruggs, Darius Williams, Nathan Turnipseed, Na’im Wilson, Sean Finney, Dontavious Baccus, Evan Parker, Naporro Roland, Eddward Simmons, Zach Wolfe, Keedar Whittle, Troy Williams, Josh Mckinney, Jewryl Rowell, Jeffery Dewberry, Rashard Green, Terence Cosby, Brian Johnson, Torrian Knott, Rayshuan Harmon, Cecil Myrick, Rashard Francis, Gabby Kariuki, Calvin Milbry, Justin Henderson, Quinton Green, Sherrod Cook, Shaun Heard, Robert Smith, Samuel Young Jr., Dre Moton, Darius Lyons, Dontavious Williams, Jerome Green, Donterrious Dorsey, Rod Williams, and Douglas Hendrixx.

Richard Higgins

Fort Dodge, Iowa

Richard Higgins was a devoted member of our community who passed away August 27, 2025. Richard demonstrated a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, attending City Council meetings for almost 20 years with dedication and deep concern for the welfare of the city and its residents. Richard sought to serve the community through multiple campaigns for City Council, driven by a sincere desire to make Fort Dodge a better place for all who call it home. The city celebrates his dedication, service and lasting impact on our community.

Daniel Pharmacy

Fort Dodge, Iowa

Daniel Pharmacy has been a staple in the downtown community for 62 years. John Daniel and his family have been operating the pharmacy since 1963 and pride themselves by helping people and making a difference in their lives. The owners have participated in various community events such as Frontier Days and created a John and Margo Daniel Scholarship fund to financially assist pharmacy students. They treat everyone like family and take the time to care and know the customers by name. Our community is blessed to have them!

Mayor Matt Bemrich

Fort Dodge, Iowa

Matt Bemrich got his start in local government by volunteering to serve on a panel that recommended switching from a mayor form of government to a city manager form. He was elected and served four years on City Council and 16 years as Mayor of the City of Fort Dodge. He’s volunteered for many activities and boards such as Groundhog Days at the zoo, reading to kids at schools and recently serving on the Friendship Haven Board of Directors. His unwavering dedication to city government exemplifies the very best of public service and community spirit.

Stephanie Saterfiel

Hayden, Idaho

Stephanie continues her years of commitment to Hayden and to the city’s arts commission, currently serving as the commission’s chair. She distinguished herself most recently by spearheading all details that led to creating and installing a statue honoring Ron McIntire in the same park as his family’s namesake. Stephanie’s commitment to our community through art that exemplifies and enhances the Hayden community are commendable and epitomize being recognized as an Extra Mile Hero.

The Learning Network of Clinton County

Frankfort, Indiana

Our local Extra Mile Hero is The Learning Network of Clinton County. The team: Melinda Grismer, Learning Network Director; Abbie Martin, Adult Education Coordinator; Louisa Hoffman, Summer Kids Workshops Coordinator.

Jim Dunn

Waterbury, Connecticut

Jim Dunn has generously filled his time volunteering since his retirement from full-time work. Jim has been volunteering in the Brass City for many years. He began volunteering as a Choices Counselor at the Western CT Area Agency on Aging for three years. At the same time, he began volunteering for New Opportunities of Waterbury as a Money Manager, which he continues to do. Jim then began tutoring with Literacy Volunteers of Waterbury as a Basic Literacy volunteer and in their Citizenship test readiness program. He currently volunteers at Griffin Hospital in their Ambassador program. Jim is also currently volunteering at the Waterbury Senior Center. Jim is an integral part of the Farm Bag distribution, a monthly food distribution service for our most vulnerable citizens, our seniors. Jim always has a smile on his face, and our seniors look forward to seeing him. The Farm Bag could not run without Jim’s help. The city of Waterbury is very fortunate to have Jim as a volunteer.

Frank Colletti

Overland Park, Kansas

Research shows communities that are better prepared for disasters respond and recover from a catastrophic event quicker and more efficiently. Frank Colletti has dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours demonstrating his leadership directly enhancing Overland Park’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). From re-writing the overall CERT training curriculum to drawing on his previous military experience to serve as a team lead, Frank is an invaluable asset to the overall preparedness of the city. Frank has also dedicated many hours revamping the city’s Crowd Manager’s course for large events. This program provides the city with qualified volunteers to work large-scale events serving as a force multiplier for First Responders.

Vince Sabia

Overland Park, Kansas

Vince Sabia has dedicated numerous hours providing leadership and training to Overland Park’s volunteer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). In addition to serving as a team lead for large scale city-planned events, Vince has developed the city’s Amateur Radio Communications Group. This group provides an alternative communications resource should the city experience a catastrophic communications failure or during a disaster where communications may become challenging. This group participates in all city events and assists with validation of the city’s tornado sirens during monthly tests.

Citizens Promoting Community

Elkins, West Virginia

Citizens Promoting Community is a group of like-minded citizens whose goal is to create community. Throughout the summer, they held numerous events and raised around $3,000 for local non-profits. They have raised over $6,500.00 since starting last year. Their hard work and dedication help keep these organizations focused on their mission.

ASHLEY & JASON ALDRICH

Barre City, Vermont

Ashley and Jason have served our community through the Barre Youth Sports Association (BYSA) Football program, having dedicated countless hours to our youth. Both Ashley and Jason have served on the board in leadership positions, and Jason also connects with the children on the field as a head coach. The time and dedication they have put into this program is priceless to our next generation.

Oregon City Parks Foundation

Oregon City, Oregon

The members of the Oregon City Parks Foundation may come from different backgrounds and experiences, but they all share the same passion for our parks as Keith and Lila Kelly did. The Parks Foundation honors Keith and Lila, by holding these long-time park volunteers as our standard bearers. The members, Stephanie Phan, Karla Laws, Damon Mabee, Patty Webb, Didi Dahlsrud, Roger Fowler-Thias believe that a vibrant, diverse, and well-maintained parks system is a key component in the livability of Oregon City. These projects include pollinator beds on the McLoughlin Promenade, ivy removal, summer camp fund, and Atkinson Park and the Buena Vista Club restoration to name few. Their tireless efforts make Oregon City a great place to live, play and work.

Jeannette Klein

Lawton, Oklahoma

Jeannette Klein is recognized for her outstanding volunteerism with the Children United Playground project. Her generosity of time and effort has made a lasting impact, helping create an inclusive and welcoming space for children and families in the community.

Max Sasseen

Lawton, Oklahoma

Max Sasseen is recognized for his dedicated work with the McMahon Auditorium Authority and his valuable contributions to the Children United Playground project. His commitment and leadership have helped enhance community spaces that foster creativity, inclusion, and connection for all.

Joslyn Wood

Lawton, Oklahoma

Joslyn Wood is recognized for her outstanding coordination of Park-o-Treat and Steps Under Stars and Stripes, two events that brought the community together in fun and meaningful ways. Her dedication and organizational efforts helped ensure both events were engaging, well-attended, and enjoyable for all participants.

Dr. Larry DeVese

Westerville, Ohio

The late Dr. Larry DeVese served the Westerville community for nearly 30 years. He was a beloved and devoted husband, father, son, dentist, friend, and servant leader who went the Extra Mile each and every day in service to others. He made charitable donations to many local causes through his private dental practices, including A Smile By DeVese, which he opened in 2003, and he volunteered his time and talents throughout his tenure on many local boards and community organizations, including WeRise for Greater Westerville, The Westerville Education Foundation, and, most recently, The Ohio Dental Association Board Committees and Councils. From those who knew him best, “Dr. DeVese’s presence was a gift, his love a blessing, and his legacy will live on in all who had the joy of knowing him.”

Helen Acker

Oneida, New York

Oneida honors Helen Acker for her exceptional dedication and service, including her work with the Oneida Memorial Association, as Chairwoman of the Oneida Afterburner Committee, and for personally securing the donations that made possible the City’s spectacular fireworks display. We honor Helen embodying the spirit of going the extra mile.

Oscar Hernandez Ayala

Yerington, Nevada

Mr. Hernandez Ayala goes above and beyond for Yerington in many ways. He is a small business owner, a volunteer and a leader in every sense of the word. A naturalized citizen, Mr. Hernandez Ayala takes a great deal of pride in our community and is often seen organizing and volunteering at local events, especially those that benefit our youth. He can be found every year at the Night in the Country music festival, Yerington High School dinners, the Lyon County Fair and Rodeo and several other events. He does so without ever drawing attention to himself. His intentions are pure and grounded in his loyalty to faith, family and community.

Pastor Orlando Pabon

Bridgeton, New Jersey

We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and recognize Pastor Orlando Pabon for serving the Bridgeton community through his ministry Los Ninos de Cristo. Pastor Pabon uses his own resources to provide food to the homeless population Monday through Friday from 1:00-2:00 p.m. at the Bridgeton Riverfront Walk. His service provides hope, resources, and dignity to those in need.

Brandi White- Mayor’s Student Advisory

Brick Township, New Jersey

Under the direction of Coordinator Brandi White, the Mayor’s Student Advisory has become a shining example of youth leadership and community service in Brick Township. Composed of students from both local high schools, the group not only volunteers at community events but also helps create them, such as the Prom for Senior Citizens, Brick Hero Awards, and the Brick Birthday Party. They also take initiative on important causes like mental health awareness and substance misuse prevention through programs such as Project Sticker Shock, Red Ribbon Week, and the Great American Smokeout. Their ongoing support of community efforts like PBA Toys for Tots, Stockings for Soldiers, and Relay for Life demonstrates their commitment to going the extra mile in service, leadership, and compassion.

Caroline McCook

Sherwood, Arkansas

Caroline McCook was selected as an extra-mile change maker because she sacrificed countless hours of her personal time during the hot summer walking door-to-door to collect signatures for the Act4Sherwood ballot initiative for the northern part of Sherwood, AR. She worked hard alongside her fellow volunteers listed, also including others such as Tom Brooks, Monica Treat, and Tab Townsell. This dedicated volunteer group gained the necessary signatures to finally put a local issue on our ballot to give north Sherwood voters an opportunity to vote for economic change.

John Lolla

Brick Township, New Jersey

John Lolla was selected as our Extra-Mile Change Maker for his unwavering dedication and commitment to Brick Township since 1984. His exceptional service, pride in his work, and dependable “can-do” attitude make him an invaluable part of the team. He does it all, from keeping township buildings clean and functioning, to building and remodeling properties, setting up for events, and even DJ’ing them. John consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every task is completed properly and efficiently, embodying what it means to serve with excellence.

Jim Powers (third from left)

Waterford | Michigan

Jim is an excellent example of a citizen who goes the extra mile because he volunteers with Waterford Youth Assistance for the Bucket of Love program, reading to elementary students, packs backpacks for kids, is a member of the Elks, Shriners and Free Masons, serves on multiple Township Boards and Committees, hosts multiple shows and radio programs with Media Network, and raises funds on an annual basis for numerous community organizations with the Zeppelin Peace Run in honor of his late wife. Jim is frequently teased about learning how to spell the word “no” because this word does not exist in Jim’s vocabulary. This is why he was selected.

Anne Mobley (second from left in picture)

Waterford | Michigan

Anne is such a dedicated volunteer that the staff at our Senior Center often tease Anne, that they don’t think she is ever at her house because she is always giving back to the community! She leads the Comfort Makers group, making blankets to donate and delivers them, works every senior luncheon cleaning dishes and serving meals, volunteers in the children’s area of our Harvest Happening annual festival, faithfully picks up donations of toiletries and eyeglasses to deliver to the proper organizations, and works every election in Waterford Township. This is why she was selected to be an Extra-Mile Hero!

Laurie Matthews

Westfield, Massachusetts

Laurie Matthews (left) was recognized as an “Extra Mile Heroes” Volunteers of the Year for Westfield. The heroes are joined by Westfield Mayor Michael McCabe who hosted the award ceremony.

Danny Nason

Westfield, Massachusetts

Danny Nason (right) was recognized as an “Extra Mile Heroes” Volunteers of the Year for Westfield. The heroes are joined by Westfield Mayor Michael McCabe who hosted the award ceremony.

Larry Allen

Auburn, Maine

This year’s honoree, Larry Allen, serves as Transportation Director & Transit Program Manager at the Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments. Larry has shown incredible leadership and dedication in overseeing the Androscoggin Transportation Resource Center (ATRC) and the citylink bus system—especially through a major transition in local transit service. His professionalism, commitment, and care for the people who rely on public transportation have made a lasting impact on Auburn and our region.

Hannah Godfrey-Cary (far left in picture)

Waterford | Michigan

Hannah is a great example of someone who goes the extra mile because she generously gives her time to a variety of youth organizations, including Waterford Corsairs Youth Football & Cheerleading, Waterford Youth Assistance, middle school wrestling, and summer ball with Parks and Recreation. She also coaches high school girls’ softball at Waterford Mott High School. Hannah was selected because of her outstanding community service.