Joliet nonprofit volunteers honored at Philanthropy Recognition Awards Brunch

Volunteers at Joliet-area nonprofits were honored Saturday at the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Brunch.

The brunch was held at the Renaissance Center in Joliet “on behalf of the Arkas Restaurant Group,” according to the invitation letter.

Kristi Mulvey, executive director of the JJC Foundation, served as the event’s master of ceremonies.

Karen Isberg Sorbero led the national anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. Clyne Namuo, president of Joliet Junior College, was the guest of honor.

We believe that by acknowledging these individuals, we can inspire others to contribute and continue to foster a spirit of generosity and community support.”

—  Elina Triantou, Renaissance Center Banquets in Joliet

In the invitation letter, Elina Triantou of Renaissance Center Banquets in Joliet said the goal was to “bring together nonprofits and celebrate the outstanding efforts of those who have made a difference.”

Triantou also said in the letter that the brunch provided an opportunity for nonprofits to honor someone “who has made a significant impact through their time, talents or treasures.”

[ Joliet Visitation and Aid Society ‘quietly’ helping residents for 135 years ]

“Whether it be a dedicated volunteer, a talented board member or a generous donor, we want to recognize these extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond for the Joliet community,” Triantou said. “We believe that by acknowledging these individuals, we can inspire others to contribute and continue to foster a spirit of generosity and community support.”

Susie Stockwell, a wedding specialist at Renaissance Center Banquets, said the brunch served as a great opportunity for nonprofits to “get together and tell their stories about what they do.”

“And they could each nominate someone from the organization who does outstanding work In the community for their organization,” Stockwell said.

Joliet-area nonprofits honored

The following nonprofits and volunteers were recognized at Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Brunch:

Brats, Bourbon and Brews

For more information, visit bratsbourbonbrews.org.

CASA of River Valley: Jen Lynch

For more information, visit casaofrivervalley.org.

Holly Club of Joliet: Pam Kaumeyer

For more information, visit hollyclubjoliet.org.

Illinois Rock & Roll Museum: Dan Philip

For more information, visit roadtorock.org.

Joliet Latino Economic Development Association: Alex Paramo

For more information, visit jolietleda.org.

Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care: Dr. JD Wright

For more information, visit lightways.org.

Lightways Hospice Guild: Jean Roach

For more information, visit lightways.org/guild.

Rialto Square Theatre volunteers: Jen Howard

For more information, visit rialtosquare.com.

Saint Joseph Auxiliary: Patti Kanellakes and Dorothy Stanfield

The Salvation Army Joliet Corps: Novel Woods

For more information, visit centralusa.salvationarmy.org/joliet.

Three Hierarchs Philoptochos Society: Nancy Griparis

For more information, visit three-hierarchs-philoptochos.square.site.

Visitation and Aid Society of Joliet: Sue Peyla

For more information, visit visitationandaidsocietyjoliet.org.

Zonta Club of Joliet Area: Dr. Patricia Miller

For more information, visit jolietzonta.org.