The Village of Montgomery government will once again offer its Volunteer of the Year Awards Program in 2026, aimed at recognizing and celebrating the exceptional contributions of local volunteers to the community. Volunteers are the lifeblood of any thriving community, selflessly dedicating their time, skills, and energy to making a positive impact on others’ lives. The Village is seeking nominations for individuals, organizations, and businesses that have gone above and beyond volunteering their time and talents to better the community.
Additionally, April 27, Montgomery approved a proclamation for Volunteer Month (April). Several Village volunteers were at the meeting to accept the proclamation, where they were recognized for their dedication to Village commissions and committees. The recognition was accompanied by a brief introduction from Community Engagement & Events coordinator Rosie Boeing, who touted the increase in volunteer interest over the past few years and highlighted the importance of the Volunteer of the Year Award program in recognizing outstanding volunteerism in and around the community.
Nominations for the Volunteer of the Year Awards are open to the public, inviting community members to put forward individuals (of all ages) or groups who have demonstrated outstanding dedication, leadership, and impact through their volunteer work. Nominees may be involved in various activities, from assisting with local events and beautification projects to volunteering with youth programs and senior services.
In 2025, the Village recognized individuals/groups for their impact on the community. Recipients included Dickson-Murst Farm Partners (Nonprofit Organization Impact), Alecia Wahl (Community Impact), Nancy Tranby (Heart of Community), Bob Mehrens (Youth Impact), and Harper Ault, Madelyn Gordon, Katelyn LaMonica, and Ava Yarbrough of the Peer Leaders at Special Stars, Inc. (Rising Star Awards). The recipients of the Volunteer of the Year Awards will be honored by the Village of Montgomery Board at the Monday, June 8 Board meeting at Village Hall (200 N. River St., Montgomery), where they will receive recognition for their contributions.
Nominations can be submitted online through the Village of Montgomery’s website, montgomeryil.org, through May 15. For more information about the Montgomery Volunteer of the Year Awards and available volunteer opportunities, visit the Village website or contact Rosie Boeing at 331-212-9008 or rboeing@montgomeryil.org.
—Village of Montgomery government