The Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley honored six exceptional volunteers at its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch on Saturday, April 26^th. Before the brunch, a special ceremony was held to honor the Servant’s Heart Award recipients, recognizing six outstanding individuals: Annabelle Himes, Chantal Jones, Colleen Muckridge, Ron Cohen, Ron Sackett, and Shirley Doughty.

The Servant’s Heart Award, initially established in 2006 to honor volunteer Barbara Clark, recognizes volunteers who have made significant contributions to the Mission. This year’s honorees have demonstrated unwavering support and compassionate efforts, profoundly impacting the lives of those served by the Mission.

Event Highlights:

• Servant’s Heart Honoree Ceremony: The honorees were celebrated in a special ceremony in the Mission’s Dining Hall.
• Volunteer Appreciation Brunch: Held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the Mission’s Chapel & Dining Hall, the brunch was attended by current and potential volunteers and their guests, celebrating the spirit of volunteerism.

About the Honorees:

• Annabelle Himes (Canfield, OH): Annabelle’s dedication and heartfelt commitment to the Mission are evident in her countless volunteer hours and corporate giving through Heroes and Tiaras, bringing joy to children at the shelter.
• Chantal Jones (Canfield, OH): Chantal’s generosity and enthusiasm have significantly impacted the Mission, from serving meals to organizing events and recruiting new volunteers.
• Colleen Muckridge (McDonald, OH): Colleen’s expertise in gift processing and her cheerful personality have been invaluable to the development department, ensuring efficient donation tracking.
• Ron Cohen (New Middletown, OH): Ron’s leadership as President of the Board of Directors and his multifaceted support have advanced the Mission and helped build the new shelter.
• Ron Sackett (Hubbard, OH): Ron’s unique volunteer efforts, including collecting and crushing cans for donations, have resulted in significant contributions to the Mission’s General Fund.
• Shirley Doughty (Girard, OH): Shirley’s patience and compassion shine through as she assists clients with navigating the computer for job and housing searches. As well as helping serve meals and stuffing envelopes.

The Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley extends heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers for their dedication and support. Their selfless service continues to inspire and uplift the community.

Past RMMV Servant’s Heart Award recipients include: • Barbara Clark (2006) • Keith McCombs (2009) • Debbie Smith () • Sandy Hewitt (2009) • Edith Jackson (2013) • Tom & Danielle Gregory (2013) • Dave Wyant (2013) • Sharon Sanders (2013) • Gary Reel (2013) • Brian Simpson (2013) • Dorothy Grappo (2013) • Cal Gungle (2013) • Rick Blair III (2016) • Madison Goske (2016) • Kristi Schmitz (2016) • Becky Long (2016) • Sharon Moser (2016) • Sandi Love & Jacci Bradley (2016) • Jo Anne Brashen (2022) • Beth Miller (2022) • Ginny Teneyeck (2022) • Marissa Volpini (2022) • Debbie Yurchison (2022) • Susan Blake  (2024) • Jessica Emaus (2024) • Angela Grymberg(2024) •John Keenan (2024) •  Bill & Therese Olesky (2024) • Chuck Parry (2024) •Marge Pollock (2024) •  Gayle Whetson (2024)