City recognizes local volunteers and service leaders

Philadelphia volunteers and national service members who have made a positive impact in their communities were recently honored during the 10th annual Mayor’s Day of Service Recognition Awards Ceremony.

“I want to acknowledge the time, effort, and dedication of every single person who gave back in service, especially those who supported our City’s COVID-19 recovery and vaccination efforts,” said Mayor Jim Kenney. “This is why today, I’m pleased to recognize these exceptional Philadelphia volunteers and national service members, who work tirelessly to make their communities better.”

The city’s Office of Civic Engagement and Volunteer Service (MOCEVS) received over 200 nominations that highlight the incredible work and service that takes place in Philadelphia. Each nomination shared the story of an individual who has given back to their community, made a positive impact, and affected change in others.

Volunteers were nominated by family, friends, and members of the public in five award categories: Mayor’s Philly Hero Award, Mayor’s Youth Hero Award (age 18 and under), Mayor’s Distinguished National Service Award, Mayor’s Distinguished National Service Alumni Award, and the Greater Philadelphia Corporate Volunteer Council’s Distinguished Corporate Volunteer and Distinguished Corporate Skills-Based Volunteer.

“This high number of nominations speaks so much to the spirit of volunteerism and service within our city. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination, elevating the service heroes in your lives and communities,” said Romana-Lee Akiyama, Director of the Office of Public Engagement.

MOCEVS also introduced a new award category — the Chief Service Officer Award — which recognizes Philadelphians who have made unique contributions to the city through collaborative service.

“Today’s event is truly a culmination of all of the work that happens in the Mayor’s Office of Civic Engagement and Volunteer Service. This is our opportunity to honor some of our unsung heroes of the service community,“ said Amanda Gamble, Chief Service Officer for the City of Philadelphia. “We hope that you walk away feeling inspired to show up and participate in your community in a way that speaks to you.”

2022 honorees:

The Mayor’s Philly Hero Award recognizes Philadelphians who have made an impact in their communities.

• Dr. Michelle Nelson
• Michael LiPuma
• Pheng Seng

The Mayor’s Youth Hero Award (age 18 and under), honors youth who have made an impact in their communities through service.

• Aisha Morales
• Ramier Jones
• Makayla Coleman

The Mayor’s Distinguished National Service Award recognizes individuals currently serving in AmeriCorps or Senior Corps programs.

• Jada D. Washington
• Josy Charles
• Julie Gang

The Mayor’s Award for Distinguished National Service Alumni is awarded to alumni of national service programs who have continued to lead a life of service.

• Carlos Acosta
• Erin O’Dell
• Gail De Veaux

The Greater Philadelphia Corporate Volunteer Council’s Distinguished Corporate Volunteer recognizes corporate employee volunteers.

• Courtney Allen
• Rebecca McCormick
• Noel Abejo

The Chief Service Officer Award recognizes Philadelphians who have made unique contributions to the city through collaborative service.

• Anna Perng
• Tarik Khan