Mayor Sachs is committed to notifying individuals of volunteer opportunities as they arise. Whether it’s through community events, organizations, or local initiatives, there are numerous ways to get involved and make a difference. For instance, Mayor Sachs encouraged everyone to participate in Earth Day 2021 by supporting environmental protection initiatives. From planting trees to reducing single-use plastic, there are countless ways to celebrate and protect our planet for future generations. Sachs also takes the extra step to highlight the inspiring stories of dedicated volunteers who selflessly give their time and energy to support others. She celebrated fifty years of service by Monsignor Thomas Skindeleski, whose dedication to serving the community has made a profound impact on countless lives. Additionally, she recognizes the contributions of volunteers like Francesca Daniels and Jessie, whose commitment to their respective causes embodies the spirit of volunteerism and community service. These individual volunteer spotlights showcase the impact of their contributions and serve as a source of inspiration for others. Here are a few more examples:
Ike Powell III – Servant Leader and Mentor
Ike Powell III is a Senior Program Specialist with the county’s Youth Services Department, has dedicated nearly twenty years to mentoring youth and young adults in our community. His passion for giving back and developing others is evident in his commitment to mentoring, which has positively impacted countless lives over the years.
Sharon DiPietro – Chairwoman Tri-County Animal Rescue
Sharon DiPietro’s lifelong commitment to helping those in need, especially the voiceless, led her to volunteer with Tri-County Animal Rescue (TCAR) over fifteen years ago. As the board’s Chairwoman, Sharon oversees initiatives to rescue and rehabilitate animals in distressed situations, providing them with a second chance at life.
Katie Flaks – Animal Rescue Advocate
Katie Flaks, founder of The Spay & Neuter Project, has dedicated her life to helping animals in need. Through her non-profit dog rescue and current project in Alabama, Katie works tirelessly to reduce pet overpopulation and provide care for animals in distress. Her passion for making a difference in the lives of animals fuels her ongoing efforts.
Mary Labanowski, M.D. – Caridad Center
Dr. Mary Labanowski’s dedication to serving others led her to volunteer at the Caridad Center, where she played a crucial role in providing essential medical services, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her commitment to supporting the center’s patients, despite challenges and uncertainties, reflects her compassionate and steadfast nature.
Yury & Sam Shapshal – Heroes in District Five
Yury Shapshal and his son Sam demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness when they rescued a boy from a car overturned in a canal. Their quick thinking and decisive actions saved a life and serve as a testament to the power of compassion and bravery in our community.
