Elburn man named Marklund volunteer of the year

Elburn resident Neil Gordon was named Marklund’s 2023 Volunteer of the Year.

Gordon was recognized for almost six years and more than 300 hours of volunteer work at Marklund’s annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch on April 27 at St. Andrews Golf and Country Club in West Chicago, according to a news release from Marklund.

Marklund is a nonprofit organization that serves people of all ages with developmental disabilities and special health care needs in Kane County.

Nikki Osterloh, manager of volunteer engagement at the Geneva campus, announced the award at the brunch. She said Gordon volunteers weekly at the Hyde Center campus in Geneva and recognized the many ways he supports staff in addition to frequently taking residents on outings.

“[Gordon] has done anything and everything,” Osterloh said. “There’s never been a moment when our residents and staff are around this volunteer that they’re not smiling or laughing.”

Osterloh said Gordon has helped with classroom activities, decorated for holidays and volunteered at baseball games. Last year, he played the music for the Geneva Summer Games and was Santa Claus for two events.

“I was very surprised I was chosen as my fellow volunteers are deserving as well,” Gordon said. “I think the most rewarding part of volunteering at Marklund is the smiles and reactions I get when visiting or going out on an outing.”

The recognition event brought together clients, staff, family, volunteers and friends from all Marklund facilities.

“We were happy to have had the privilege of honoring our incredible volunteers recently at our annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch,” Osterloh said. “For an astounding 70 years, our volunteers have played a vital role supporting our mission, ever since our organization was founded by a very special nurse by the name of Claire Haverkampf.”

Other 2023 Volunteer Awards presented at the appreciation event included:

• Marklund Hero Award: Karyn and Duane Fitch

• Group of the Year: Batavia High School psychology club

• Special Event Volunteer Award: Heather Ravenna

• Inspiration Award: Chad Clarey

• Most Volunteer Hours: Evan Clark

“Together, all of our exceptional individuals and groups have contributed a remarkable 8,625 volunteer hours this year,” Osterloh said. “Their commitment and generosity have made a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.”

To learn about volunteer opportunities at Marklund, visit www.marklund.org/volunteer.