Joliet nonprofit volunteers honored at Philanthropy Recognition Brunch

The brunch was held at the Renaissance Center in Joliet

Arkas Restaurant Group hosts the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet.

Volunteers at Joliet area nonprofits were honored Saturday at the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Brunch.

The brunch was held at the Renaissance Center in Joliet “in behalf of the Arkas Restaurant Group,” according to the invitation letter.

Kristi Mulvey, executive director of the JJC Foundation, served as the event’s master of ceremonies.

Kristin Mulvey, JJC Foundation Executive Director, speaks at the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet.

Karen Isberg Sorbero led the national anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. Clyne Namuo, president of Joliet Junior College, was the guest of honor.

“We believe that by acknowledging these individuals, we can inspire others to contribute and continue to foster a spirit of generosity and community support.”

—  Elina Triantou, Renaissance Center Banquets in Joliet
Dr. Clyne Namuo, JJC President, speaks at the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet.

In the invitation letter, Elina Triantou of Renaissance Center Banquets in Joliet, said the goal was to “bring together nonprofits and celebrate the outstanding efforts of those who have made a difference.”

Triantou additionally said in the letter that the brunch also provided an opportunity for nonprofits to honor someone “who has made a significant impact through their time, talents, or treasures.”

“Whether it be a dedicated volunteer, a talented board member, or a generous donor, we want to recognize these extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond for the Joliet community,” Triantou said in the letter and added, “We believe that by acknowledging these individuals, we can inspire others to contribute and continue to foster a spirit of generosity and community support.”

Arkas Restaurant Group hosts the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet.

Susie Stockwell, wedding specialist at Renaissance Center Banquets, said the brunch served as a great opportunity for nonprofits to “get together and tell their stories about what they do.”

“And they could each nominate someone from the organization who does outstanding work In the community for their organization,” Stockwell said.

Joliet area nonprofits honored

The following nonprofits and volunteers recognized at Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Brunch

Brats, Bourbon and Brews:

For more information, visit bratsbourbonbrews.org.

Sally Matay holds up the award for her charity work on behalf of Brats, Bourbon and Brews at the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet.

CASA of River Valley: Jen Lynch

For more information, visit casaofrivervalley.org.

Holly Club of Joliet: Pam Kaumeyer

For more information, visit hollyclubjoliet.org.

Illinois Rock & Roll Museum: Dan Philip

For more information, visit roadtorock.org.

Joliet Latino Economic Development Association: Alex Paramo

For more information, visit jolietleda.org,

Joliet Councilman Cesar Cardenas presents Alex Paramo with his award for his charity work on behalf of the Joliet Latino Economic Development Association at the inaugural Joliet Philanthropy Recognition Awards Ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet.

Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care: Dr. JD Wright

For more information, visit lightways.org.

Lightways Hospice Guild: Jean Roach

For more information, visit lightways.org/guild.

Rialto Square Theatre volunteers: Jen Howard

For more information, visit rialtosquare.com.

Saint Joseph Auxiliary: Patti Kanellakes and Dorothy Stanfield

The Salvation Army Joliet Corps: Novel Woods

For more information, visit centralusa.salvationarmy.org/joliet.

Three Hierarchs Philoptochos Society: Nancy Griparis

For more information, visit three-hierarchs-philoptochos.square.site.

Visitation and Aid Society of Joliet: Sue Peyla

For more information, visit visitationandaidsocietyjoliet.org.

Zonta Club of Joliet Area: Dr. Patricia Miller

For more information, visit jolietzonta.org.

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