On Wednesday, April 20th, the City of Coral Springs recognized the contributions of a group of city volunteers by awarding them with the Lynne Johnson Award during the City Commission Meeting.
The award was named after Lynne Johnson passed away in 2009, she was a long-time city volunteer. The volunteers recognized this year are:
Enhancing and Preserving the Natural Environment of Coral Springs: Michelle Fox
As an officer of the Coral Springs Charter School National Honor Society, Michelle Fox worked closely with the City’s Public Works Department on their “Keep Coral Springs Beautiful” project. Over the course of up to six weekends throughout the year, Michelle recruited and helped supervise teams of student volunteers in cleaning up pounds of garbage littering the parks, bus stops, and canals in our city. Her efforts to organize and help supervise these cleanups are inspiring, and as a result, she has inspired other students to commit a portion of their time to volunteerism.
Committed to Enhancing City Services: Pastor Luiz Fernandez
Pastor Fernandez has served as Chaplain for the Coral Springs Police Department for the last six years. He is dedicated to the well-being of city staff, and he has become someone employees seek out for comfort and spiritual guidance in times of need. Pastor Fernandez was instrumental in coordinating home renovations to make it handicap accessible for a local 19-year-old paralyzed during a boating accident. Pastor Fernandez always goes above and beyond to help the community and made a real difference in the lives of those he touches.
Enhancing the Lives of Coral Springs Residents: Joe Morera
Joe Morera has volunteered with the city since 1998, serving on various boards and committees such as the Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee to plan events like WorldFest and the International Dinner Dance. Joe is dedicated and passionate about the volunteer work he provides and looks to improve and enhance the lives of his fellow residents. Motivated simply by his love for his community, Joe always raises his hand to help whenever needed.
Working with Youth: Cheryl Cooper
Cheryl has been a devoted member of the city’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee for over 20 years and is a big part of the committee’s annual Art & Literary contest. This contest encourages students in grades K-12 to reflect upon Dr. King’s life and legacy. Cheryl is dedicated to student development and student success working with teachers throughout city schools to assist and advise as needed. Her knowledge and experience are valued by those who she assists.
Working with Youth in Sports: Dr. Michael W. Mathesie
Dr. Michael Mathesie has been a volunteer board member of Coral Springs Youth Soccer for more than 10 years and coach for 28 teams for the past 18 years. This includes leagues such as T-ball, little league, flag football and soccer. He has assisted in the management of one of the largest municipal youth soccer leagues in the nation. Mike grew up in Coral Springs, attended Coral Springs High School and loves his community. In addition, Mike is a team captain for “Keep Coral Springs Beautiful” and engages students in quarterly clean-up projects.
Seniors Making a Difference: Pamela Woodard
Pamela Woodard has been a city volunteer since 2019. She regularly provides her time to the Building Department, dedicating up to six hours per week. Pamela is consistent, reliable, and willing to help when needed. During COVID-19, Pam stepped up and took all the required precautions so she could continue volunteering with the department. Pamela’s motivation comes from wanting to be involved in the city in which she lives, to get to know her community and meet new people. Her friends call her a “professional volunteer” because she has been volunteering since 1978 and likes to give back to the communities in which she has lived.
The City of Coral Springs encourages volunteerism for people of all ages and values their contributions to make Coral Springs the premiere city in which to live, work and raise a family. For more information about volunteering with the City of Coral Springs, visit our website or call 954-346-4430.
Original source can be found here.
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