Department of Neighborhoods
Press Release / Public Service Annoucement
MAYOR’S VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION CEREMONY CELEBRATES CONTRIBUTIONS OF VOLUNTEERS
April 25, 2024 -- The Mayor’s Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony was held on April 24, 2024, at City Hall, presented by the Department of Neighborhoods (DON) in partnership with Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston (IMGH). The program featured a keynote address by Mayor John Whitmire. In attendance were City officials and staff and community guests. Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Amy Peck joined the mayor onstage to congratulate the honorees.
“I am proud to recognize the exceptional work of individuals and community organizations who partner with the City of Houston to help meet the needs of residents and communities,” said Mayor Whitmire. “Whether they are providing legal services, helping with the preparation of wills and citizenship applications, mentoring youth, or taking part in neighborhood improvement efforts, our hardworking volunteers are making a positive difference in the lives of our neighbors. We thank them for their generosity and dedication to helping fellow Houstonians.”
- Event photos can be found here (link opens in a new tab)
The mayor recognized 17 Houstonians who received the prestigious 2023 President’s Volunteer Service Award, including one Lifetime Achievement Award. The awards recognize individuals and groups for sustained commitment to volunteer service.
“The President’s Volunteer Service Award recognizes volunteers who are committed to a high level of volunteer service,” said Martin B. Cominsky, President & CEO of Interfaith Ministries. “As a certifying organization, Interfaith Ministries’ Volunteer Houston is honored to recognize 17 volunteers who earned a bronze, gold, and a lifetime achievement award at this annual Mayor’s Volunteer Appreciation Award ceremony.”
The 2024 Mayor’s Volunteer Appreciation Awards were presented to 22 individuals by Mayor Whitmire and DON director Herbert Sims. The presentation included two awards in the Next Generationyouth category and two awards in the Service Coordination Star category recognizing outstanding professionalism in volunteer management.
“We’re fortunate to have so many amazing volunteers work with us to build a better future for Houstonians,” said Sims. “Volunteers are changemakers and we appreciate the compassion they show and the responsibility they accept to create positive change in their communities."
The 2024 Volunteer Houston Spotlight Award was presented to 5 individuals by Andréa Shiloh, IMGH Vice President of Volunteerism & Civic Service.
"Volunteers are the heartbeat of Houston. I am immensely proud to recognize the remarkable volunteers from all corners of our city. Their generosity knows no bounds as they dedicate their time and talent to serving people and communities in need. Their impact is profound and enduring. For half a century, Volunteer Houston, a program of Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston, has been connecting Houstonians with nonprofits and organizations while fostering a culture of compassion and service that truly defines our city."
Award Recipients
For more information about the Mayor’s Volunteer Appreciation Awards, contact DON’s Office of Neighborhood Engagement at 832-393-1043 or email roman.aguilar@houstontx.gov.