Matt Brolley Village President | Village of Montgomery
Matt Brolley Village President | Village of Montgomery
At the Village Board Meeting on June 23, the Village of Montgomery recognized seven individuals and one nonprofit group for their volunteer contributions. This annual Volunteer of the Year Recognition event highlights those who have made significant impacts in various areas.
"While volunteers often give without expectation of recognition, tonight we take the opportunity to say thank you," stated Rosie Boeing, Community Engagement & Event Coordinator for the Village of Montgomery. "The individuals we honor this evening have left a lasting impact—uplifting others, preserving our heritage, and demonstrating what it truly means to serve."
The honorees for 2025 include:
- **Youth Impact Volunteer of the Year**: Bob Mehrens is a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) who supports children in foster care. He also mentors new volunteers and collaborates with child-welfare professionals in Kane County.
- **Heart of the Community Volunteer of the Year**: Nancy Tranby has been Mrs. Claus at Montgomery’s annual Tree Lighting & Visit with Santa for decades. She is also involved with community beautification efforts.
- **Community Impact Volunteer of the Year**: Alecia Wahl supports a local food pantry through St. Olaf Church in Montgomery, providing food and emotional support to families in need.
- **Nonprofit Organization Impact Volunteers of the Year**: The Dickson-Murst Farm Partners work on education, preservation, and storytelling to honor Montgomery’s agricultural roots.
- **Rising Stars Volunteers of the Year**: Harper Ault, Madelyn Gordon, Katelyn LaMonica, and Ava Yarbough are peer leaders at Special Stars, Inc., a dance studio for children with disabilities in Montgomery.
The Village expressed gratitude to all volunteers who contribute to making Montgomery a more connected community. A special appreciation gathering was held before the board meeting on June 23 to celebrate these achievements. For more information about the award program, visit montgomeryil.org.
Photos from the event can be viewed at https://montgomeryil.smugmug.com/COMMUNITY-ENGAGEMENT/Volunteer-of-the-Year-2025.
PHOTO CREDIT TO CHRIS RIZZUTO PHOTOGRAPHY.