'We think of them as our rock stars.' Orrville Area United Way honors volunteers

ORRVILLE − Passion, persistence, and purpose. That is how Dawn Cazzolli, the executive director of the Orrville Area United Way, describes the organization's volunteers.

“The Passion, persistence and purpose of all our volunteers are apparent when looking at the impact we make in our community and the lives of those who live here,” Cazzolli said at the 65th annual volunteer appreciation dinner on Wednesday.

More: Orrville Area United Way special grant application opens May 1

The local United Way honored about 100 volunteers at the event, which took place at the Student Building at the University of Akron's Wayne College campus. Representatives from OAUW-funded partners, such as Orrville YMCA, Red Cross and Salvation Army, joined the event wearing light-up star necklaces.

“We think of them as our rock stars,” she said.

Cazzolli invited attendees to talk with the representatives to learn about how they serve the area and how they can help the community.

“Your investment as volunteers directly impacts their ability to do what they do, and it’s together that we impact our community for the better,” Cazzolli said.

Walt Samson, board president, presented a review of the 2023 strategic plan. He noted the campaign cabinet committee was able to raise more than $666,000.

“Hopefully, as you have seen over the last couple of years, we continue to do a very good job," Samson said. "I am very excited to see where we continue to go.”

This year’s campaign theme is community.

“We are all connected is the foundation of the United Way,” Cazzolli said.

The agency’s strategic plan focuses on diversifying sources of income and having financial stability, creating a digital footprint with partners, and engaging with constituents to deliver their mission.

Percy's volunteers entertain 'while keeping the giant Percy head about them'

This year, Cazzolli recognized Percy's volunteers, individuals who are responsible for entertaining children wearing mascot costumes.

“They greet, dance, run, and do many other things all while keeping the giant Percy head about them,” she said.

Sarah Birchfield was announced as the 2022 winner of the Patti Ayers Say Yes Award.

“Sarah has literally said 'Yes' since agreeing to join our board of directors,” Cazzolli said. “When asked for anything, Sarah immediately steps up and takes on a leadership role,” she said.

Birchfield joined OAUW two years ago. She is on the board of directors, the events and marketing committee, and the campaign cabinet.

“I didn’t expect this. I love that I am able to contribute to the community to thrive,” Birchfield said. “Everyone of us has different talents and different skillsets and if I can help in any way I am willing to do that. I live and work in these communities and want them to succeed.”

OAUW offers six $5,000 summer grants to support special projects for nonprofit organizations. The application will be available online by May 1.

For the first time in about 10 years, the agency will hold the Day of Caring from 9 a.m.-noon May 3, Cazzolli said.

More than 60 volunteers will help to finish various projects in the community, ranging from landscaping, cleaning flower beds and painting to cleaning the Storybook trail.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Orrville Area United Way honors volunteers at annual dinner