Send your Volunteer of the Year nomination by December 10!
Have you ever noticed that those who volunteer a lot of their time in their communities don’t expect any credit for it and may even shy away from the spotlight? But sometimes, to highlight a volunteer who gives back a lot can inspire someone else into action and create a ripple effect of good deeds.
Back in 2016 we created the SpinSheet Volunteer of the Year Award. Our first recipient was Captain Aram Nersesian of Solomons, who takes patients and families from the Children’s Inn at the National Institute of Health out for day sails each month, free of charge, on his 55-foot schooner Heron. Thanks to him, children from this facility, who are battling serious and terminal illnesses, enjoy a day of sunshine on the water with their families and caregivers.
Capt. Aram recently learned that Alex Mead, who’d read about his award in SpinSheet years ago, was inspired and now donates his time to Sail Beyond Cancer, an organization that “provides relief for those dealing with cancer through sailing,” says Alex, who was touched by the mission as his own daughter had been diagnosed with cancer at a young age.
Alex says, “I am able to provide some pleasure, albeit a small amount, to those needing it during such a difficult time. I truly believe sailing, just getting out on the water, is medicine for the soul. I am very fortunate to be able to be a part of this.”
Captain Aram adds, “There is so much volunteerism in the world... it’s everywhere. It comes in every shape and form. Finding a need in others and helping out any way that you can is the most gratifying and greatest ‘kick’ there is.”
SpinSheet contributor Gwen Mayes volunteers as a docent for the Annapolis Maritime Museum. She says, “As a docent for the museum and on the skipjack Wilma Lee for the Heritage Tours, it is a delight to share with visitors the significance of what’s around us. Being a volunteer has endeared me to the Bay and this area in ways I could have never imagined.”
SpinSheet’s editor Molly Winans has volunteered on an array of non-profit boards along the waterfront in Annapolis. She says, “If you want to meet interesting people in your community, there’s no better way than volunteering your time to a charity or non-profit, whether it’s by joining a board or volunteering to put wrist bands on guests at the door of a fundraiser. It’s a terrific way to make a difference and make new friends you may not meet otherwise.”
Who do you know?
Who do you know who dedicates their free time to an organization in our waterfront community? If you know of an exceptional volunteer on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries—this includes the Potomac at Washington, DC—nominate them for the 2022 SpinSheet Volunteer of the Year Award by December 10.
We are open to all types of volunteerism: planting trees, picking up marine debris, monitoring water quality, helping with community sailing programs, sailing or fishing with veterans, raising money for your favorite waterkeeper organization, yacht club foundation fundraiser planning, boat restoration, and more.
To nominate a volunteer, email [email protected] by December 10. Include the person’s name, the volunteer organization, and a paragraph about why you think their volunteerism is outstanding. SpinSheet staffers will vote on a winner to be announced in our January 2023 issue. We will also make a donation to the winner’s favorite non-profit organization.
