On a recent evening, members of our communities gathered in Williamsport to honor the sort of volunteerism and community service that we long have argued is both a cherished value or principle of our region’s character and something of which all of our neighborhoods and communities need more.

Marvin and Debbie Hurwitz have worked tirelessly on behalf of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, Lycoming County Brotherhood Alliance’s Holocaust Museum educational trip and the Williamsport Federation of Jewish Charities, among others. Vince Reeder co-founded the initiative Hats for Heat and has volunteered for and coached Little League in Montoursville. Christine Atkins sews quilts, scarfs and stuffed elephants by hand to donate to the Gatehouse, Wise Options and other nonprofits. Diana Logan coordinates outreach and activities for people with special needs or disabilities. Steven Moff was a founding volunteer for Little League Challengers Division, which supports baseball for kids with special needs. Marc and Marianne Tupper have volunteered for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Meals on Wheels and numerous other projects and initiatives.

We appreciate the Lycoming County Brotherhood Alliance for recognizing with awards the invaluable contributions these members of our communities make, and we believe everyone should appreciate their hard work and sense of service to their neighborhoods and region.