The Value of Service

Every day, hundreds of hard-working individuals give of themselves, their ideas and their leadership to bring investment and hope to communities all across the country.  NeighborWorks America selects several of these remarkable individuals each year to honor for their commitment. 

The Dorothy Richardson Awards for Resident Leadership and the NeighborWorks Government Service Awards recognize integral partners in the NeighborWorks System – community residents and government officials. 

Residents bring years of experience and a deep understanding of what is needed to revitalize their communities.  They know their neighborhoods inside and out, and they, better than any outside party, know what their neighbors want and need.  They volunteer their time, serving on boards, leading groups of other volunteers, creating programs to improve the lives of the people and encouraging businesses to invest in their communities.  They are active and outspoken advocates, speaking out against crime and neglect, sometimes risking their own safety for the sake of others.

Public service personnel are another critical partner – whether elected, appointed or career civil servants on the state, local or federal level.  These often unsung heroes go above and beyond the call of duty to advocate for their constituents.  They bring needed dollars, programs, services and educational opportunities to people who might not otherwise have a voice.  They support important legislation, relying on their hands-on knowledge of how policies work at the ground level.  They take the time to get to know the residents in their communities.  They represent their constituents with passion and dedication, often fighting a hard fight to serve the underserved. 

In fact, NeighborWorks America was created by the public sector (Congress), and continues to receive significant public sector support, allowing us to provide financial assistance, technical assistance and training to support community development.  The NeighborWorks system would not exist without the support of our government partners.

I commend this year’s honorees for their dedication, their support, and their persistence in the face of challenges.  Their unwavering leadership makes possible a better future for all of us.

Kenneth D. Wade
Chief Executive Officer, NeighborWorks America

 

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