2024 Governors Volunteer Awards
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Governor’s Volunteer Awards
The Governor's Volunteer Awards are issued annually to celebrate the dedicated people who make South Carolina a better place to live and work. Everyone who volunteers in South Carolina is a hero and deserving of recognition. For many of our dedicated volunteers the simple act of being nominated for such a significant award is an honor in itself.
The AmeriCorps Volunteer Award recognizes outstanding volunteer service and leadership in the Midlands region. This year's honoree is
Shenise Johnson-Williams, nominated by United Way Midlands, for her exceptional dedication to improving literacy outcomes for young students.
Shennice's exceptional commitment to United Way Midland's mission has been evident through her innovative approach to enhancing reading resources and her remarkable service of over 2,542 hours. She has empowered over 200 students and mobilized over 842 community volunteers, showing extraordinary leadership as a team lead.
Congratulations, Shenise, for your outstanding contribution to the community and education!
Meals on Wheels, Bluffton-Hilton Head proudly nominated Philip J. Kiser as the recipient of the Community Leader Award.
Phil's dedication and service as a delivery driver for over 10 years have significantly benefited Meals on Wheels senior and homebound neighbors in the area. Phil's role as route coordinator and scheduler enhances the efficiency of our operations and contributes to our mission. His work with various community organizations and his commitment to volunteerism reflect his passion for giving back and positively impacting the Low Country community.
Congratulations, Phil!
We are thrilled to announce Shaniqua Karanja as the recipient of the Direct Service Volunteer award.
Nominated by Radiate Church, Shaniqua's dedication to providing one-on-one support within our community is truly inspiring. Her commitment and initiative in serving others exemplify the spirit of volunteerism.
Congratulations, Shaniqua, on this well-deserved recognition for your outstanding contributions!
We are thrilled to announce the winner of the 2024 Governor's Volunteer Award in the Volunteer Group / Family category: The DiAntonio Family!
Nominated by Pickens County Habitat for Humanity, this extraordinary family has made a significant impact through their selfless volunteer work. Their dedication and passion for community service have inspired countless individuals and left a lasting positive influence in the region.
We congratulate The DiAntonio Family on this well-deserved recognition.
The South Carolina Governor's Volunteer Awards proudly recognize Cheryl Long as the recipient of the 2024 Legacy Volunteer Award.
Nominated by the United Way of Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Cheryl has made an incredible impact on the community through her 40+ years of service. Despite facing personal challenges, she dedicated her life to nonprofit work as the Executive Director of Axis I. Her outstanding commitment and resilience have left an indelible mark on Barnwell County.
Congratulations, Cheryl, on this well-deserved honor!
We are thrilled to announce Ray C. Funnye as the winner of the 2024 Governor's Volunteer Awards in the Legacy Volunteer category!
Nominated by the Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation, Ray's exceptional volunteer work as the founder and volunteer Executive Director of The Village Group has greatly impacted the Plantersville community in Georgetown County. His dedication over the past decade exemplifies his outstanding commitment to community service and support for local initiatives.
Congratulations, Ray, for your incredible contributions.
We are pleased to announce Cummins Turbo Technologies as the winner of the 2024 Governor's Volunteer Awards in the category of Workplace or Association Volunteer.
Nominated by the Carolina Youth Development Center, Cummins Turbo Technologies has displayed extraordinary dedication to community service. Their commitment to impactful initiatives and outstanding volunteer work has significantly benefited the community.
Congratulations to Cummins Turbo Technologies for this well-deserved recognition!
The South Carolina Governor's Volunteer Awards is proud to announce Savannah Mitchell as the winner of the 2024 Youth Volunteer Award.
Nominated by Amanda LeBlanc of Savannah Kares, Savannah's remarkable work in creating the nonprofit Savannah Kares to support families and children with asthma is truly inspiring. Her efforts include organizing an annual 5K event and providing Kare to Breathe kits with hypoallergenic materials. Savannah's passion, leadership, and dedication make her an exemplary role model for youth in our community.
Congratulations, Savannah, on your extraordinary impact!