Honoring Efforts of
Volunteers
quincy Service Club
Community Service
Service is our middle name. Our club is dedicated to serving the community by acknowledging the remarkable contributions of volunteers and first responders. We understand the invaluable role these individuals play in making our community a better place to live, and we strive to show our gratitude and appreciation for their selfless acts.
Through various initiatives and events, we aim to recognize and honor the efforts of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to helping others. Whether they engage in local charities, community organizations, or grassroots initiatives, we believe it is essential to shine a spotlight on their impactful work.
Additionally, we hold our first responders in high regard and recognize the sacrifices they make to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. From police officers and firefighters to paramedics and emergency personnel, we are committed to expressing our deep appreciation for their unwavering dedication. Click below to review the view the history of our awards and the listing of honorees.
First Responder Recognition Luncheon
Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
For over 70 years, the outstanding accomplishments of law enforcement officers from the Quincy Police Department, Adams County Sheriff Department, Illinois and Missouri Highway Patrols, and other state and federal agencies have been recognized. The Quincy Service Club is honored to continue this annual award, which recognizes officers who have displayed exemplary service, demonstrated exceptional professionalism, and made significant contributions to maintaining public safety.
Firefighter Recognition
Since 2009, recognition of the commendable work of firefighters from the Quincy and Tri-Township Fire Departments was added. Through this initiative, we highlight the courage, bravery, and invaluable service provided by these individuals who protect our community from fires and other emergencies.
Emergency Management Service Person of the Year
In addition to law enforcement and firefighters, we also acknowledge the crucial role played by Emergency Management Personnel. These dedicated individuals work behind the scenes to ensure effective response, coordination, and preparedness during crises and disasters. Their contributions are vital in safeguarding our community, and we take pride in recognizing their efforts.
Citizen Volunteer of the Year
More recently, we have introduced an annual recognition for citizens who go beyond by volunteering their time to assist our emergency personnel. This award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication, commitment, and a strong spirit of community service. Their selflessness and willingness to support our first responders have had a significant impact on our community's resilience and well-being.
Quincy’s Book of Golden Deeds: Honoring Our Outstanding Volunteers
For the past 70 years, the exceptional contributions of volunteers who tirelessly devote their time and talents to improving the quality of life in Quincy has been recognized and memorialized. We will continue this tradition with Quincy’s Book of Golden Deeds award, serving as a tribute to these remarkable individuals or groups, celebrating their selfless efforts in making our community a better place to live.
Adopt-A-Grandparent Program
The Adopt-a-Grandparent Program has been a cherished initiative that has fostered meaningful connections between elementary school students and seniors residing in nursing homes for many years. Although temporarily paused due to the pandemic and limited access to the Illinois Veterans Home, the program has had a positive impact on both the students and the seniors involved.
Program Origins and Purpose:
Max Johnson and Sonny Christner initially led the program, with assistance from other dedicated club members. Its primary objective was to match elementary school students with seniors in nursing homes who may not have family or regular visitors. By creating intergenerational bonds, the program aims to bring companionship, joy, and a sense of belonging to the seniors, while also providing a valuable learning experience for the students.
Matches and Participating Institutions:
Throughout the years, we successfully paired students from various schools with residents of Good Samaritan, Sunset, and the Illinois Veterans Home. Before the pandemic, students from St. Dominic School would visit the Illinois Veterans Home monthly during the school year.
Program Activities and Impact:
During their visits, the students would be matched with an "adopted" grandparent and engage in various activities together. These activities included fishing, crafts, holiday parties, and more. The students were encouraged to maintain communication through letter writing, and many continued their relationships with their adopted grandparents even after graduating from school.
Program Costs and Logistics:
The program's expenses mainly included providing t-shirts for the students, covering the cost of meals or snacks, and arranging bus transportation from St. Dominic's to the Veterans Home and back.
Benefiting Veterans and Students:
The Adopt-a-Grandparent Program serves as a valuable opportunity to support our military veterans residing in the Illinois Veterans Home while also providing enriching experiences for the participating students. Although perhaps not as widely recognized as some of our other service programs, this initiative holds immense significance for all involved.
Future Outlook:
As we navigate the challenges presented by the pandemic, the program's activities have been temporarily halted to ensure the safety of the vulnerable residents. However, we eagerly await the time when health concerns subside enough to resume this invaluable program and once again bring joy and companionship to our veterans.
Moving forward, we will closely follow state guidelines and prioritize caution to protect the well-being of the seniors in our community. The Adopt-a-Grandparent Program will continue to be an essential initiative that bridges the generational gap, strengthens community bonds, and honors our military veterans.
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