VICENZA, Italy – Volunteers at U.S. Army Garrison Italy were recognized during an April 30 ceremony that highlighted how important their efforts are to the Vicenza Military Community.
“We Hit the Jackpot with Our Volunteers,” was the theme of the year’s awards. Dozens of people turned out for the annual ceremony at Army Community Service that honored the heart and soul of USAG Italy – its volunteers.
The guest speaker, Lt. Col. Leah Sanchez, who serves as the garrison’s Director of Emergency Services and provost marshal, volunteers her time at Soldiers’ Theatre and performed in “Radium Girls” – a community theater performance that earned 11 Topper Awards this year. Sanchez knows the value of volunteerism and is a strong advocate for those who give their time, energy, and talents to make this community stronger.
Volunteering helps build relationships and assists in assimilating into a new community. Volunteers develop new skills and experiences for the volunteer, she said.
“Volunteering makes it possible for our community to extend the activities and opportunities we offer,” Sanchez said. “Volunteers bring their time, talents, hands, and perspectives, which allows the Army to extend its budget by millions annually.”
In 2024, more than 351 volunteers reported more than 35,000 hours in Vicenza. That represents nearly $1.2 million. Twenty volunteers contributed between 250-499 hours and 11 volunteers contributed more than 500 hours. One volunteer logged more than 1,000 hours.
Jolly Miller, the USAG Italy ACS Director, reminded the volunteers that their efforts don’t go unnoticed.
“You are the heart of the Vicenza Military Community,” Miller said “Truly, we hit the jackpot with every one of you.”
Nominations for “Volunteer of the Year” were recommended by their organizations. There were 25 nominations. This year, the awards are presented under the following categories: servicemember, civilian, retiree, youth, civilian spouse and military spouse.
The Volunteers of the Year:
Servicemember
Akio Ali (80 Hours; nominated by C Co 54th BEB 173rd IBCT (Airborne) Ali had a tremendous impact on Charlie Company, 54th BEB and the USAG Italy Military Community, volunteering for the SFRG. He cooks for his company, forty or more Soldiers, and he planned a company Christmas party for over 55 people. He’s helped fundraise and supervised a taco stand at the Independence Day celebration.
Civilian
Michael Leahy (411 Hours; nominated by Soldiers’ Theatre) Leahy ensured the success of Soldiers' Theatre through every production and several special events this theatre season. A talented actor, his expertise as a performer and stage manager were a vital part of each production. He’s known to inspire, mentor, and assist other volunteers. He was the stage manager for the large-scale production of "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" that showcased over 30 of the community’s youth.
Retiree
Freida Carter-Reche (186.25 Hours; nominated by The American Red Cross) Freida was involved in community relations and outreach. Known for her energy and joy, she helped foster connections, increase awareness, and recruit new volunteers to the American Red Cross. In the last six months of 2024, 75 new volunteers joined, a 150% increase. She also volunteers with the USO, the 414th CSB SFRG, the Ederle Protestant Women of the Chapel, and the Vicenza Community of Color.
Youth
Lauren Eelkema (95.75 Hours; nominated by The American Red Cross) As an active member of the Vicenza High School Red Cross Club, she led several events, including a donation drive benefiting a local animal shelter, the community heart walk, the Preparedness Month & Zombie Apocalypse event, Trunk or Treat, and the fall campus clean-up. She also earned certification in Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR & AED. In addition to her volunteer work, she is an active member of the Keystone Club, the High School Cheer Team, and serves as the Battalion Commander for the JROTC
Civilian spouse
Mary Spitler (306 Hours; nominated by the PTSA)
Her efforts have resulted in positive change and countless benefits for students, teachers, and schools. She carried out Spring pictures, Family Literacy Night, Read Across America Week activities, Valentine’s Lunch, Yearbook Creation and Orders, Popcorn & Popsicles, Testing Snacks, Senior Scholarships, Spring Book Fairs at VMS and VES, Teacher Appreciation Week, Quarterly Teacher Appreciation Gifts, Military Child Purple Up Day, Spirit Wear Sales, Field Day and more. As the Elementary School Vice President for PTSA, she served as a liaison between the PTSA and stakeholders of the community.
Military spouse
Angie Olivera E (1112 Hours; nominated by C Co 1-503d SFRG) made a huge impact within “First Rock.” Whether setting up a Soldiers’ welcome reception after training, attending SFRG meetings and socials, connecting with families, or organizing community events and initiatives, she was always there with a smile and a positive attitude. She also volunteers with the American Red Cross.
She cooked a Thanksgiving meal for 18 single soldiers and 35 medical staff and family alongside the medical command and Red Cross volunteers. She also assists with a monthly coffee cart for the medical staff and is part of the Army Health Clinic Morale Committee. She helped plan, organize, and execute the Red Cross Vicenza Resiliency Day, in partnership with Wounded Warrior Project and the Army Health Center, offering homemade pizza, games, crafts, and engagement for 200 staff.
Social Sharing