CNVL ANNOUNCES 32ND ANNUAL HEART OF MARIN WINNERS

Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership announced the recipients of the 32nd Annual Heart of Marin Awards. On Jan. 9, 540 community leaders, volunteers, elected officials and business members gathered to celebrate the 32nd annual Heart of Marin Awards at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall in San Rafael. The awards luncheon honored and celebrated 102 nominees and recognized award recipients in eight categories, distributing $35,000.
“Every year, I am inspired by the brilliance and dedication of our local nonprofit leaders,” said Linda Jacobs, CEO of CVNL.
“This event is a celebration of their remarkable impact — the difference each of them has made in strengthening our community and addressing critical needs. It’s also an opportunity to look forward, ensuring that the legacy of their vital work will inspire future generations to continue building
a thriving, compassionate and inclusive community.“
The 2024 Heart of Marin Award recipients are:

Corporate Community Service: Woodlands Pet Food and Treats
Woodlands is committed to providing care, compassion and essential resources to animals in shelters and foster homes, including food, treats, toys and beds. In 2024, they supported the adoption of 573 animals through their in-store adoption condos and mobile events, while also contributing over $132,000 in in-kind donations, including funds and supplies.

Volunteer of the year: Christine Comaford, By the Bay Health
Christine Comaford has dedicated 15 years of compassionate service to By the Bay Health, providing emotional support, companionship, and Reiki energy work for terminally ill patients and their caregivers. As a patient and family support volunteer and a “Big Buddy” for bereaved children, she creates meaningful connections, eases end-of-life transitions, and brings comfort through her thoughtfulness and creativity.

Excellence in Board Leadership: David Bernard, San Geronimo Valley Community Center
David Bernard has dedicated six years of service to the San Geronimo Valley Community Center board, providing leadership as president and treasurer and contributing to key committees. In 2024, he guided the center through an executive leadership transition, strengthened strategic
planning efforts and enhanced fundraising initiatives.

Excellence in Innovation: Marin Foster Care Association
Marin Foster Care Association supports foster families and addresses critical needs for transition-age foster youth, including housing. In partnership with local agencies and donors, they purchased and renovated a building, providing stable housing for six youth, complete with personalized furnishings from Make It Home. This effort ensures youth have the support and resources needed to transition to independence, pursue education
and jobs and avoid the risks of homelessness.
Excellence in Leadership: Caroline Peattie, Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California
Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California promotes equal housing opportunities and diversity through advocacy, education, and programs
supporting marginalized communities. Under Caroline Peattie’s leadership, the organization has advanced legislative initiatives, uncovered
discriminatory practices in housing, lending and appraisals, and secured impactful settlements, including a high- profile case in Marin City.

Nonprofit excellence: Marin Child Care Council
Marin Child Care Council works to improve access to quality early childhood education and care for low-income families and the early-care workforce, addressing barriers like affordability and accessibility. In the past year, the council provided child care vouchers for 1,000 children,
case management for 700 parents, supported 30 new family childcare providers and offered technical assistance for 50 programs to secure federal
funding, expanding capacity and improving quality.

Youth Volunteers of the year
• Shea Sorcher, Marin County
Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Unit
• Candice Lucas, Golden Gate
National Parks Conservancy
• Hudson Blechman, 100+ Teens Who Care Bay Area
• Tess Belger, Project Awareness and Special Sports
• Walt Novosardian, Youth Leadership Institute

Lifetime Achievement: Donna Garske and Bettie Hodges
Donna Garske has dedicated her life to supporting survivors and raising awareness about domestic violence. Her work includes years of service on
a 24/7 hotline and relentless efforts to educate others about the realities of abuse. Garske has made a lasting impact by challenging societal norms and driving change both locally and nationally to end domestic violence.
Bettie Hodges has dedicated her career to education, social justice, and civic responsibility. Her experience includes staffing the Employment and Housing Subcommittee of Government Operations under Congressman Barney Frank and serving as program officer for Housing and Community Development at Marin Community Foundation. Hodges has launched numerous programs and initiatives, creating opportunities, bridging education gaps, and empowering marginalized communities, with a focus on people of color.