2019 Champions of the Community
Phoenixville Community Health Foundation Acknowledges the Champions of the Community
Phoenixville: Stop a minute and look around you…every community has someone who goes above and beyond when it comes to giving of their time and helping others. Maybe it is a co-worker, a neighbor, a friend, or even a relative. Maybe they are older and have been giving a long time; maybe they are younger and learning the joys of giving…or anywhere in between.
For the past 19 years, the Phoenixville Community Health Foundation has honored these “Champions of the Community.” Since the year 2000 when this program was first developed, 81 individuals have been honored as Community Champions. On Friday, November 22, 2019 the Foundation continued this tradition. The Champions of the Community Award Luncheon was held at the Phoenixville Country Club with 60 people in attendance.
2019 Champions of the Community l/r: Gail and Franco LoPresti, Maria Galarza, Gregory Vallino, and Joseph Rowan
“The Champions of the Community program is a wonderful way to honor unsung heroes in our area,” said Tamela Luce, foundation President and CEO. “Our five 2019 Champions all exemplify the Foundation’s mission to improve the health and quality of life for people in the greater Phoenixville region. We celebrate their work, dedication, and spirit of community.”
Nominations were submitted by community members. A Selection Committee, comprised of foundation board members Jessica Capistrant, John Colarusso, Anna Mae Galbraith, Maria Schwab, and Theresa Thornton reviewed all nominations selected the Champions.
The 2019 Champions of the Community are:
Maria Galarza was nominated by Jane Dugdale for her tireless work with Ann’s Heart, the Code Blue Shelter, and other efforts within the Phoenixville Latino community.
Franco and Gail LoPresti were nominated by past Champion Jan Swarr and Ginger Murphy. The LoPresti family has made giving back to the nonprofit and service community of Phoenixville an integral part of their lives.
Joseph Rowan was nominated by past Champion Jim Deoria for his consistent, long-standing commitment to the mission and programs of the Phoenixville Police Athletic League.
Gregory Vallino was nominated by past Champion Greg Porter for his commitment as a volunteer pilot with Angel Flight East providing free transportation for medical care and treatments.
A downloadable copy of this press release is available.
The mission of the Phoenixville Community Health Foundation is to improve the health and quality of life for people in the greater Phoenixville region by increasing access to quality healthcare services and promoting healthy communities through grantmaking and collaborations with health, civic, business, and community partners. The Phoenixville Community Health Foundation strives to be a Champion of the Community.
