The Woodlands, TX (Thursday, February 12, 2009) Interfaith of The Woodlands is excited to announce the 2009 Service of Excellence Award recipients. Being honored for their significant contribution in making a difference and commitment to our community through their volunteerism are: Bunny Benditz- Fine Arts; Heather Montgomery-Seniors; Dr. Joel Reed- Health; Ed Thorney- Education; and Kathy Wojtczak- Youth.
Bunny Benditz, the Fine Arts recipient, has a contagious enthusiasm for her love of the arts. In addition to serving on the Pavilion’s Board of Directors in 2007 and 2008, Benditz has served on the Pavilion Partners Board of Directors for nine years, including serving as the president of the Pavilion Partners for three years. She is greatly involved with the Pavilion’s annual Children’s Festival and is the creator/chair for the Partners’ Craft Committee, which entails creating hands-on crafts for hundreds of children as part of the pre-concert activities at the Pavilion. Benditz also helps to raise funds supporting performing arts event, education outreach programs and fine arts scholarships. Additionally, she initiated and served as chair of The Woodlands ArtFest in 2002 and 2003, which preceded the current Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival. Jerry MacDonald said, “Bunny epitomizes someone who invests herself in our community and the area of fine arts, and who greatly inspires other through her dedication.”
Heather Montgomery, the Service of Excellence Award recipient for Seniors, is someone who has enriched many lives by her commitment to serving others. Carmen Pellettieri at the Friendship Center shared, “Anyone whose path has crossed Heather’s, whether in her role as a key staff member to Congressman Kevin Brady or whose life has been touched by her service, knows that her dedication, commitment and leadership is from a sincere desire to enrich the lives of others.” For years, Montgomery has been involved with the Friendship Center, and numerous senior adults have reaped the benefits of her passion. She has volunteered her time in many capacities of the Friendship Center including Board of Directors officer, member and committee chair helping to shape policies and guidelines of the organization. Montgomery does extraordinary work on behalf of the elderly people and is an inspiration to all.
Dr. Joel Reed has shown enormous passion and compassion for the healthcare industry. His humility for this profession was evident throughout the many letters supporting his nomination. Dr. Reed, a retired pulmonary specialist, is founder of Park Plaza hospital located at the Medical Center in Houston. Dr. Reed’s contributions are not limited to the hospital as he has also dedicated time for over 10 years of service to patients at the South Montgomery County Community Clinic. He also is very involved with the ALL program at Lone Star College/Montgomery Campus, which is designed for individuals over 55 years old. Dr. Reed was part of the original planning team in helping the ALL program start in 2000 and supports the campus by teaching classes on health and how to keep yourself healthy. According to Bob Williams, “The Service of Excellence Award in Health is a recognition that Reed richly deserves.”
Ed Thorney, Service of Excellence recipient for Education, has been instrumental in promoting success and making a difference in many lives. Seven years ago, Thorney came into the lives and hearts of everyone at Buckalew Elementary when he decided to volunteer and share his talents. A World War II veteran, Thorney visits each Buckalew classroom of every grade level working with children one on one or in small or large groups at least twice a week. He enjoys telling stories and explaining past history to all the children as well as provides academic assistance and encouragement to all the teachers. Linda Crews, Principal at Buckalew Elementary, stated “Thorney’s energy is an inspiration to us all and even though he is a volunteer, everyone at Buckalew considers him an official faculty member complete with his very own mailbox. The children will always remember Mr. Ed Thorney.”
Interfaith also congratulates Kathy Wojtczak, the Service of Excellence Award recipient for Youth. According to Mary Eyman, “Kathy is a beautiful example of a person willing to give her time and talents to helping the children of The Woodlands” and has joyfully served children in our community for nearly 20 years. She also spent numerous hours working at the Woodlands Children’s Museum coordinating the Critter Room, Field Trips and Birthday Parties. In addition, Wojtczak brings educational opportunities to children through WOW Science Camp, Barbara Bush Science lab, tutoring, Mitchell Intermediate Room Mom, The Woodlands United Methodist Church Sunday School teacher, Rehabilitation Center for physically challenged children, Special Olympics, The Indiana School for the Blind, Girl Scouts and many more. Wojtczak is always involved, and her commitment and dedication to the youth has truly enriched the lives of countless young people.
The five recipients will be awarded the Service of Excellence Award during the annual Interfaith Spring Luncheon held on Friday, March 13 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Woodlands Resort and Convention Center. Proceeds from the tickets and raffle will benefit and help to support Interfaith’s Social Service Programs.
The Circle of Honor sponsors for the event are Anadarko, Entergy, Friends of Interfaith, and The Woodlands Township. Many other individuals, businesses and organizations are also generously sponsoring the event.
“The generosity of the community is always commendable, and we personally thank each individual, business and corporation for their ongoing support especially during this time,” said Dr. Ann Snyder, President and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands.
State Representative Rob Eissler will serve as the Honorary Chairman and Nelda Blair will serve as the Emcee.
For additional information or to purchase tickets, please contact Interfaith at 281-367-1230.
Ed Thorney (center) is selected as the Education recipient for the Interfaith Five Who Share Luncheon.
Bunny Benditz (center) is selected as the Education recipient for the Interfaith Five Who Share Luncheon.
Dr. Joel Reed (center) is selected as the Education recipient for the Interfaith Five Who Share Luncheon.
Heather Montgomery (center) is selected as the Education recipient for the Interfaith Five Who Share Luncheon.
Kathy Wojtczak (center) is selected as the Education recipient for the Interfaith Five Who Share Luncheon.
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