When Tawny Hammond started as manager at Lake Accotink Park in 1997, she encountered some community members that didn't even know the park was there.
Over the past seven years, Hammond has incorporated the community in Lake Accotink's development. She was recognized as one of the recipients of the Bob Westmoreland Awards for Community Service, on Wednesday, April 14, at the American Legion Post 176 in Springfield.
"One of the things I was struck by was how many people who had not been into the park," Hammond said.
Through the years, Hammond incorporated Lake Accotink in several outreach activities, including the adoption of an island in the middle of Backlick Road in front of Lynbrook Elementary School. Hammond and a crew planted decorative grasses and shrubbery around the sign, and maintain it as well. At that location, the Springfield sign acts as a welcome mat to people entering the community. Peggy Cope, manager at the Richard Byrd Library, passes that island and notices the change.
"I drive past the median in Backlick every day," Cope said. "Tawny's done a terrific job. It's beautiful. There is no day that's too long for Tawny."
Hammond was honored with the Bob Westmoreland award along with W.J. Leonard, who was recognized for his work with grieving families as well as supporting seniors, needy families and youth in Springfield.
Susan Maher also received a Certificate of Merit for her work with Garfield Elementary School, where she created "Business Friends of Garfield."
Supervisor Dana Kauffman (D-Lee) defined volunteerism.
"You have to want to make an impact in people's lives. At the local level, if you invest the time, you see the impact in the community," Kauffman said.
IN THE audience at the American Legion were Del. Dave Albo (R-42nd), Del. Vivian Watts (D-39th), Kauffman, police officers from the Franconia District Station and other members of the Interservice Club Council. The Interservice Club Council consists of representatives from schools, police, parks, library and civic organizations around Springfield that perform activities in the community. Linda Waller, administrative aide in Kauffman's office, is the president of the Interservice Council. Waller experienced the spirit of volunteering with Leonard.
"Somehow with all that he does touches the heart of Springfield," Waller said.
Lisa Adler of Springfield worked with Leonard in the past.
"He's been a great advocate of the community," Adler said.
This year's officers in the Interservice Club Council include Waller as president, Charles McPherson as vice president, treasurer Ann Goergan, and Bill Bruch as secretary.