The Unsung Hero Awards honor professional, volunteer, and teen leaders in the local Jewish community of Western Massachusetts. Each winner is recognized at a public forum and presented with a cash award as well as a contribution in his or her name to the Jewish organization of his or her choice.
Nominations for 2012 Awards Due Jan. 12, 2012
Outstanding Professional Leadership Award
Those individuals whose on-going professional work at a Jewish community organization has significant impact on Jewish life in Western Massachusetts may be eligible. An award will be given to:
- A professional leader at a Jewish education institute, AND
- A professional leader at a Jewish community organization.
2011 Award for Outstanding Professional Leadership Winners
Richard Renock of Rocky Hill, CT was the 2011 Award for Outstanding Leadership winner.
Separate awards for Exemplary Jewish Community Leadership were awarded in 2011 to Rabbi Amy Katz of Springfield, MA and Bil Zarch of Florence, MA.
Outstanding Volunteer Leadership Award
In honor of individuals whose on-going volunteer efforts have had a significant impact on Jewish life in Western Massachusetts, the Outstanding Volunteer Leadership award recipient will be selected from among nominees who are:
- A volunteer leader at a Jewish education institute AND
- A volunteer leader at a Jewish community organization.
2011 Outstanding Volunteer Leadership Award Winners
The 2011 award recipient for volunteer leadership at a Jewish community institution was given to Sue Polansky of Longmeadow, MA.
The award for volunteer leadership at a Jewish educational institution was awarded to Rebecca Serlin of Northampton, MA.
Outstanding Teen Leadership Award
A Western Massachusetts high school student will be recognized for his or her leadership in the Jewish community and commitment to Jewish values.
2011 Outstanding Teen Leadership Award Winners
HGF proudly acknowledges the 2011 winners of the Outstanding Teen Leadership Award: Juliana Gensheimer and Maya Berkman, both from Amherst, MA.