Meet the recipients of the 2023 Sandy Kiernat Community Service Award

Anne McInerney, Wilder Meals on Wheels Packer and Driver

Anne McInerney has remained a constant and dependable volunteer since 2019. She is an outstanding contributor in building authentic and meaningful relationships with Meals on Wheels recipients and goes above and beyond to support this program. Her approach to volunteer work reinforces to recipients that they are important, valuable and loved members of our community and that Wilder is here to support their goals and well-being.

“I volunteer with Wilder because I want to help, and helping deliver to Wilder clients serves a very important role," Anne says. "That alone would be enough. But then there are the Wilder clients! I have met so many wonderful, interesting people. It's so much fun to connect with them each week. To know that they enjoy seeing me as much as I enjoy seeing them. In addition, it feels good to know I'm helping Christine and Karyn at Wilder [Wilder staff]. They do all the hard work and contributing to that is important.”

Richard Wallisch, Wilder Customized Living Activity Assistant & Special Event Volunteer

Rich Wallisch has done a phenomenal job getting to know Customized Living participants as he volunteers and brings socialization opportunities for both Wilder participants and other residents at Hamline Hi-Rise. This has a big impact by providing a stimulating environment and reducing isolation. “There are a good group of people there,” Rich says. “We are getting new people at bingo all the time. We have a good time together!”

Rich is also quick to jump in to help with setup and other roles at Wilder special events to support multiple areas of the organization.

 “Volunteering is a win-win situation," he says. "The residents get something out of it. I get something out of it. They really appreciate working with people. They tell me how much they appreciate me, and they look forward to me coming. You actually see who benefits from your efforts.”