NCLR AmeriCorps members and program directors came together for a special evening of recognition and remembrance on July 17 in Philadelphia. This year’s Recognition Dinner included the presentation of the First Annual NCLR AmeriCorps Awards, honoring excellence in service among members serving at NCLR AmeriCorps operating sites. Former NCLR President and CEO, Raul Yzaguirre, gave the keynote address, in which he spoke of the importance of community service and civic engagement. Current NCLR President Janet Murguia and Director of AmeriCorps for the Corporation for National and Community Service, Rosie Mauk, spoke as well – congratulating members on their commitment to their communities and exemplary service.

AmeriCorps members were nominated by their program directors and fellow members for awards from eight different categories. The Unity Council’s Erica Soto took home the top honor of AmeriCorps Outstanding Member of the Year, and the Latin American Youth Center was chosen as Best Corps. The committee in charge of selecting recipients for the awards recognized the difficulty in choosing the winners and congratulated all of the nominees for their hard work.

The evening’s presentation included an emotional remembrance for an AmeriCorps member who tragically lost his life late last year. David Iacullo served with the AmeriCorps program at the Association House of Chicago. In December, David lost his life in a house fire unrelated with his AmeriCorps service. Several members of David’s family were in attendance, and his mother made heartfelt remarks emphasizing her son’s commitment to his community.

The emcee for the event was Jonathan Williams, Diversity Director for the Corporation for National and Community Service. The mood of the speakers and guests was altogether celebratory, as everyone reflected on a great year of service.

List of award winners:
Outstanding Member of the Year: Erica Soto, The Unity Council
NCLR Best Corps Award: Latin American Youth Center
Raul Yzaguirre Leadership Award (tie): Eric Bustamante: Luz Social Services, Inc.
Raul Yzaguirre Leadership Award (tie): Ambrosia Johnson, Youth Development, Inc.
Team Member of the Year: Chanthalangsy Keomanichanh, The Unity Council
Con Ganas Award: Maria Navarrete, Latin American Youth Center
Metamorphosis Award: Rosalyn Sanchez, The Unity Council
Embracing Community Literacy Award: Brian McArthur, Luz Social Services, Inc.
Assuring Continuing Development: Esperanza Rodriguez, Instituto del Progreso Latino