ServeOhio

Today we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Pamela Steurer as she concludes her tenure as Commission Chair. Pamela has served as a commissioner for nine years, spending much of that time on the executive committee and leading as Chair for the past several years.
Her steady leadership, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering commitment have shaped our work in meaningful ways. We are deeply grateful for her consistent service and the time, energy, and care she has poured into this commission.
Please join us in thanking Pamela for her outstanding contributions and in wishing her all the very best in her next chapter. Her impact will be felt for years to come.

🌟 ServeOhio Award Recipient Spotlight 🌟
Celebrating Steve Hanson from the Stratford Ecological Center!
Over the past three years, Steve has contributed nearly 1,500 volunteer hours, becoming one of Stratford’s most dedicated and trusted volunteers. In 2025 alone, he gave 600+ hours, working with nearly 500 children through camps, preschool programs, farm school, and field trips—often providing their first hands‑on experiences with gardening, food systems, and nature.
Steve mentors new volunteers, leads garden teams, and helps maintain two greenhouses and 30+ raised beds, supporting Stratford’s donation of 3,000+ pounds of produce to People In Need of Delaware County. He has trained 25+ volunteers, supported major events, and plays a key role in youth education, food security, and community engagement.
Thank you, Steve, for your leadership, reliability, and heartfelt commitment! 💙🌱

🌟 ServeOhio Award Recipient Spotlight 🌟
Celebrating Khushi Bhagat, Gabrielle Middleton, and Mia Walker from Hudson High School’s Our Time to Shine (OTTS) inclusive theater program!
OTTS gives students with disabilities the chance to shine in full community productions. Khushi and Gabrielle have each volunteered for more than three years and six shows, while Mia has supported three productions over two years. Together, they dedicate 35–40 hours per show helping 18 student actors learn lines, dances, ASL elements, and routines—while also leading warmups, writing scripts, creating choreography, and preparing sets.
Their commitment ensures every actor receives personalized support and that families and the Hudson community can celebrate a meaningful, fully inclusive theater experience.
Thank you for championing inclusion and creativity! 💙🎭

🌟 ServeOhio Award Recipient Spotlight 🌟
Celebrating the Teen Buddy Program in City of Dublin, Ohio - Government.
Created during the pandemic to reduce isolation among older adults, the Teen Buddy Program has grown into a powerful intergenerational initiative. Since 2020, it has connected 200+ teens and seniors, building 100+ lasting friendships through conversations, visits, and shared activities.
In 2025 alone, 34 participants logged 620 service hours, contributing to 3,720 hours since the program began. Volunteers receive careful training and support to ensure safe, meaningful engagement that reduces loneliness, builds teen confidence and empathy, and fosters mentorship as seniors share their wisdom and experiences.
Today, the Teen Buddy Program stands as one of Dublin’s strongest community connections—enriching lives across generations. 💙🤝