Five Standout Volunteers Honored for Work in Community

ALBUQUERQUE – Mayor Tim Keller and the City of Albuquerque acknowledged 5 exceptional people with One Albuquerque and Volunteer of the Month awards, heralding their service to the community. The awards were presented by the Mayor at the Alvarado Transportation Center on Thursday.

 The following were praised for their ongoing contributions: 

 One Albuquerque Award winners include:

• August – Michael Herrera, Solid Waste Dept. Supervisor

Herrera is a supervisor who takes the time to make sure trash is never missed and residents are always taken care of.

• September – Marie Morra, New Mexico Rail Runner

Mora organizes free trips to the National Cemetery in Santa Fe and organizes several events for veterans.

Volunteers of the Month include:

• July – Althea May Atherton, ABQ RIDE Ambassador

Atherton volunteers her time and created the training for other volunteer ambassadors. She trains people to use the mobile app, helps plan trips, and makes sure busses are accessible to all.

• August – Cathy Dean, Hospice Volunteer at Bosque Trails Hospice
  Dean supports vital office operations at Bosque Trails by making sure patients, families and volunteers are cared for. Dean also gives back through supporting veterans with a variety of programs, including making 500 wreaths for the VA Hospital.
• September – Henry Torres, National Alliance on Mental Illness

As a member of the NAMI Albuquerque Board of Directors, Torres helps manage and set policy for NAMI. He is passionate about providing support throughout the organization and reduce the stigma of mental illness.

These awardees demonstrate the meaningful impact of actively giving back to the community. From coordinating trips for older adults to going out of their way for residents, these awardees’ efforts exemplify the range of ways everyday people can get involved.

 “There are so many ways to make a difference,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “I hope more people will follow the example of these volunteers in finding something that speaks to their heart and also does the City good.” 

 The One Albuquerque and Volunteer of the Month awards are given to City workers and community members who go above and beyond in their service to the public by volunteering. These awardees help make our city stronger with their dedication to service.

“As ABQ Ride Ambassadors we are hospitality workers and have the honor to make riders feel welcome and safe,” said Althea Atherton, One Albuquerque awardee.

If you’d like to nominate someone or get involved in a volunteer activity, visit cabq.gov/office-of-civic-engagement or oneabqvolunteers.com.

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