Mayor Keller and First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller Recognize Albuquerque’s Outstanding Volunteers

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, Mayor Tim Keller, first lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller, along with the ABQ Volunteers Advisory Board hosted the annual Mayor’s Day of Volunteers ceremony. 

It brought together volunteers who have contributed their time and talents in a variety of meaningful ways. This year’s honorees go above and beyond. These neighbors step forward with their skills, their time and their generosity. From tradespeople who keep our most vulnerable warm in the winter to educators and advocates who prove that service is personal and powerful, they reflect the values of our city. 

“These volunteers don’t wait, they show up and make life better for all of us,” said Mayor Keller. “They fix what’s broken, they lift us up, and they show what service to our community looks like.”  

“I am honored and grateful to have this opportunity to celebrate the contributions of these outstanding volunteers today,” said First Lady Kistin Keller. “Their kindness and dedication are a shining example of what we can accomplish when we work together in the service of others.” 

This year’s award recipients are:  

• National Service Participant – Esther Lopez de Moreno, Senior Companion  

• Volunteer Group of the Year – Indian Pueblo Cultural Center 

• Corporate Volunteer Group of the Year – Local Assoc. of Plumbers and Pipefitters: Local Union 412 

• Youth Volunteer of the Year – Sahba Ghasempour, Simply Salud Clinic and Native Health Initiative 

• Older Adult Volunteer of the Year – Bruce Gronseth, The Dream Center 

• Lifetime Achievement Award – Olivia Rivera, Read to Me 

• Volunteer of the Year – Matthew Mallary, The Phoenix  

“This event is one of my favorite days of the year. The Volunteers Advisory Board works hard to bring this ceremony to life because our awardees truly deserve it,” said Miriam McIntosh, ABQ Volunteers Advisory Board Chair. “Today’s honorees work tirelessly to serve our community, and they deserve both meaningful recognition and a platform to elevate the initiatives they champion." 

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