2025 CARES AWARDS
In a heartfelt celebration of community spirit and selfless service, Livingston County CARES hosted its first-ever CARES Award Volunteer Recognition Event on April 10, 2025, at the historic Big Tree Inn in Geneseo.
The event marked the culmination of Livingston County’s newly declared Volunteer Month, with April 10 officially proclaimed Volunteer Appreciation Day by the Livingston County Board of Supervisors. More than 80 community members, leaders, and supporters gathered to recognize six outstanding finalists for the 2025 CARES Award:
Each finalist was honored for their exceptional volunteer service and community leadership and received a handcrafted piece of local art by artist Elizabeth Berry. Ms. Berry fashioned and framed gel plate monoprints, each in unique colors and all representing the Livingston County outline. Each finalist also received a Senate Citation from Senator Pamela Helming and a Certificate of Merit from Assemblywoman Andrea Bailey congratulating them on their accomplishments.
The evening’s top honor, 2025 CARES Volunteer of the Year, was awarded to Clare Van Durme, who was additionally presented with a unique piece of wood art created by well-known local artisan Jerry Alonzo. Mr. Alonzo titled the piece “A Place at the Table”. It is a picturesque bowl with perching birds made of maple burl, oak, gold leaf, and milk paint.
The evening's program was led by event co-chairs Lisa Burns and Angela Ellis, who guided the presentation and shared highlights of the impact of each honoree. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Tom Matthews, President of the Livingston County CARES Board of Directors, who reflected on the organization's 20-year history and the critical role of volunteers in its humanitarian mission. “This event is a tribute to the countless individuals who give their time and energy to serve others,” said Dr. Matthews. “Volunteers are the backbone of Livingston County CARES, and their compassion, dedication, and leadership continue to shape lives both here at home and in communities far beyond.”
This inaugural event not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored a shared commitment to volunteerism throughout Livingston County. With the enthusiastic support of the Board of Supervisors and the broader community, the CARES Award promises to become a cherished tradition—one that uplifts those who quietly and consistently make a difference.
Livingston County CARES wants to thank the generous sponsors and donors that helped make the event a success. Special thanks go to the Big Tree Inn for their hospitality, McClure Productions Inc. for the special music, Alexa Morris for photography of the event, Genesee Valley Florist for the floral arrangements and gift of flowers for the Volunteer of the Year, and Once Again for the local pride gift of almond butter given to all nominees and nominators.
Livingston County CARES is looking forward to celebrating volunteerism in Livingston County again next year at the 2nd Annual CARES Awards on Friday, April 10, 2026.