In 2017 a former seminary classmate of Father William Gordinier decided to honor the memory and life's work of his former classmate and good friend, who passed away in 2016. The donor, who has chosen to remain anonymous, began the process by offering a generous donation in the name of Father Gordinier. Subsequently a local committee was formed to decide how best to utilize that initial donation, in honoring the donor's wishes. 

 

The committee decided to establish the Father William Gordinier Community Services Award, to be given out annually. The year 2027 will mark the 10th anniversary of the creation of the award.  

For many years, Father Gordinier was the beloved pastor of St. Mary's Church in Geneseo, after having served as pastor in other communities throughout the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester. Fr. Bill, as he was affectionately known, was a kind, gifted, compassionate, and caring individual. Generous to a fault, he could not say no, welcoming everyone with open arms. To this day, many people in Livingston County and beyond recall his infectious laugh, and his dedication to caring for those in need. 

In remembrance of Father Bill's ecumenical spirit, and in keeping with the donor's wishes, the committee fashioned a nomination process to recognize volunteer contributions to the local community. 

Selection criteria is simple: YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE CATHOLIC TO BE ELIGIBLE! Anyone can be nominated, regardless of religion (or no religion), and regardless of race or ethnicity, male or female, older or younger, married or single, orientation, etc.  Anyone is eligible!

Originally the awards were given to individuals. In recent years, the committee has expanded the eligibility criteria to now include local non-for-profit agencies or organizations that evidence a commitment to social justice, community collaboration,  and promotion of the common good. 

Over the years, Fr. Bill's classmate has continued to support the fund. He is kept informed of the award recipients and the work they do. 

 

In addition to public recognition of individuals or organizations for their work, cash awards of up to $500 are made to recipients, with no strings attached. Recipients are free to use their cash award in any way they see fit, and no reports to the committee are required. Not surprisingly, many recipients have chosen to use the award monies to continue their volunteer work. Each August, the committee solicits nominations and all nominations are kept confidential. The process is simple, consisting of a written nomination of no more than 500 words. Awards are announced in September. 

 

In addition to the public recognition and cash awards, the names of all recipients are listed on a permanent plaque, displayed in the parish center of St. Mary's.  Watch for the “request for nominations” on this page and in the media in August. The Awards Committee salutes CARES and the Volunteer Recognition event.