Press release:
The 29th annual Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County will be presented to Judith Ridley of Le Roy on Friday, Dec. 6 at an awards luncheon at Terry Hills Restaurant. The award presented by The Jerome Foundation and United Memorial Medical Center Foundation recognizes volunteer men and women of Genesee County who have helped promote emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of the area’s residents. Nominations should reflect “ordinary people who reach far beyond themselves to the lives of those in need, bringing hope, care, and friendship, and helping build a stronger, healthier community.”
In naming Judith Ridley for this year’s award, the foundations will recognize her volunteer efforts with the Le Roy Pantry and Help Fund, the Le Roy Volunteer Ambulance, Red Cross, and Friendship Club at the Greens in Le Roy.
Ms. Ridley has been an active volunteer for the Le Roy Pantry and Help fund for 14 years, and Board president for the past five years. She coordinates volunteers, writes grants, and solicits local supermarkets and food banks for donations. In 2012 under Judith’s leadership nearly 19,000 meals were served to 357 households in the Le Roy area. Thanksgiving and Christmas were particularly busy for the Le Roy Pantry, when 100 needy families were provided meals for the holidays. In her nominating letter Dorian Ely, coordinator of Genesee County’s RSVP volunteer program, said, “Although Judy has a strong team of volunteers, the Le Roy Pantry and Help Fund works because of Judy’s exceptional organizational skills, model work ethic, collaborative style and compassion for the neediest in our community.”
Ms. Ridley has also been active in the Le Roy Volunteer Ambulance Fund for 10 years. She keeps records for the organization, completes forms required by New York State, and other necessary duties to maintain the essential ambulance service. On average, Judith volunteers 30 to 35 hours each week.
At the Greens of Le Roy, Judith regularly helps other members of the Le Roy Friendship Club make items for Camp Good Days and Special Times and for newborns at UMMC. Judith is also active with the American Red Cross and the First Presbyterian Church of Le Roy, where she has served in various leadership positions. In her nomination letter June Dusen, a member of the First Presbyterian Church, said, “Judy is a woman of faith; she does not judge, shows kindness and respect for all. She works quietly behind the scenes, never seeking recognition.”
The Health and Humanitarian Award luncheon is open to the public. Reservations can be made by contacting United Memorial Medical Center Foundation at 344-5300. Seating will be limited so early reservations are encouraged.
