MCT announces community heroes
Friday afternoon over "hero" sandwiches the Mauch Chunk Trust Company announced its annual Community Heroes.
During the customer appreciation afternoon, Lisa Vavra Hiles of Summit Hill, Dr. Clem McGinley of Jim Thorpe and Maureen C. Foster also of Jim Thorpe were introduced as the 2017 heroes for their volunteer work within the Carbon County community.The three community members will be recognized in June for their outstanding volunteer contributions.The award recipients were nominated by residents and will receive a $200 donation to the charity of their choice.This year's charities are the American Cancer Society, the Jim Thorpe Rotary Charitable Fund, Special Olympics of Carbon County and the Irish Pub Children's Foundation.Hiles is being recognized for her contributions and participation with almost a dozen committees or nonprofits including the Coaldale Church Choir, American Cancer Society, Zoostock Labor Day Annual Fundraiser and Relay for Life to name a few."After the first year with the telethon I was hooked," said Hiles of her volunteering efforts."I just love what I do, so that's an award with in it's self," she said.Dr. McGinley will be recognized for participating in Jim Thorpe Rotary, St. John's Summer Food Program, Dimmick Memorial Library and the American Cancer Society Telethon."I'm proud to be nominated with Lisa and Maureen," he said"They do great things in the community," said McGinley.Foster has been involved with Carbon County Special Olympics Management Team, the Eagle Scout Program, deliveries to the sick and shut-ins, and the local police department and fire company."I'm truly honored," she said."There really are just a lot of people who do great things with the community," said Foster.This year's banquet is the 18th annual banquet, an event that has recognized more than 100 volunteers since the program began in 2000."Volunteers don't often receive the recognition they deserve," said MCT President and CEO Patrick H. Reilly."We are proud to have the opportunity to honor these outstanding members of our community who selflessly donate their time and talents to help make our community a better place to live and work."A banquet will be held at Dean Anthony's in Jim Thorpe on June 29. The dinner and awards ceremony is open to the public. To reserve a seat at the dinner contact MCT at 570-325-2265 or visit site