The strength of the West Side Ecumenical Ministry (WSEM) is in the people who help deliver the services to those who need us most. Each year, WSEM pays special tribute to a volunteer who exemplifies service beyond self. This past year, we could not pick just one volunteer, but instead we chose two individuals.

Donna Hawk and Jim Cline of St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Mentor share the distinction of being the 2008 WSEM Food Centers Volunteer of the Year. Donna and Jim have spent a decade each volunteering at the Near West Food Center Meal Program at St. Patrick's Church, St. Mary's sister church here in Cleveland. They lead a group of 12 volunteers who host the meal 30 times a year.

Jim, who has been a parishioner of St. Mary's for 40 years, cooks the meals. Donna, a parishioner of St. Mary's for nearly 20 years, coordinates the details of the meals. Donna credits the volunteers of St. Mary's for their hard work. “Our church has wonderful volunteers!... We are blessed, and cannot take the credit of volunteering as if I was by myself! Our church and our St. Pat's group is truly my extended family along with all the blessings from God!”

Congratulations and thank you,
Donna and Jim!