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Giving back: Catalyst Award winners announced

By Journal Staff 3 min read

MARQUETTE -- Several local groups have been selected as recipients of the annual Catalyst Awards by the board of trustees of the Community Foundation of Marquette County.

A Catalyst Award "recognizes the efforts of those that help build community through volunteerism or philanthropy and inspire others to do the same -- those that go 'above and beyond' for our community," organizers said in an announcement.

Each year, the foundation's board nominates individuals, organizations and businesses to receive Catalyst Awards.

However, organizers said this year's awards are "a little different, as they recognize those who have joined together in the spirit of community despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Not only do these awardees embrace the community foundation's spirit of volunteerism and philanthropy, but they do so with an innate sense of caring for others."

The recipients, along with a summary of why the board selected each recipient, are listed below:

≤ Health care workers in Marquette County are being recognized with an award for their efforts, particularly in the past year, "for all they have done keeping us safe, informed and cared for during the COVID-19 pandemic," according to the announcements.

This award recognizes all staff of the many health care facilities in Marquette County -- hospitals, clinics, outpatient services, pharmacies, hospice, elder care facilities, the health department -- to name a few.

"While we know the pandemic is not over, we hope this award brings well deserved recognition and shows the community's appreciation," organizers said.

≤ The Hematites Building Better Neighborhoods program is recognized for its work eliminating blight surrounding the Ishpeming Middle/ High School campus while giving students an opportunity to learn math and construction techniques in a hands-on setting.

Students from the Ishpeming High School Industrial Arts Program have completed two major projects, including the construction of a new gazebo, and renovating a formerly abandoned home across the street from the school, organizers said.

"With the assistance of the Marquette County Land Bank and local businesses, these students are helping to build a better neighborhood while gaining valuable hands-on learning experiences," the announcement states.

≤ School employees in Marquette County are being recognized for their efforts over the past year supporting students while navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to organizers.

"Teachers, administrators and staff have truly shown resilience as they navigated online learning and unprecedented health and safety measures while providing a positive educational experience for students, organizers said in the announcement. "From delivering online instruction to assembling extra meals for students during stay-at-home orders, school employees have been unwavering in their support for youth in Marquette County."

≤ The Masks for Marquette group of volunteers is recognized for its "extraordinary efforts to help keep our community safe during the COVID-19 pandemic," organizers said.

"Since March, Masks for Marquette has coordinated the production and distribution of thousands of handmade fabric masks, scrub caps, respirator covers and gowns for medical facilities, schools, front line workers and our most vulnerable populations," according to the announcement. "The Masks for Marquette project truly demonstrates the generous spirit and can-do attitude that defines our community."

The Community Foundation of Marquette County is a tax-exempt, nonprofit, publicly supported philanthropic organization with the long-term goal of building permanent endowed funds for the broad-based public benefit.

For more information on the foundation, visit cfofmc.org or call 906-226-7666.

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