SHARE

Norwalk's STAR Recognizes Contributions Of Supporters, Staff

NORWALK, Conn. -- STAR Inc., Lighting the Way held its 63rd annual meeting and recognition awards in Norwalk to elect new and returning board members and recognize the contributions of community partners, supporters, staff and clients from the previous year. 

STAR employee Joann D’Arinzo of Norwalk presents STAR client Lisa Griffin of Norwalk with the Jeannette Shivers Award for her exemplary year.

STAR employee Joann D’Arinzo of Norwalk presents STAR client Lisa Griffin of Norwalk with the Jeannette Shivers Award for her exemplary year.

Photo Credit: STAR, Inc.
Bob King of King Industries accepts the award for Community Volunteers of the Year with his staff who worked on the STAR café project, as well as STAR Board President Ken Harrington-Howes and, center rear, Director of Philanthropy Peter Saverine.

Bob King of King Industries accepts the award for Community Volunteers of the Year with his staff who worked on the STAR café project, as well as STAR Board President Ken Harrington-Howes and, center rear, Director of Philanthropy Peter Saverine.

Photo Credit: STAR, Inc.
Norwalk student Barry Turner receives Youth Volunteer of the Year award, with Ken Harrington-Howes, president of the STAR board, several STAR clients that work with Barry when he volunteers, and Jill Schreckengost, manager of Recreational Programs.

Norwalk student Barry Turner receives Youth Volunteer of the Year award, with Ken Harrington-Howes, president of the STAR board, several STAR clients that work with Barry when he volunteers, and Jill Schreckengost, manager of Recreational Programs.

Photo Credit: STAR, Inc.
Norwalker Linda Kriewald with STAR Executive Director Katie Banzhaf and President Obie Harrington-Howes.

Norwalker Linda Kriewald with STAR Executive Director Katie Banzhaf and President Obie Harrington-Howes.

Photo Credit: STAR, Inc.
Norwalker Linda Kriewald, on right, presents Employer of the Year Award to Melka Chiari, supervisor at Whole Foods for her outstanding relationship with Norwalker Charlie Sherman.

Norwalker Linda Kriewald, on right, presents Employer of the Year Award to Melka Chiari, supervisor at Whole Foods for her outstanding relationship with Norwalker Charlie Sherman.

Photo Credit: STAR, Inc.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, state Reps. Gail Lavielle and Fred Wilms attended the event and spoke during the program. STAR’s Rubberband performed for the event. 

Allison Rhodes-Jacobsen of Wilton was confirmed to the board. Board members nominated for a second term included Assaf Ben Atar of Norwalk, Mickey Herbst of Westport, Mary Kennedy of Weston, Joseph Viesta of Stamford and Jack McFadden of Wilton. 

President Kenneth (Obie) Harrington-Howes of Darien led the meeting, and STAR Executive Director Katie Banzhaf led the awards portion of the program. 

Norwalk residents who were recognized at the meeting were: Diane Piorkowski, who received the Jo Mercede Volunteer of the Year Award; Bob King and King Industries of Norwalk, who were recognized as Community Volunteers of the Year; Barry Turner, who was awarded Youth Volunteer of the Year; Linda Kriewald, who received a STAR Heroes’ Award; and Lisa Griffin, who received the Jeannette Shivers Award. 

Darien residents who were recognized at the meeting were: Katrine Ryan, who created and produced a biopic video about Norwalk STAR client Billy Tolles called, “STAR, Inc., Lighting MY Way”; Melka Chiari, supervisor at Whole Foods Darien; and Harrington-Howes, who was recognized for his loyal service and support of STAR. 

Wilton residents who were recognized were: Lavielle, who was presented with the Humanitarian Award for her support and contributions at the legislative and state levels; and Barry and Judy Bosworth, who received the Anne O’Callaghan Parent of the Year Award. 

Danbury residents Lisa Parille and Melissa Vanasse were awarded STAR Heroes’ Awards. 

Milford resident Mark Filanowski and Filanowski & Sons were presented with the Corporate Volunteer of the Year Award. 

Bridgeport residents Shea Davis and Ashley Herring were awarded STAR Heroes’ Awards. 

STAR Inc., Lighting the Way is a not-for-profit organization serving individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities, as well as providing support services to their families. 

to follow Daily Voice Norwalk and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE