Jefferson Matters recently announced this year’s recipient of a major volunteer award. 

Pat Richards is the 2025 Above and Beyond the Call (ABC) Award winner, as she joins an extensive list going back to 1977 when the ABC Award was established. According to Jefferson Matters, the ABC Award is given to an individual or a couple who exemplifies leadership and volunteerism, and Executive Director Matt Wetrich is excited for Richards.

He tells Raccoon Valley Radio he can’t think of anyone else that exemplifies going above and beyond for the betterment of the community than Richards. Wetrich points out that Richards’ more notable role is with her involvement with the Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower and serving as the Tour Guide Coordinator for over ten years. He describes Richards as someone who will do everything in her power and then some, to be accommodating and welcoming to visitors both near and far, while also selling the warmth and charm that Jefferson embraces. 

Richards will be highlighted at this Sunday’s Community Appreciation Event this Sunday at 2pm at the Courtyard Wedding and Events Center in Jefferson. Wetrich adds that this year’s Forces Under 40 will also be recognized with Clancy Clawson, Bridgette Heisterkamp, Bailey Mount and Lyndsey Wathen as the 2025 Induction Class. Sunday’s program is free and open to the public.