The North Branford Rotary Club 'Service Above Self' Awardees Announced

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — The North Branford Rotary this week announced the 2026 Service Above Self Award recipients: Rita and Phil Ney, Shaun Heffernan and Robert Deko Jr

"These exceptional individuals have been selected in recognition of their extraordinary dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on the North Branford community," the Rotary Club shared on Facebook.

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The awardees will be honored at a June 18 ceremony.

This annual award celebrates individuals who exemplify Rotary’s guiding principle of 'Service Above Self' through their outstanding commitment to community service, leadership, and humanitarian efforts, the Club explained.

"Each of this year’s recipients has demonstrated a deep and lasting impact on the North Branford community through volunteerism, civic engagement, and a dedication to improving the lives of others," they noted.

Phil and Rita Ney are being recognized for their transformative work in re-establishing the North Branford Community Food Bank.

"Identifying a growing need among local families, they turned compassion into action—investing countless hours and personal and community resources to bring the food bank to life," the Club said. "From securing and rebuilding a previously condemned space after long workdays, to organizing food drives, coordinating volunteers, and distributing food, they have been involved in every aspect of its success. What began as an idea has become a vital lifeline for many in the community. Beyond providing food, their efforts have restored dignity, inspired generosity, and strengthened community unity."

Shaun Heffernan is honored for a lifetime of public service and community leadership.

"A resident of North Branford for over 20 years, Shaun began his career as a volunteer firefighter and dispatcher, later becoming a paramedic and advancing to Assistant Chief and Fire Marshal for the Branford Fire Department," the Rotary Club noted.

Heffernan has also served as an instructor, mentoring future medical professionals and teaching Advanced Cardiac Life Support to healthcare providers.

"Outside of his professional roles, Shaun is deeply committed to community service—mentoring local youth through scouting programs and volunteering extensively with Camp Rising Sun, supporting children affected by cancer," the Club said. "His compassion and dedication have created lasting, meaningful experiences for countless families."

Robert Deko Jr. is recognized for more than two decades of distinguished service with the North Branford Police Department, as well as his extraordinary contributions beyond the badge.

"Known throughout the community for his compassion and leadership, Robert is the founder and director of Our Community Heroes Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families in need," according to the Rotary Club. "Through this organization and his personal efforts, he has raised significant funds, organized outreach initiatives, and provided direct assistance to those facing hardship."

A participant in the World Trade Center rescue mission, a mentor to youth, and a volunteer with numerous charitable causes, "Robert’s impact reaches far beyond his official duties. His work has strengthened trust, fostered connection, and exemplified the true meaning of service."

"The Service Above Self Award recognizes individuals whose actions define the very best of our community," said a representative of the North Branford Rotary Club. "This year’s honorees have each demonstrated an unwavering commitment to helping others, improving lives, and building a stronger, more compassionate North Branford."

The June 18 Service Above Self Awards dinner and ceremony will bring together community members, local leaders, and supporters to celebrate these remarkable individuals and their contributions.

The event will be held at The Woodwinds in Branford.

Buy tickets here.

Adult (age 11 and up) tickets are $50. Children (age 3-10) tickets are $25.

Have a question or need more information about the event; email northbranfordrotary@gmail.com or contact Melinda Fonda at 203-988-0883.