46 Volunteers Honored For Helping Others In Harford Co.

BEL AIR, MD — A man who helps build beds for children who don't have a safe place to sleep. Another who has served as a volunteer firefighter for more than 60 years. A woman who helps others overcome addiction. These three people are among 46 volunteers recognized during Harford County's 40th annual Most Beautiful People Awards.

The ceremony honoring the unseen heroes and helpers held at the Bel Air Church of the Nazarene was attended by more than 270 people.

Hosted by Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly and the county's Department of Housing and Community Services, the celebration recognized 28 individual nominees along with volunteers nominated for group awards.

“I’m deeply grateful to these volunteers who support their neighbors and strengthen our community,” Cassilly said. “Their unwavering commitment, generosity and countless hours of service represent the very best of Harford County.”

In celebration of the awards' 40th anniversary, recipients from previous years were invited to attend.

Dave Moyer

Dave Moyer received the 2026 Harford's Most Beautiful Ripple Effect Award for his work helping children, feeding families and assisting people experiencing homelessness.

Nominated by BangTam Miller, Moyer volunteers with the Harford County chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit that builds, delivers and sets up beds for children who otherwise don't have a safe place to sleep.

He also helps feed residents in need, is a founding member of the 755 Alliance and serves as director of program services with the Hope for the Homeless Alliance.

The Ripple Effect Award recognizes volunteers whose work reaches beyond the people they directly help, creating a positive impact throughout the community.

Ruby Comer

Ruby Comer received the Shining Light Award for her work with the Bethesda Transformation Center, a faith-based nonprofit helping women recover from addiction, trauma, abuse, homelessness and other challenges.

The award recognizes volunteers who share their personal experiences to raise awareness about difficult issues and help others facing similar struggles.

Toys for Tots Volunteers

The volunteers with Toys for Tots of Harford County received the Most Beautiful Group Award for helping distribute a record 16,769 toys to 3,403 children.

According to county officials, the volunteers implemented new computer processes that allowed the organization to help more families than ever before.

William Lay

William "Bill" Lay received the Most Beautiful First Responder Award for dedicating more than six decades to the fire service.

Nominated by Donna Thomas, Lay was recognized for more than 60 years of service with the Joppa-Magnolia Volunteer Fire Company, the Harford-Cecil Firemen's Association and the Maryland State Firemen's Association.

Others Recognized

Other volunteers recognized during the ceremony included John Blake, April and Marcus Cheatham, Rebecca Dougherty, Andrea Ensor, Megan Ewing, Ron Filling, Jacob Gibbons, Steve and Sherri Glock, Deanna Hoppe, Genene LaCour, Javier Nieto, Jim and Dani Rice, Anna Rogers, Angela Rose, Stacy Sawyers, Adam Shellenbarger, Edward Smith, Rosalie Smith, Paula Van Hart, Ronita Walker, Krista Wilkinson and Lisa Wright.

Members of the Mountain Christian Backpack Blessings ministry also were honored.