Junior League of Summit Announces 2021 Gano Award Recipient

The Junior League of Summit (JLS) is proud to announce that Marie Avagliano has been chosen as the recipient of the annual Jean Hudson Gano Community Service Award for 2021. This award is given annually to recognize outstanding contributions to the community by either an individual or a nonprofit organization.

The award is given in memory of, and in tribute to, Jean Hudson Gano. Gano was a JLS member, mother of three, and outstanding community volunteer who passed away from breast cancer in May of 1997 at the age of 41. Jean's exemplary and extraordinary commitment to volunteerism, community service and particularly to issues regarding women and children, was an inspiration to all those who were touched by her efforts.

Our award winner, Marie Avagilano is a highly devoted, active member of our community. The long-time Summit resident has been involved with the Connection's Pathways Program for a number of years. As a patient educator, Marie educates healthcare professionals about the perspectives, stresses and needs of women with cancer, enabling the providers to become more empathetic and interpersonally effective at providing care. Right before the pandemic, Marie served on Pathway's Silver Anniversary Committee helping to raise $42,000 for the program. Marie has also been a long-standing volunteer mentor at her church, St. Teresa of Avila, and she has served the elders in our community through her weekly Meals-on-Wheels deliveries with SAGE Elder Care. Through Meals-on-Wheels Marie is able to engage members of her community who often have no other outlet for sustained relationships.

In addition to all this wonderful volunteer work, Marie is the manager of the Junior League of Summit’s Thrift Shop. During the pandemic, Marie volunteered numerous additional hours of her time, ensuring the Shop continued to thrive and provide a much-needed service to our community.

“Marie’s heart-felt actions within the community exemplify the spirit of the Junior League of Summit. She is a leader who unrelentingly serves those in need with the grace and dignity that they deserve,” expressed Junior League of Summit President, Tara Charvat. “We are so very proud to have Marie represent our organization every day as she assists customers in the Shop. Marie truly has the heart of a volunteer.”

Marie’s commitment to her community was also recognized by Union County with a SHero award for her community support during the pandemic.

The Junior League of Summit is a nonprofit, charitable, and educational organization of women who are committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. For more information about the Junior League of Summit or to inquire about becoming a member, please visit the website at www.jlsummit.org or contact the office at 908-273-7349. Those interested in donating to the League, please visit https://www.jlsummit.org/?nd=donate_summary.