Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.

Longtime volunteer to receive Philanthropy Day award

Date: 11/9/2011



By Debbie Gardner

Assistant Editor

SOUTHWICK — A local woman who has been working behind the scenes to do good in her community will soon share the limelight with other selfless individuals and organizations.

On Nov. 16, Barbara H. Braem-Jensen will be recognized at the Outstanding Volunteer in Fund-raising during the National Philanthropy Awards Luncheon at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House.

Emceed by Dave Madsen, managing editor of ABC40-Fox 6, the event, which is being hosted by the Association of Fund-raising Professionals, Western Massachusetts Chapter, Inc. (AFP), will also recognize John and Paula Gallup of Longmeadow as Outstanding Philanthropists of Hampden County, Sanford Belden of Hatfield as Outstanding Philanthropist of Hampshire County, Stephen Freyman of Longmeadow as Outstanding Young Philanthropist, Hannah Glick of Longmeadow as Outstanding Young Philanthropist and Fund-raiser and Nancy Reiche of Springfield as Outstanding Professional in Philanthropy.

Also slated for recognition that afternoon are: Smith & Wesson Holding Corp., Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation, Rick Lee, American Red Cross, AFP President’s Award and Major Thomas and Linda-Jo Perks, Greater Springfield Salvation Army, AFP President’s Award.

Patricia Burden, former director of Development for Stanley Park, told Reminder Publications she was responsible for nominating Braem-Jensen.

“Even though I was chair of the event, I was hoping they would choose her,” said Burden, who is also an AFP board member and chair of the local Philanthropy Day event. Burden said she first met Braem-Jensen when she was working at Elms College in Chicopee and approached the former Woronoco Savings Bank for funding Braem-Jensen was her bank contact at Woronoco Savings Charitable Foundation

“She has done so much for the community,” Burden said of Braem-Jensen’s volunteerism. “She has such a background of experience ... she does things in education, with [Noble] hospital [and] she works with Amelia Park.”

Burden said the Log Cabin celebration that recognizes Braem-Jensen and the other Western Massachusetts award recipients would be one of many taking place across the country on Nov. 16.

“It’s going to be a spectacular opportunity to thank these people,” she said.

In a press release about the event, Gary Coombs, president of AFP’s board said, “Over 30,000 people across North America join in this AFP-sponsored celebration of the generosity, time and financial support of individuals and companies. Their exceptional efforts inspire others to become involved.”

The Philanthropy Day Luncheon is open to the public, and tickets are $40 per person. To purchase a ticket, please contact Burden at 567-5521.

Debbie Gardner can be reached by e-mail at debbieg@thereminder.com



Bookmark and Share