A City Star Award was presented to Chuck Koelker by the Cumberland Mayor and City Council during their November 18, 2014 public meeting.
Koelker was recognized for his work as the President of Tri-State Toys for Happiness, a local non-profit organization that distributes gifts for the holiday season to children in need throughout the community. Last year, Toys for Happiness helped more than 1,800 area children and more than 70,000 since its inception in 1981. In presenting the award to Koelker, Mayor Grim thanked him for his service to the community stating that, “Chuck has given his time, talent and energy for the past 26 years to help ensure that the needs of area children are meet during this special time of the year. He is one of the unsung heroes of our community who do so much, but seldom get recognized for their contribution.” Koelker is also a member of Cumberland Fire Fighters Local 1715, which is the sponsoring organization.
Mayor Grim also noted that efforts are made year-round to raise funds for Toys for Happiness, and he encouraged citizens to consider donating to this worthy cause.
The City Star Award program was designed to recognize the unsung heroes in the community who have made a positive impact, but whose efforts may have gone unnoticed or unrecognized. Nominations for the City Star Award may be submitted in writing to the Cumberland Mayor’s Office, 57 N. Liberty Street, Cumberland, MD 21502 or by email or online.