Service Above Self Award

Service Above Self Award
Evio Giovanelli Service Above Self Award is a special recognition given to a non-Rotarian who has made a meaningful and lasting humanitarian impact in our community.
 
Nominee Criteria
Nominee must
  • ✔ Be at least 18 years of age
  • ✔ Reside or work in Milford, CT
  • ✔ Not be a Rotarian
The award recognizes individuals who:
  • Foster impactful and meaningful humanitarian service
  • Actively help others in the Milford community
  • Demonstrate compassion, leadership, and dedication
  • Serve through volunteer efforts (preferred)
  • Or go above and beyond in a paid role for the benefit of the community
What to Include in Your Nomination
Please provide
  • Why your nominee represents Service Above Self
  • Specific examples or stories of their community impact
  • Details of their humanitarian contributions
  • Any newspaper articles, testimonials, or supporting materials (if available)
Deadline for Submission – Each year by May 1st
 
Submit nominations to: DevonRotary@gmail.com
Subject Line: EVIO G. Nomination
 
Help Us Celebrate Those Who Serve Others First
Nominate someone today!
RECIPIENT 2026  ~ Christina Prete
Christina (Christie) Prete lives by a simple but powerful question: “How can I help?” That mindset has driven a lifetime of service to the Milford community, where she has consistently stepped forward to support others. From 13 years on the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross and a decade with the Milford Education Foundation, to her ongoing involvement with the Beth-El Center, All In For Milford, and the City’s Food Insecurity Group, Christie leads with both compassion and action. Her service also includes years of PTA/PTO leadership, serving as a Girl Scout Leader, donating over 11 gallons of blood, and recently joining the City of Milford Human Services Board.
 
Inspired by her father’s legacy of giving, Christie turned personal purpose into broader impact by creating the “Shopping Anyway” app and website through her LLC, Grace and Care—an innovative platform designed to help nonprofits grow support. Whether in formal roles like her time as Minority Leader on the Board of Education or through grassroots efforts, she not only serves but creates opportunities for others to give back. Her work across education, hunger relief, and community support truly embodies “Service Above Self.”
 
Recipient 2025 – Tom Mercaldo – Serves as a volunteer for the past 35 years running the THANKS-4-GIVING FOOD DRIVE for the Milford Community alongside Troop 1 Scouts.  Tom also runs a Charity P2H (Prepared To Help) providing Gift cards for those in need of food  and also scholarships for high school students.   His charitable acts band throughout the community and he embodies the Rotarian motto of “Service Above Self.”