…by focusing on needs greater than one’s self, you and your team have nurtured a value of togetherness and community from which the rest of us will benefit for decades to come.
This letter was sent to Gerald and Fred Donovan. A copy was sent to The Calvert Recorder.
I believe I speak for our entire county when I say “thank you” for 30 years of devoted service to the fight against cancer.
The Cancer Gala/Celebration of Life has become a standard for philanthropy in Calvert County. Not only have you raised enormous amounts of money to help find a cure for a disease that eventually impacts every one of our lives, you helped create an entire culture of charity in Calvert.
Every charity and community organization stands on the shoulders of the work you have done. By raising awareness, by bringing people together, by focusing on needs greater than one’s self, you and your team have nurtured a value of togetherness and community from which the rest of us will benefit for decades to come.
Perhaps most moving is that in addition to supporting the American Cancer Society, you have generously supported countless other causes in our county. All done quietly and without fanfare; the mark of true generosity.
Thirty years is a long time and you have earned the right to exit the stage with grace.
We applaud your efforts and we admire your passion. At the same time, we show true honor to your commitment by keeping aflame the torch of compassion, giving and true generosity you have nurtured among us.
Again, thank you. We know you did not do it for the thanks, a quality which makes us ever the more grateful.
May God bless you and those you love.
The Rev. Robert P. Hahn, Huntingtown
The writer is the chairman of End Hunger In Calvert County.