A local man known for his generosity, kindness and soft nature was the recipient of a prestigious volunteer award Tuesday night for his dedication and commitment to our community.
Princeton Rotary Club President Albert “Al” Brunelle was presented the 2022 AARP Kentucky Andrus Award for Community Service by Charlotte Whittaker, AARP Kentucky Volunteer State President.
click to download audio
Brunelle was nominated for the award by the local Rotary Club’s Executive Secretary Melissa Earnest for his impact on our community.
click to download audioBrunelle said this was a team effort and tried to hold back his emotions when he recognized his wife Pam, the club’s treasurer, for making it all possible.
click to download audio
According to AARP officials, Brunelle became an important part of the long-term recovery efforts following the deadly 2021 December tornadoes. His tireless work and endless hours of volunteering were instrumental in starting the Rotary District 6710 grant process for local disaster victims. The grants were available in the range of $10,000 each and Brunelle spearheaded the applications for the local Rotary Club. Pam Brunelle said the club received 16 grants for a total of $160,000 from the club’s district to help support families impacted by the tornado with some of those funds going toward furniture and appliances.
click to download audioThe club also used the grants to target youth in Caldwell County and Dawson Springs to help them cope by providing books about disasters so they can learn and grow from their experiences.
Prior to the award presentation, Rotary Governor District 6710 Nancy Stearman also spoke and pointed out that everything Al, Pam, and club members, have done has given the community hope and will lead others to volunteer.
click to download audioThe award presentation took place during the Princeton Rotary Club’s annual Thanksgiving Dinner held at Majestic House.
