Five Volunteers Honored for Contributions to Community

Today, Mayor Tim Keller recognized five outstanding individuals with the Volunteer of the Month and One Albuquerque Awards, celebrating their dedication to making a lasting impact in the community.

The following community members were recognized for their steadfast service, which include helping local gardens flourish, rescuing neglected and abandoned pets, mentoring the next generation of STEM innovators, and providing resources and support to vulnerable populations.

• Volunteer Award Recipients:
• Paula Pond – Multiple nonprofits. Pond has organized collection drives and volunteers to ensure seniors, families experiencing homelessness, and new mothers in our community have the essentials they need.
• Mary and Terry Casper – City of Albuquerque Greenhouse. The Caspers are two of the City’s longest-serving greenhouse volunteers and recently revitalized the gardens to yield a greater vegetable harvest.

• One Albuquerque Award Recipients:
• Kevin Walker – National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Jr. Program. Walker coaches and invests in students so that young people from all backgrounds can build futures in STEM.
• Melissa-Lou Ellis – Animal advocate. Ellis has personally rescued 623 animals and found homes for every single one.

These awardees demonstrate the value of volunteerism in creating a strong and connected city. From assisting families and seniors in need, to promoting sustainability, animal welfare, and education, their efforts showcase the many ways volunteers can make a lasting difference.

“Albuquerque is stronger because of folks like these who dedicate their time, energy, and spirit to lifting up our community,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “They’re making a real impact in this city, demonstrating that we all have skills and passions we can offer to help one another.”

“I am truly humbled and honored to receive this community service award,” said Melissa-Lou Ellis. “This award isn’t just about me—it’s about the collective efforts to make Albuquerque a better place.”

Mayor Tim Keller also signed a proclamation recognizing AmeriCorps Week in Albuquerque, celebrating the role of AmeriCorps VISTA and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in supporting our communities.

The City of Albuquerque is committed to connecting residents with meaningful service opportunities in their neighborhoods. Through partnerships with various departments and community organizations, the City offers countless ways for people to make a difference.

If you are interested in nominating someone or getting involved in a volunteer activity, visit the Office of Civic Engagement's website.