Volunteer Service Award

Learn about the Volunteer Service Award at First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond. We celebrate and honor the dedicated individuals whose exceptional volunteer efforts strengthen our congregation and embody our core values of care and community.

Honoring the Heart and Dedication of Our Volunteers

At First Unitarian Universalist RVA, our community thrives because of the incredible generosity and dedication of our members. The Volunteer Service Award is our way of recognizing those outstanding individuals who give selflessly of their time, talents, and energy to support our ministries and care for our congregation. Their tireless efforts behind the scenes and on the front lines embody the true spirit of our shared covenant. Join us in celebrating these extraordinary people who help make our church a deeply supportive, well-run, and welcoming spiritual home for everyone.

First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond

The Ian M. Finlayson Service Award is given quarterly to a church member who has made outstanding volunteer contributions to the church over a sustained period of time and/or through a special project of great significance.

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Ian M. Finlayson and Kathleen VanPaaschen

This award, begun in 2002 and previously named the Volunteer Chalice Award, was renamed in 2014 to honor Ian M. Finlayson and his deep commitment to volunteer service as a longtime member at First UU. Ian was the Chair of the Membership Committee for many years and also helped to create and present the new member orientation program. In addition, he was a devoted volunteer to the Setup and Design committee of Gallery at First UU as a way of expressing his appreciation for fine art. In all of his service, Ian was both a quiet leader and a generous mentor.

Nomination Forms can be filled out for future volunteer service award recipients with this Google form. A list of the past service award recipients are available here.

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