Chris Perme Wins Community Service Gold Award

Chris Perme, Skylight Associate in Garrettsville, is to receive Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company’s (MassMutual’s) prestigious Community Service Gold Award which recognizes field associates who are making an exceptional difference in their community.  Up against many worthy entrants, Chris won the award based on his outstanding volunteer commitment and community service efforts with non-profit Nelson Garrettsville Community Cupboard (NGCC), an agency member of Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank.  He will receive his award at MassMutual’s 2014 Leaders’ Conference in August in California and the Community Cupboard will receive a $10,000 grant.

On winning this award, Chris, who is a Board Member, volunteer, and advisor to the food outreach program, said, “I am very honored to be selected from amongst the many entrants for this award.  The grant of $10,000 couldn’t have come at a better time.  In March this year, our food bank was wiped out in a fire which destroyed one-third of Garrettsville’s business district. In the face of adversity, our team, with tremendous support from our community, has quickly responded and got back to the business of helping those in hunger.  As we start afresh, this funding will contribute greatly towards replacing much-needed food, shelving, refrigerators, freezers and office equipment.”

Michelle Elias, Director, and Co-Founder of NGCC, commented, “Perme is unique.  He knows how to get things done and his ability to see the “bigger picture” brings value to our organization in countless ways. He’s involved in everything from fundraising, marketing, long-term financial planning, and budgeting. His presence on the board has opened many doors to other individuals and organizations that have influenced the growth, development, and awareness of NGCC.  We are delighted that his tremendous contribution is being recognized through this award.”

NGCC opened its doors in February 2012 and has helped over 245 families.  Currently, over 657 residents are using the Cupboard – over 50% of which are vulnerable children and senior citizens.  Since beginning operations, more than 64,500 items of food have been distributed and the need is increasing. More than one in seven Ohio households are facing a daily risk of hunger or are food insecure – an increase of 71,000 households over last year.