Staff Reports
Volunteer Florida, the governor’s commission on volunteerism and community service, gave its official Champions of Service award to two lawmakers Thursday.
Sen. Gwen Margolis of Miami and Rep. Marlene O’Toole of The Villages were honored with the award in a ceremony in the state capitol.
“It is an honor to recognize members of the Florida Legislature who have demonstrated a true commitment to volunteerism and service,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Chester Spellman. “Senator Margolis and Representative O’Toole are passionate about volunteering and serving with nonprofit organizations in their districts, as well as representing their constituents at the Capitol.”
Margolis, the longest-serving member of the Florida Senate and a Democrat, is known for involvement in a host of local charitable and civil service organizations, as is O’Toole, a Republican who chairs the House Education Committee.
“From promoting economic development in under-served communities to mentoring at-risk young people to advocating for women’s issues, these legislators are public servants in every sense of the word. It is an honor to recognize exceptional Champions of Service from the Florida Senate and House of Representatives,” Spellman said.
The agency says the state award is for outstanding community service and civic engagement.
