Benevilla Phoenix Volunteer, Mike Heath receives SRP President’s Volunteer Spirit Award

May 10, 2018

Charles Michael “Mike” Heath, a longtime Phoenix volunteer with Benevilla was 1 of 5 Salt River Project employees chosen to receive the SRP Presidents’ Volunteer Spirit Award in honor of their tireless dedication to their communities. The award recognizes employees who are leaders in devoting countless hours to a non-profit organization and who serve as examples of the power of caring.

According to Benevilla President and CEO, Joanne Thomson, Mike Heath represents the “very best” of the Phoenix volunteers at the nonprofit organization that serves the needs of older adults, adults with disabilities, children and the families who care for them in the West valley.  “The Benevilla family is extremely grateful for all of our volunteers. We are especially proud of volunteers like Mike who truly live the Benevilla mission.”

For more than three years, Mike Heath has worked with Benevilla Home Services in the Peoria program.  As a “friendly visitor” he currently assists four older adults to continue living independently by providing transportation to doctor appointments, grocery shopping, picking up their mail, taking them on occasional outings and just lending an ear during friendly visits. Recently, he even picked up one Benevilla member for her birthday because otherwise she would have been alone. Heath says he takes pride in helping others and is proud to work alongside the hundreds of other Benevilla volunteers who have dedicated themselves to supporting their neighbors and community.

 “Actively supporting the communities we serve is central to our mission,” said SRP President David Rousseau. “These employees exemplify that responsibility and serve as a great example to the rest of us.  Congratulations to Mike Heath of Class 18.  He is the recipient of the SRP Volunteer Spirit Award because of his deep commitment and service as an outstanding “Friendly Visitor” with Benevilla. His dedication and willingness to go above and beyond for the members he supports is making a difference.”

Mike is very active in the Peoria community. He serves on several Boards for various community groups including the Peoria Historical Society and Challenger Center and attends most Peoria City Council meetings.  He is also a graduate of the Leadership West Program.

Thank You to Mike for his support of Benevilla and the community.  The award not only recognizes the Phoenix volunteers but each non-profit receives a grant from SRP as well.