Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski has named seven individuals as the recipients of the 2024 Community Heroes Awards. The awards, which recognize local leaders' significant contributions to improving the quality of life in their communities, were detailed in an announcement. According to the official Baltimore County news release, these community stakeholders are being celebrated for their advocacy and dedication, which make Baltimore County a better place to live and work.
In District 1, John Jay Dillow of the Southwest Visions Foundation is noted for his involvement and leadership in community enhancement efforts. As a President of the foundation, Dillow has been a key figure in expanding programs in partnership with the State's Department of Housing and Community Development. Deborah Patterson holds leadership positions from Pikesville within two community organizations and coordinates the National Night Out, an event focused on community safety and solidarity. Eric Rockel of the Greater Timonium Community Council is lauded for his advocacy work, representing the interests of his community as a voice in various governmental forums.
Chrissy Thornton leads the Associated Black Charities and is celebrated for her efforts to address social justice and equity. In 2023, she was recognized as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women, which is a testament to her influence and dedication to community empowerment. In District 5, Pat Keller's leadership at the Perry Hall Improvement Association has been instrumental in advancing veterans' commemoration projects and community development initiatives. Nancy Goldring of Northeast Towson Improvement Association is recognized for her preservation work in one of Baltimore County’s oldest historically Black communities.
The final awardee, Carlos Crespo, has dedicated more than two decades to uplifting underserved and immigrant communities through Crespo Productions and Nuestras Raices, Inc. His work includes distributing food boxes during emergencies and advocating for vital policies.
All awardees will be recognized at the county’s second-annual Community Leaders Summit on September 26.
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