Donna Puzella – 2023 Volunteer of the Year
City of Summit
At the March 21, 2023 Common Council meeting, Donna Puzella of Summit was recognized by Mayor Nora Radest and members of Common Council with the 2023 Volunteer of the Year award for her dedicated service to the Summit community.
“We are incredibly grateful for Donna Puzella and all that she has done for our city,” explains Summit Mayor Nora Radest. “Her dedication and commitment to residents of all ages, other business owners, and the many organizations in Summit, is truly inspiring. We are honored to recognize Donna as our Volunteer of the Year.”
Donna is a third generation Summit resident and co-owns Sweet Nothings with her sister Elisa. Their shop provides a safe spot for children in the community when they are waiting for a ride, need someone to talk to or request assistance with a class project.
Donna’s contributions include supporting the Summit Free Public Library’s summer reading program and Department of Community Programs events, volunteering at the farmers market GIFT table for GRACE, and making donations to countless school events. Donna was an active member of Summit Downtown, Inc. and has been involved with supporting and volunteering at EPIC School, an educational institution for children and adults with autism. Working with her nephew Zachary Brooks, Donna has brought awareness to individuals affected by developmental disabilities with their “We All Fit Together” initiative.
In 2018, Donna received the Women of Excellence Business Leadership award from the Union County Commission on the status of Women and in 2019, the Good Scout award from the Boy Scouts.
Radest continues: “The Volunteer of the Year award is presented annually to a volunteer who has shown exceptional dedication and commitment to the City of Summit. The award is a testament to the importance of volunteerism in our community and the impact that individuals can make when they give their time and talents to support worthy initiatives.”
Past recipients of the Volunteer of the Year Award include Annette Dwyer, Rev. Denison Harrield, Beth Lovejoy, Marian Glenn, and Tom O’Rourke.
For more information on the City of Summit or volunteer opportunities, please visit the city website.
