Community Spotlight: ABC 7 Kicks Off 7th Annual "Who Care" Awards

BRADENTON – ABC 7 is kicking off its 2^nd annual “7 Who Care” awards, a public service program to recognize Suncoast citizens who embody the spirit of volunteerism. To coincide with National Volunteer Month, ABC 7 is airing a public service announcement with News Anchors Scott Dennis and Lauren Dorsett all month in April, encouraging viewers to visit the station’s website, www.MySuncoast.com, to nominate an outstanding volunteer. Winners will be selected in May and recognized at a luncheon on Monday, July 8th. 7 Who Care honorees will also be profiled on ABC 7 News in July.

In making the announcement, Vice President & General Manager Jeff Benninghoff said, “Volunteers are vital to so many organizations here on the Suncoast. That’s why we believed it was important to create ‘7 Who Care,’ a program to honor those who give so selflessly to community.”  Benninghoff continued, “In our first year, we received heart-warming nominations for many worthy volunteers. We look forward to shining a spotlight on more of the Suncoast’s unsung heroes and championing their wonderful contributions to our community.”

ABC 7 invites Suncoast individuals and organizations to nominate someone who exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism, a person who inspires and motivates others with his or her passion and dedication to serving others. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, April 30^th.

For the second year, the United Way Suncoast and the United Way of Manatee County have generously agreed to lend their resources and expertise on volunteerism to this endeavor. 

Of their involvement, Benninghoff said, “The United Way played an important role in helping us get 7 Who Care off the ground in our first year, and we are very appreciative of their ongoing support.”

ABC 7/WWSB-TV is the ABC affiliate serving Florida’s Suncoast.