The 38th Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County will be presented to Robert and Mary Ellen Zickl of Batavia on Friday, December 1, at an awards luncheon at noon at Terry Hills Restaurant. The award presented by The Jerome Foundation recognizes volunteer men and women of Genesee County who have helped promote emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of the area’s residents.  Nominations reflected “ordinary people who reach far beyond themselves to the lives of those in need, bringing hope, care, and friendship, and helping build a stronger, healthier community.”

In naming Mr. and Mrs. Zickl for this year’s award, The Jerome Foundation will recognize them for their many humanitarian and volunteer efforts.  The Zickls were nominated by Mrs. Karen Green, Principal of St. Joseph’s School.  She notes, “Bob and Mary Ellen have opened their home to countless children over the years, whether it be a short stay or a long one.  The loving, compassionate and safe home that they provide has lasting memories and effects on all those who are familiar with them.  In two instances in particular, they opened their home to children who were not their own, but who were treated as members of their family, with much love and support during particularly challenging times.  I know they will forever consider the Zickl home to be their own.” 

Both Bob and Mary Ellen have given countless hours of volunteer time to St. Joseph School and Notre Dame High School.  Bob currently serves on the ND Board of Directors and St. Joseph School Board.  He volunteers on the sidelines coaching ND football, as well as organizing and supervising athletes in the weight room, always promoting good fitness and healthy choices.  Mary Ellen is Foundress of All Babies Cherished and currently is involved in the Rosary Society at Ascension Parish, chairing several committees.  Both Bob and Mary Ellen are Ascension Church lectors.  

Bob Zickl is an Assistant District Attorney for Genesee County.  Mary Ellen is a retired Special Education Teacher.   They have five children and reside in the City of Batavia.  

The Health and Humanitarian Award luncheon is open to the public.  Tickets are $30 and may be purchased by mailing a check to The Jerome Foundation, PO Box 249, Batavia, New York 14021. For information call Chris Fix at 356-3419 or by email to [email protected].  Seating will be limited and reservations are encouraged by Nov. 24.