SEQUIM – In a ceremony at the Clallam County Fire District 3 Board of Commissioners last week, “Serve Washington” presented the Washington State Volunteer Service Award to Blaine Zechenelly, Charles Meyer, and the Eastern Clallam County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

The Commissioners recognized Zechenelly for his dedication to volunteering and praised the Peninsula/Coastal award recipients and Eastern Clallam County CERT Program for their significant contributions, including 22,000 hours of service in 2023.

Special thanks were given to Charles Meyer for nominating the Eastern Clallam County CERT Program. The Board noted the program’s growth since 2016, serving nearly 40,000 residents with over 550 members. The program also played a key role in the COVID-19 vaccination effort, collaborating with local health services.

The award celebrates exceptional kindness shown by individuals, families, and service groups across Washington. Nominations for the award were open to all volunteers in the past year, with recipients selected by Serve Washington commissioners and community members.