Volunteer of the Year
Each of our volunteer recreation councils has nominated a “Volunteer of the Year” for 2025. Below, click on each volunteer to learn about each Volunteer of the Year and read about their many contributions. We, along with their recreation councils, thank them for their many contributions and accomplishments. To the award winners: what you have done is truly special and made an impact on your community. While you are one from your council, we know you are among many and we recognize and honor your accomplishments and by association, those who serve alongside you.
In addition, 2025 marks the ninth year of inductees in the Carroll County Recreation and Parks Volunteer Hall of Fame. To be considered for this honor, volunteers must have served at least twenty (20) years and made significant contributions resulting in a lasting impact over time. This year’s class includes the Malachowski Family, Toni Chiavacci, and Brad Rockwood. These folks are the best of the best and hold a special place in our history and hearts. Congratulations to these great volunteers who have helped shape and contribute to our department’s success for many years.
Congratulations to our 2025 Volunteers of the Year and our Volunteer Hall of Fame Inductees!
Volunteer Hall of Fame 2025 Inductees
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Frank BaylorFrank Baylor has been a Carroll County Arts Council volunteer for over 25 years and his service to the arts and our community has never flagged or faltered. He singlehandedly leads our merry band of 20+ volunteers that make up the Arts Council’s film club, the Film Lovers in Carroll County (FLICC). Frank also handcrafted the Perpetual Wreath in 2003 for the Council’s annual silent auction fundraiser, the Festival of Wreaths after being inspired by the creativity he had seen over the years as a volunteer and bidder. The Perpetual Wreath is an ironwork wreath that reappears in the festival each year with Frank Baylor fashioning a new leaf with the name of that year’s winner on it. In addition to metalwork, Frank is our go-to guy when we need architectural plans drawn up to consider potential renovations to the building, and he makes sure our outdoor tents do not blow away at community events. From late night movie shifts to early morning Art in the Park set-up shifts, Frank is not only dependable, friendly, and resourceful, he is always forming connections and inviting more people to play an active role in our community. For the past twenty years, Frank has been on and off our Board of Directors, which is a voluntary leadership role that helps guide CCAC staff towards fulfillment of our mission. With witty jokes, insightful ideas, and a generous, congenial spirit, Frank has played a crucial role in connecting, inspiring, and creating community in Carroll County. |
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Ray OwingsWith over 30 years of devoted volunteer service, Ray Owings has been a driving force behind both youth and adult softball in Carroll County. In 1968, he and the Westminster Jaycees launched a youth softball program to provide girls with much-needed summer recreation opportunities. Just a year later, Ray became President of the league, a role he held from 1969 to 1990, guiding its tremendous growth and success. The league quickly outgrew its original sites at West and East Middle Schools and eventually moved to Jaycee Park, a facility made possible through Ray’s leadership and support. In 1991, Ray took on a new role as President of the Carroll County Men’s Softball League, overseeing 32 teams and nearly 500 players. Thanks to his vision and dedication, countless youth and adults have enjoyed playing softball at both Jaycee Park and the Carroll County Sports Complex—and will continue to benefit from his legacy for generations to come. We are proud to recognize Ray Owings as a 2025 inductee into the Carroll County Hall of Fame. |
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Jean SheaSince 1996, Jean Shea has been a dedicated member of the Winfield Recreation Council, giving countless hours to support youth and community programs. For nearly 30 years, she served as basketball coordinator, managing player drafts, scheduling gym time for both recreation and travel teams, and organizing summer camps. Known for always going above and beyond, she has consistently strived to be a true team player within the council and the wider recreation community. Although she has stepped down as program lead for Winfield Recreation Council basketball, Jean continues to volunteer her time and support the program whenever needed. Her dedication and hard work have left a lasting legacy on Winfield Recreation Council and the families it serves. We are proud to recognize her outstanding contributions with her induction into the Carroll County Hall of Fame, Class of 2025. |
Volunteers of the Year 2025
Click on the images to learn more about the 2025 Volunteers of the Year.
