Franklin Man Honored for Volunteerism

Fred Knueppel of Franklin is one of five winners of The Volunteer Center of Milwaukee's "Inspire by Example” awards.

Knueppel and the other winners will be recognized at a Volunteer Celebration on Thursday, April 23 at the Italian Conference Center. The annual luncheon recognizes outstanding volunteers during National Volunteer Week. Reservations for the 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. event are available by calling 414-273-7887.

Fred Knueppel received the Adult Award for his leadership in the Computer Recycling Program for IndependenceFirst.

Knueppel’s motto as a postal worker still holds true in his volunteer career – he’s on the job through rain, sleet and snow.

While the people served by IndependenceFirst benefit from Fred’s good work in a number of ways, he has the greatest impact by providing computers to people with disabilities who otherwise couldn’t afford them.

The Computer Recycling Program has increased 50%, up to 175 computers annually, and much of that growth is credited to Fred’s exhaustive efforts. He has been involved with streamlining the refurbishing process, supervising volunteers, coordinating donations and now even leads the department.

The juggling act that is required to meet the needs of a diversified staff and client base has not deterred Fred from making the program a success. With enthusiasm, the ability to anticipate needs, create solutions and follow through, Fred is an indispensible volunteer and a great ambassador for the agency. He feels that as long as he has the time and good health he will do everything he can to make the lives of others a little easier.

IndependenceFirst is directed by and for the benefit of persons with disabilities, effectively facilitating empowerment of individuals with disabilities through education, advocacy, independent living services and coalition building.

The other awards handed out by THe Volunteer Center of Milwaukee, a service of the Nonprofit Center, are:

• Business Award – to Froedtert Hospital Community Service Program, for its dedication to addressing community needs by volunteering at free clinics, repairing homes for the elderly, as literacy tutors and fundraisers.

• Fran Swigart Board Leadership Award – to José Olivieri of Michael Best & Friedrich, whose current and past board service has benefited the United Community Center, Lutheran Social Services, Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Milwaukee Community Service Corp., and the University of the Wisconsin Board of Regents, among others. Olivieri also has served on various community-based commissions and councils.

The Award is named in honor of one of Milwaukee’s most respected volunteer leaders.

• Team Award – to the BloodCenter of Wisconsin, whose volunteers provide a welcoming and caring environment to all of those who donate life-saving blood and blood products to those in need.

• Wile Volunteer Management Award – to Lynn Friedman, Director of RSVP at Interfaith Older Adult Programs, managing 450 active volunteers with an emphasis on recognition, growth and enhancing the volunteer experience.