See Why An Aurora Volunteer Was Nominated As A Community Leader

AURORA, IL — Without community leaders, Aurora Patch wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Andre Carter, an Aurora Patch reader who nominated Mary Fultz.

How do you know this community leader?

Volunteer

What does this community leader do?

She organizes community events, including coat and shoes food drives, holiday drives and dinners, and resource and business entrepreneurs business exposes.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

Mary is well known for organizing community outreach events that promote unity and the needs of underserved communities. She has been faithful in serving community needs for over 20 years sometimes using her own money or giving opportunities to people who don't have the time but want to give back. Mary is generous and caring and very considerate of the needs of others. As a cancer and stroke survivor, Mary is so special for always putting the needs of others before herself. She welcomes everyone to join or volunteer regardless of their background race etc. She is awesome and because of her passion and love for others, many people love her. We are happy to have Mary be a vessel that cares enough to put others before herself. Even when she was homeless for over a year, she kept it silent and continued to assist the needs of others. She is just a blessing to youth, seniors, the homeless population, veterans and single mothers and babies. Mary often speaks of how her not-for-profit Community Advocacy Awareness Network (CAAN) is her passion that she carries in her heart every since she was a young girl.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

Mary is faithful committed dedicated and loves everyone. She believes in letting people bring their ideas and together let's make it reality. Mary's focus on community engagement has opened doors that were closed between the police and community residents. Mary is not prideful and doesn't really care about awards. Every time she or her organization CAAN is recognized she always steers the attention to the volunteers and others. That's why the Aurora community adores and loved her.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out? Nominate them here.