2024 Joanne Holbrook Patton Community Service Award

The Community House proudly announces that Bob Blanchard is the recipient of the 2024 Joanne Holbrook Patton Community Service Award. The annual award recognizes an individual who demonstrates a long-term commitment to outstanding volunteer service in the Hamilton-Wenham community. Blanchard, who worked as a firefighter in Wenham for 38 years, is being recognized for nearly four decades of volunteer service to both youth and adults. Blanchard will be honored at The Community House’s Bloom To Grow fundraising event on Thursday, May 9th, in recognition of his extensive volunteer work spanning nearly 4 decades.

Bob Blanchard’s accomplishments include improving the education and safety of local children and teens. For two decades, he taught CPR, first aid, and safety to Hamilton-Wenham Regional High School and Gordon College students. When the community experienced several tragedies due to students drinking and diving, Blanchard developed the SAFE (Students Acting For Each Other) Club and served as its dedicated advisor. It was a pivotal moment that exemplifies his commitment to student safety and community well-being.

Blanchard has also shown exceptional leadership through a diverse range of programs and organizations. He coached local youth sports for over 20 years and served as a youth group advisor at First Baptist Church for more than 25 years. He has been an active member of the Hamilton-Wenham Rotary Club for 20 years. He spurred the creation of the Interact Club, a popular, student-led community service club. He was the first father to serve as President of the Friends of Miles River Middle School. And he initiated the tradition of taking prom photos in Patton Park. His influence as a champion of youth programming and humble, positive leadership in the community has enriched the lives of countless students and adults.

Blanchard’s remarkable contributions and positive impact on the Hamilton-Wenham community have touched the lives of many people, young and old. The Community House congratulates him on winning the Joanne Holbrook Patton Community Service Award and thanks him for his inspiring example.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact The Community House Marketing Manager, Kristalyn Burns, at kristalyn@communityhouse.org or 978-468-4818 X12.