Morris County ‘Heroes’ Honored By Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — Several Morris County residents were recently named as “heroes” for their contributions to the community.

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, who represents New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, has announced a list of 25 "NJ-11 Heroes," recognizing several Morris County residents for their significant contributions to their local communities.

Residents of Morris County – which includes Boonton, Morristown, Hanover, Madison, Pompton Plains, Parsippany, and Chatham – were encouraged to nominate the everyday heroes in their lives as a way to express gratitude for their contributions to the community.

This year's overwhelming number of submissions, Sherrill said, highlights the strong sense of goodwill within our local communities.

“Each year, my office and I receive so many incredible submissions for our annual heroes program, the congresswoman said. “This year was no different.”

“I am moved by all of the New Jerseyans who are making a difference in the lives of others,” Sherrill continued. “There were inspiring submissions from throughout the district and this year’s group of heroes includes teachers, community leaders, volunteers, veterans, students, and more. All of our heroes are neighbors who we are grateful for this holiday season.”

The following list of awardees comes via Sherrill’s office:

Joann Carroll, Chatham

Nominated by Liz

"Joann has founded an organization called Helping Hands, NJ which provides essential items to those in need. The organization was formed during the early days of the pandemic, after realizing that people in our own community were struggling to provide food for themselves and their families. It has grown into a huge effort (more than 50 families are supported each week) and the organization also provides clothing and holiday gift donations, and beyond. She is the full package - caring, generous, community focused, and effective at making a difference!"

Sally Simonfay, Chatham

Nominated by Lynda

"Sally is a high school teacher, wife, and mother of teenagers. Every Monday and Friday she and a friend pack up their cars with food and feed 150-200 people experiencing homelessness in. She also takes care of families that live in some welfare motels, making sure they have everything to survive. At Christmas time, she asks the community to help her bring some joy to underprivileged students from a nearby school. She collects around 500 wrapped, tagged gifts for the students. Sally is Chatham’s hero, she deserves to be recognized."

Kathryn Hardin, Boonton

Nominated by Adriane

"In 2024 Mrs. Hardin celebrated 50 years as a volunteer on the Boonton Kiwanis First Aid Squad. She is an EMT and Quartermaster at the Squad House and never ceases to go over and above, even during the height of the pandemic. Community members say her calming, professional demeanor is a gift to our community. She defines a hero in countless ways and is a mentor to younger squad members. She never misses the opportunity to help others."

Debbie Leon, Morristown

Nominated by multiple community members

"Debra has tirelessly dedicated her career to transforming lives through the power of literacy. Under her leadership, Literacy Volunteers has expanded its reach, providing critical educational resources to adults who seek to improve their reading, writing, and communication skills. Her passion and commitment have helped countless individuals gain confidence, find employment, and build brighter futures for themselves and their families. Debra’s work doesn’t just impact individuals; it strengthens our community as a whole. By empowering others with literacy, she fosters inclusion, equity, and opportunity for all. Her unwavering dedication makes her a true hero in every sense of the word, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition!"

Henry Struble, Pompton Plains

Nominated by David

"Having volunteered in youth programs in our Township for over 30 years and have interacted with hundreds of young people, Henry is by far one of the most impressive young men I have ever met. A natural leader, Henry goes above and beyond, not for recognition, but because he understands the importance of responding to one's abilities. Henry is an exemplary young man who already understands the importance of community and civic responsibility. He is extremely hard-working, self-motivated, and self-disciplined. His history of giving started when he sold a bike and donated the money to “The Wounded Warrior Project” in June of 2018. Henry was so successful in his efforts that he started hosting bike sales for local and national charities and from there “Bikes by Hank” took off. He has given to many local charities and local families in need. He has also donated to charities outside of Pequannock: homeless shelters, inner city after school programs, environmental protection programs, children’s hospitals, the VFW, veterans’ groups and more. "

Barbara Small, Madison

Nominated by Robert

"Barbara has been on the Board of the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, Inc. for over 10 years and currently serves as its President. As Chief Volunteer Office she has been a tireless advocate that has generously donated her time, talent and treasure. She has been a fierce advocate for individuals with mental illness, children exposed to trauma and individuals suffering with addiction. Prior to her retirement Barbara was a CEO of a supportive employment agency committed to securing competitive employment for people with disabilities. Earlier in her career she worked for organizations that advocated for and provided treatment for those afflicted with AIDS. Barbara is highly respected and admired by her colleagues on the Board and staff at the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris. Her quiet and dignified leadership makes a difference every day."

Orlando Miranda, Picatinny Arsenal

Nominated by Dominic

"Besides being an amazing father, Orlando is a dedicated hard worker who always does what he can to help others. This year alone he has been a part of countless events assisting veterans in numerous ways. He always strives to do what’s best for him and his community and will learn what he must to be able to help others in the most efficient way. Orlando is the president and founder of Latino Vets of New Jersey which is a non profit that works to better the lives of all veterans in New Jersey but in particular, Latino veterans. Besides that he is very active in his community and has worked with other veteran organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project which also aims to help soldiers who were wounded after being deployed."

Mia Davenport, Hanover Township

Nominated by Mark

"Mia was the first employee hired by the Rose House more than twenty years ago. The Rose House provides residential support for adults with developmental disabilities. She managed their first group, and was subsequently promoted Director, where she supervises all independent living consumers. Mia set the tone for all Rose House staff, delivering and demanding the warmest, most supportive services."

Lake Parsippany Fire Department, Parsippany

Nominated by Lorrie

"They are 100% volunteers as long as our town has been here and they are committed and dedicated to keeping it that way no matter if they are short-staffed, under-funded, tired or sick. They keep the 'community' in our close community and keep our taxes down by sacrificing all this, to boot. They actively recruit although with mostly disappointing results which puts them even more in demand. These under-appreciated people are a priceless asset to our community. They are truly a treasure."

All 2024 heroes live or work in NJ-11, and they will all get a congressional certificate acknowledging their community service.