Washougal woman is ‘Heart of Volunteer’ award recipient

WASHOUGAL — Unite! Washougal Community Coalition named Lisa Bennett as its 2021 recipient of the “Heart of a Volunteer” Excellence Award.

Each Year, Unite! Washougal selects a recipient for the award in memory of Gina L. Farah. Farah was an integral member of the Unite! Coalition, and was known for her compassion and willingness to help others. Her passion and commitment focused on the mental health and wellness of youth and families in the Washougal community.

“Gina was a wonderful mentor, and I am truly humbled to receive this award created in her memory,” Bennett said. “As I serve with Unite! Washougal, I strive to encourage students and families to live their best life. Washougal is a wonderful community, and Unite! Washougal helps our youth to see we are truly better when we work together, play together and serve together. I am thankful to be a small part of the great work being supported by this coalition.”

A project that Bennett has spearheaded is the semi-annual Drug Take Back for unused prescription drugs and opioids. This collaborative effort has properly disposed of over 1,000 pounds of expired or unused medications from the Washougal area. Also, as a part of Unite!, Bennett serves as a mentor on the Sources of Strength Resilience Promotion Team.

“Lisa has many areas of involvement in our community,” said Margaret McCarthy, Unite! executive director. “Her willingness to help support the vision and mission of Unite! Washougal has positively impacted our youth and families for healthier empowered lives.”

Bennett also serves Washougal schools and her community as the district COVID-19 compliance officer, National Honor Society adviser, volunteer at her church and as an athletic trainer at Washougal High School.