A Springfield volunteer who has served local schools, health care programs and nonprofit organizations will be honored as the Community Foundation of the Ozarks' Humanitarian of the Year.
The Community Foundation of the Ozarks announced that Hank Molinengo is the recipient of its Humanitarian of the Year award, according to a community announcement. The honor recognizes volunteer service provided to multiple organizations across the Springfield area.
After careers with the U.S. Navy and George Washington University Law School, Molinengo moved to Springfield in 2020 to live closer to family. Since then, the announcement says, he has devoted time to organizations including Springfield Public Schools, Crosslines Community Outreach and CoxHealth programs
focused on mental health and suicide prevention.
At Springfield Public Schools, Molinengo served as a reading buddy and custodian at Disney Elementary and participated on the Back to School Bash Event Planning Committee. The school district named him Volunteer of the Year in 2024.
His volunteer work also has included organizing and promoting supply drives for Crosslines Community Outreach and supporting CoxHealth EMS and the CoxHealth Foundation through the Wellness for Warriors program.
Molinengo was nominated for the award by Brent Johnson, Diana Flannigan and Carson Trussell.
“What sets Hank apart is not simply the amount of time he gives, but the intentionality and generosity with which he serves,” Wes Bucholz, vice president of programs for Crosslines, said in a letter of support. “He approaches every opportunity with humility, reliability and a genuine desire to make a difference. Whether working behind the scenes to secure supplies or serving directly alongside fellow volunteers, Hank consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to helping others with dignity and compassion.”
Award presentation planned at philanthropy event
The Community Foundation of the Ozarks will present the award during the Association of Fundraising Professionals–Ozark Region Chapter's National Philanthropy Day celebration at 11:30 a.m. Nov. 17 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 2431 N. Glenstone Ave.
National Philanthropy Day recognizes individuals and organizations involved in charitable giving and community service. Ticket information is available at cfozarks.org/npd.
The Humanitarian of the Year Award was established in 1990 by Springfield donor Jewell Thompson Schweitzer. A committee organized by the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce reviews nominations and selects the recipient each year.
Marshall Kinne, chair-elect of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, chaired this year's selection committee. Other committee members included Alyea Alldredge of Mercy Health Foundation, Cole Currier of Currier and Company, Zora Mulligan of Missouri State University-West Plains, Maleah Spencer of The Kitchen Inc., Jamie Trussell of Crosslines Community Outreach and Dean Van Galen of Missouri Southern State University.
Molinengo will receive a $5,000 cash award that traditionally is donated to one or more charities selected by the honoree.
Additional information is available at cfozarks.org.
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This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield volunteer earns Humanitarian of the Year honor
