Monroe County Honors 22 Everyday Heroes This Week

When a tree suddenly fell on a truck ahead of them last April, Robert and Samantha Livernois didn't hesitate. They pulled over, and Samantha held the traumatized driver's hand while her husband helped until emergency crews arrived.

Their compassion in a tragic moment represents exactly what the United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties celebrates each year. On March 4, the organization will honor 22 Everyday Heroes who went beyond the call of duty to help their neighbors in 2025.

The honorees come from all walks of life. Steve and Jenny Bellmore earned recognition for simple daily acts like clearing snow from neighbors' sidewalks and sharing vegetables from Jenny's garden. Their quiet consistency shows heroism doesn't always require dramatic moments.

Bobbie's Staff started in 2022 to pay off school meal debt at Mason Consolidated Schools. When Michigan made school meals free in 2023, the nonprofit pivoted to sending weekend meals home with kids in need and stocking two community blessing boxes.

Save Monroe Strays turned shoe collection into animal rescue funding. The all-volunteer organization partners with GotSneakers.com to keep athletic shoes out of landfills while earning up to seven dollars per pair to help homeless pets find forever homes.

The Monroe County Firefighters Association celebrated 75 years of service in 2025. Their paid and volunteer members respond to daily emergencies while focusing on keeping the community safe.

The Ripple Effect

Five community leaders reviewed nominations in mid-February, looking for residents who showed courage, kindness and selfless action. The only requirements were that nominees live or work in Monroe County, or that their heroic acts took place there.

Each honoree will receive an engraved award and Certificate of Honor at La Roy's Hall in La Salle. The ceremony recognizes that heroes aren't just found in headlines but in everyday moments when people choose compassion over convenience.

Twenty-two neighbors proved that kindness still shows up when it matters most.