American Cancer Society honors Grace Gonzalez

The American Cancer Society recently honored Grace Gonzalez of Johnston with the Sandra C. Labaree Award. This volunteer award is the most honored accolade by the former New England Division of the American Cancer Society which recognizes volunteers whose actions and service in saving lives from cancer most exemplify the American Cancer Society’s organizational values – Mission, Data-Driven, Diversity, Respect and Stewardship.

“Grace is a community organizer and connector who can see the value of team work. We are lucky to have her as an American Cancer Society volunteer and networking partner in the fight against cancer,” commented Melissa Campbell with the American Cancer Society.

Gonzalez, a former New England Board Member and community organizer has been an American Cancer Society volunteer for over 4 years. She is currently the Manager of Membership Outreach at the Society’s partner Neighborhood Health Plan RI. Gonzalez has seamlessly assisted in integrating the American Cancer Society’s programs and services into the community and in the process, has helped increase overall awareness of how cancer patients are being helped across Rhode Island.

“For the last 21 years, Grace has been a tireless advocate for Neighborhood’s members. She spends her days traveling from city to city, meeting people face to face and encouraging them to find ways to get healthy,” said Peter Marino, President and CEO of Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island. “Grace’s commitment to our community clearly extends way beyond her work day, and I am proud to see her volunteerism recognized by the American Cancer Society. Grace is not only an extraordinary Neighborhood employee who I look to for advice and insight; Grace is a remarkable person who leads by example.”