Michael S. Williams Honored with Larry M. Funk Award at Annual Awards Luncheon

On July 25, 2024, the Warren Coalition celebrated its Annual Awards Luncheon at the Warren County Community Center, gathering 29 members and guests to honor dedicated service to children in Warren County. The event’s highlight was the presentation of the prestigious Larry M. Funk Award for Outstanding Service to Children.

Throughout the luncheon, the Coalition recognized members for their commitment and service. Michelle Smeltzer, Samantha Barber, and Matt Buracker received recognition for their consistent meeting attendance, with Nick Croft earning a Perfect Attendance pin. Samantha Barber was also honored for her role as treasurer over the past year, and Nick Croft received special acknowledgment for his service as secretary of the board and over 15 years of dedication to the Coalition. Nick’s contributions, including technical support and event staffing, earned him the Coalition Member of the Year for 2024. Executive Director Christa Shifflett announced that for the upcoming year, Samantha will serve as Vice President and Nick as President.

Nick Croft was honored as the Coalition Member of the Year, an honor he has won numerous times due to his dedication to the Coalition.

Dan Lenz was honored for his 16 years of service with the Coalition. Though he plans to continue being active in the Coalition, Dan is retiring from his position as Director of Warren County Parks and Recreation later this year.

A special tribute was given to Dan Lenz, who is retiring from Warren County Parks & Recreation. Dan was celebrated for his 16 years of service and collaboration with the Coalition, which resulted in projects like Rockland Park’s disc golf course, the splash pad, and new pickleball courts. Much to the audience’s delight, Dan expressed his intention to stay involved with the Coalition.

Linda Funk (far left) and Christa Shifflett (on right) presented Michael S. Williams (center) with the Larry M. Funk Award for Outstanding Service to Children in Warren County during the luncheon ceremony. Larry and Linda’s grandson Bryce also attended.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Larry M. Funk Award for Outstanding Service to Children. Established in 2022, this award honors individuals who have significantly impacted Warren County’s children’s lives. Larry M. Funk, the award’s namesake, served the Warren Coalition for over 20 years in various leadership roles and worked as a D.A.R.E. instructor and Community Policing representative for the Warren County Sheriff’s Department for 27 years.

This year’s award was bestowed upon Michael S. Williams, nominated by the Rotary Club of Warren County. The nomination highlighted Michael’s boundless and tireless passion for mentoring and supporting Front Royal/Warren County youth. It credited him with establishing five Early Act and Interact Clubs in the area and praised his dedication as the faculty sponsor for the E. Wilson Morrison Early Act Club. Under his guidance, the club has grown from 17 members in 2019 to 146 students, despite the challenges faced by the Title 1 school where 90% of students receive aid. Michael’s leadership has inspired children to participate in numerous community support activities.

Michael’s impact extends to older youth as well. He is key in organizing Rotary District 7570’s Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) weekend at Virginia Tech, a leadership training program for high school students. He serves as a presenter, chaperone, and driver for youth participants from Warren County. Recognizing his dedication, Rotary District 7570 named him Youth Activities Chairperson for the 2024-2025 year.

Michael’s contributions are not limited to Rotary. He is deeply involved with the children and youth at his church, First Baptist Church in Front Royal, serving as the Children’s Sunday School teacher and Youth Fellowship Leader. He also supports the church’s initiatives, such as the backpack program, which provides food for children, and the collection of school supplies for E. Wilson Morrison School.

The nomination for Michael concluded by praising his childlike heart and unmatched dedication to children’s education. Described as compassionate, uplifting, generous, and motivational, Michael is a beacon of light for the youth of Warren County, embodying the values of service and community involvement.