At Kareem’s Mission, we believe that real change is created by people who lead with compassion, courage, and purpose. Our Annual Luncheon and Changemakers Awards Ceremony is dedicated to honoring individuals whose lives and work reflect the heart of our mission service, inclusion, advocacy, unity, and hope.
It is with deep gratitude and pride that we announce the recipients of the 2026 Changemakers Awards. Each honoree embodies the values that strengthen our community and inspire others to serve with intention and love.
Below are this year’s award recipients and the impact they are being honored for.

The S.K.I. Award is named in honor of Dr. John J. “Ski” Sygielski in recognition of his lifelong commitment to Service, Kindness, and Inclusion. His leadership and dedication to the community have set a powerful standard for compassionate service, unity, and lasting impact.

Presented to:
Joyce Davis & Russell Good
Honored For:
Leadership defined by Service, Kindness, and Inclusion values that inspire transformation, unity, and lasting impact. This award recognizes individuals whose commitment to others goes beyond words and is reflected through consistent action, compassion, and community-building leadership.

Presented to:
Joyce Davis & Russell Good
Honored For:
Leadership defined by Service, Kindness, and Inclusion values that inspire transformation, unity, and lasting impact. This award recognizes individuals whose commitment to others goes beyond words and is reflected through consistent action, compassion, and community-building leadership.

Presented to:
Una Martone
Honored For:
Shining a light for others through leadership, hope, and transformative impact. This award recognizes those who guide, uplift, and inspire growth helping others move forward with clarity, purpose, and confidence.

Maria Thompson
Honored For:
Their dedication to fostering unity, inclusion, and togetherness especially in the lives of youth. This award celebrates champions who remind us that community is strongest when we grow, nurture, and stand together. Because we are truly better together.

Paul Thompson
Honored For:
Their dedication to fostering unity, inclusion, and togetherness especially in the lives of youth. This award celebrates champions who remind us that community is strongest when we grow, nurture, and stand together. Because we are truly better together.

Romeo Azondekon
Honored For:
Championing abilities—not limitations. This award honors advocacy rooted in courage, leadership that uplifts, and empowerment that creates pathways for others to thrive. Romeo’s work reflects strength, vision, and unwavering belief in the potential of every individual.

Laurie & Robert Comb
Honored In Memory of Justin
Honored For:
Transforming personal loss into a message of hope. This award serves as a reminder to Hold On because Pain Ends. Laurie and Robert’s strength, advocacy, and love honor Justin’s memory while offering comfort, awareness, and hope to others navigating grief and healing.

We extend our deepest gratitude to each of our honorees for their service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making our community stronger, more compassionate, and more inclusive.
On behalf of Kareem’s Mission, thank you for being changemakers.
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