Citizen of the Year

Barbara Benson, a longtime volunteer with both municipal and community organizations, has been recognized for her efforts with the 2024 Citizen of the Year honor.

Benson, who is Office of Emergency Management (OEM) administrator, oversaw last April’s Volunteer Fair and related campaign to promote volunteerism.

In presenting the award, Mayor Jack Mikolajczyk noted a long list of volunteer activities Benson has been involved with.

“It shows the depth of giving in all facets of your life,” the mayor said.

“In Middlesex, we’re very lucky to have a person like Barbara who’s willing to step up and help out,” he said. “I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.”

Mikolajczyk also said that through Benson’s efforts, membership in OEM’s Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) has increased.

“Those who know me, understand that I do not seek recognition,” Benson said, while accepting the award. “For me, volunteering is not just an activity, it’s – I believe – a part of my DNA and an intrinsic part of who I am.”

Benson recalled that in January 2024, she and OEM deputy Lee Poandl met with Mikolajczyk and Council President Michael Conahan. The “critical need” to increase local volunteerism was discussed, she said. From that meeting, came the idea for the fair and a volunteer awareness campaign. 

Both were meant to publicize the existing opportunities for residents to get involved with various municipal departments and organizations such as the fire department, rescue squad, OEM and others. The fair was held at the borough library in April.

With volunteerism being “very close to my heart,” Benson said she agreed to oversee the fair.

Volunteers, she said, “strengthen the fabric of the community” and serve as its “backbone.”

Benson thanked OEM coordinator Jack Costa for his support, library director Chrissy George for helping organize the fair, and Poandl, who she called “not just a colleague, but also my best friend.”

One of most important aspects of volunteerism is the collaboration and unity it brings, Benson said. She also thanked the mayor and council, municipal staff and those who volunteered through the fair.

Benson concluded by saying she plans to again oversee the fair next year “so we can build on the successes of 2024.”

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