The University of Illinois Springfield, Junior League of Springfield and the United Way of Central Illinois honored more than 40 Sangamon County volunteers, businesses and organizations during the 19th annual Good as Gold Ceremony on April 20 in the UIS Student Union.

The Good as Gold Ceremony was started in 2008 to honor people, businesses and organizations who freely give their time and talents to make Sangamon County a better place to live.

Distinguished Volunteer Award

Shirley McCandless received the 2026 Distinguished Volunteer Award. McCandless has long viewed volunteering as an extension of her faith, staying active through church service throughout her life. After retiring from a 37-year teaching career and more than 20 years in retail, she began volunteering with Compass for Kids at the encouragement of her daughters, initially serving as a dinner provider before expanding into a variety of roles.

Her work has included assisting with office projects, supporting Camp Compass assessments and contributing to programming that serves local youth. One of her most meaningful experiences came during Camp Compass, where she witnessed young students grow in confidence and ability over time. Her involvement has also deepened her understanding of community needs, particularly food insecurity.

McCandless is passionate about encouraging others to volunteer, emphasizing that even small contributions can make a difference. What began as preparing meals on her own has grown into a group effort, reflecting her belief in the power of bringing others together in service.

Finalists for the 2026 Distinguished Volunteer Award included Les Carlson, Roger Schlichting and Bill Thomas.

Star Student Award

UIS student Melissa Jackson received the Star Student Award. Jackson has demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, service and campus engagement since joining the Leadership for Life program as a freshman, completing 50 hours of service in her first semester and continuing to volunteer each year both on and off campus.

Her service includes community cleanups, food packaging, donation drives and supporting foster families, reflecting her passion for helping others wherever there is a need. On campus, she serves as president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Upsilon Rho Chapter; vice president of the Black Student Union; vice president of the Greek Affairs Board; and treasurer of the WiCyS Student Chapter at UIS.

Jackson is known for her initiative and collaboration, frequently partnering with the Volunteer & Civic Engagement Center and taking on leadership roles in major campus events. Even in her final semester, she helped launch a new student organization, demonstrating her continued commitment to building community. Her positive attitude and dedication to service make her a strong ambassador for UIS.

Star Staff Award

Craig McFarland, UIS senior academic advisor, received the Star Staff Award. McFarland volunteers extensively throughout the community, including leadership roles at The Muni theatre and involvement in local productions.

He is also active with NPR Illinois, where he contributes to and produces podcasts through the Front Row Network, often highlighting creative talent from the region. His work has helped showcase individuals who have gone on to achieve success in the entertainment industry while strengthening connections within the local arts community.

In addition, McFarland has supported NPR Illinois’ Community Voices initiative by identifying, recruiting, interviewing, editing and promoting segments that highlight community members. His efforts not only support the station but also help tell meaningful stories about people across the region, strengthening community awareness and connection.

Youth Service Award

Stella Lopp received the Youth Service Award. Lopp has demonstrated a strong commitment to service, leadership and community impact both locally and internationally. In 2023, she participated in a medical mission trip to rural Panama, assisting healthcare professionals in providing care to underserved communities.

Locally, she serves as president of Student United Way, a role she has held for two years after previously serving as vice president. In this position, she coordinates meetings, develops service opportunities and recruits members while ensuring efforts align with community needs. Her work has included organizing food drives, supporting community events, assisting with neighborhood improvement projects and creating outreach efforts for families and seniors.

In addition to her service, Lopp is a member of the National Honor Society and a varsity athlete, balancing academics, athletics and leadership responsibilities. Her dedication to service and ability to lead across multiple areas reflect her commitment to making a meaningful impact.

Finalists for the Youth Service Award included Maryam Hafiz, Aiden Roberts, Caroline Scherschel and Ella Shin.

Heart of Gold Community Awards

Twenty-nine volunteers or organizations received the Heart of Gold Award. Honorees included: Sophia Bartletti, Cathy Boerke, Shaun Brady, Sister Ritamary Brown, Patricia Carley, Wayne Carlson, Lisa Cotton, Mary Cronin, Adrienne Dalenberg, Kris Gates, Jeff Gebauer, MaryAnn Gebauer, Christie Goleman, Amy Green, Shauna Hayes, Joy Hayes, Lexi Hezlep, Jerry Hirstein, Karen Hirstein, Penny McCarty, Ali McCue, Chandana Nandi, Gilbert Opferman, Julie Sherren, Brandon Stricker, Cheryl Tate, Beth Waldman and Debbie Williams.

Organization of the Year Award

5th Street Renaissance received the 2026 Organization of the Year Award. The Springfield-based nonprofit provides integrated health and housing services to individuals and families impacted by HIV, homelessness, trauma, substance use, mental health challenges, domestic violence and justice involvement.

For more than 40 years, the organization has delivered low-barrier, community-based services designed to improve health outcomes and support long-term housing stability. Its programs include transitional shelter, rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, homelessness prevention and veterans housing initiatives.

Fifth Street Renaissance is also a leading provider of public health outreach and harm-reduction services in the region, often serving as the first point of care for individuals facing barriers to traditional healthcare. Through partnerships with healthcare providers, local governments and social service agencies, the organization works to reduce health disparities and create pathways from crisis to stability.

Other nominees included Area Agency on Aging for Lincolnland, Asian Indian Women’s Organization and Cathedral Church of St. Paul the Apostle.

Business Honor Roll

 Six Sangamon County businesses were named to the Business Honor Roll, which recognizes companies that prioritize community service. Awards were presented across multiple size categories, with winners and nominees recognized for their impact.

Businesses with 1–10 employees included SmarTcoaT (winner) and ChangeBridge Consulting (nominee). In the 11–50 employee category, Express was named winner and Small Business Growth Corporation was recognized as a nominee. Among mid-sized businesses, KEB (51–150 employees) was named a winner. Bank of Springfield received top honors in the 150+ employee category.

These businesses demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting the community through service, partnerships and philanthropic efforts.