Overview

Silver Eagle Award

The Rotary Club of Joliet is proud to continue one of our most meaningful traditions: honoring exceptional older adults who enrich our community through service, leadership, and a deep commitment to others. Each year, the Silver Eagle Award recognizes seniors whose volunteerism has made a lasting and positive impact on the Joliet community.

Call for Nominations

To Be Eligible, Nominees Must:

  • Be at least 65 years of age. 
  • Have gone "above and beyond" through volunteer leadership and service.
  • Have made contributions that have positively influenced the Joliet community
Nominees may come from a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, universities, nonprofits, community organizations, and public or private entities. While service in neighboring communities may be considered, the primary benefit should extend to Joliet residents.
 
2026 Silver Eagle Award Recipients

The Rotary Club of Joliet proudly honored Donald O'Brien and Jack Gleason as recipients of the 2026 Silver Eagle Award during its June 2 meeting. The award recognizes individuals whose volunteer service, leadership, and dedication have made a meaningful and lasting difference in the Joliet area. 

Donald O'Brien

Donald O'Brien was recognized for his extraordinary service as a volunteer with Lightways Hospice and Serious Care. A decorated Vietnam veteran who served as a U.S. Army medic from 1965 to 1967, Don continues to serve fellow veterans through meaningful recognition ceremonies and compassionate outreach to veterans receiving hospice care. His dedication, humility, and commitment to others exemplify the spirit of the Silver Eagle Award. 

Jack Gleason

Jack Gleason was honored for his longstanding commitment to Silver Cross Hospital and the broader community. Through volunteer leadership, advocacy, mentorship, and service, he has helped strengthen healthcare services and improve the lives of countless residents throughout the region. His contributions have made a lasting impact on the health and well-being of the Joliet community. 

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Past Recipients

2026

  • Donald O'Brien
  • Jack Gleason

2025

  • Edna Brass
  • Pat Desiderio

2024

  • Tony Arellano
  • Larry Wiers

2023

  • Larry Johnson
  • Karen Isberg-Sorbero

2022

  • Nick Macris
  • Mark Turk
  • Donna Zanzola

2018

  • Marlene Tate

2017

  • Jackie Castelli

2016

  • Jim & Patricia Poch

2015

  • Carolyn Dystrup

2014

  • Sue Bienias
  • John Cronin

2013

  • George Block Sr.
  • Dick Schuster
  • Ruby Williams

2010

  • Mary Hoppe

2009

  • Ed Peters

Thank you for helping us celebrate the outstanding seniors whose service, leadership, and generosity continue to strengthen and inspire the Joliet community.