CaringMatters is proud to present Carol and Bruce Childs with the 2026 Commitment in Action Award in recognition of their extraordinary generosity, volunteer service, and unwavering dedication to our mission.

 

After retiring from their careers, Carol and Bruce began looking for meaningful ways to give back to their community. Through their friendship with CaringMatters Board Vice Chair Bill Hard, they were introduced to the organization's mission and quickly felt called to become involved. What began as an introduction soon grew into a deep and lasting commitment.

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Determined to make a hands-on difference, Carol and Bruce completed CaringMatters' volunteer training and began serving clients through the JustRides program. They quickly became known for their reliability, warmth, and ability to connect with people facing difficult circumstances, offering kindness, encouragement, and companionship along the way. As their involvement deepened, they expanded their service to Volunteer Helping Hands, providing practical assistance and compassionate support to individuals and families navigating serious illness and caregiving challenges.

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They are quick to point out that they often receive as much from their volunteer experiences as those they serve. They credit the CaringMatters culture of compassion, connection, and purpose for making their service so meaningful and personally rewarding.

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Carol and Bruce have embraced the CaringMatters mission, demonstrating through both their philanthropy and service a profound belief that no one should face serious illness, caregiving, loss, or grief alone. They share a simple but powerful philosophy: to lift people up during difficult times and make life a little easier and brighter for those around them.

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At this year's Camp Erin Montgomery County, Carol and Bruce quickly became invaluable members of the camp community. As a Big Buddy, Bruce formed meaningful connections with grieving children, offering encouragement, companionship, and a sense of belonging throughout the weekend. Carol worked tirelessly behind the scenes, helping create the warm and welcoming environment that makes Camp Erin so special. From coordinating snacks and meals to preparing activities and meaningful traditions—including campfire s'mores and the cherished Luminary Ceremony—she helped ensure that campers and volunteers felt supported, connected, and cared for every step of the way.

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Their commitment extends beyond direct service. Bruce has been an active member of the Golf Tournament Host Committee, helping grow support for one of CaringMatters' most important fundraising events, while Carol has generously volunteered her time to help ensure its success. Bruce recently expanded his leadership role by joining the CaringMatters Board of Directors.

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“Carol and Bruce embody the very spirit of Commitment in Action,” said Allison Stearns, CEO of CaringMatters. “They have invested not only their resources, but also their time, talents, and hearts in our mission. Whether supporting a fundraiser, volunteering at Camp Erin, serving our clients, or providing leadership, they consistently show up with compassion, enthusiasm, and a willingness to help wherever needed.”

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Through their generosity, volunteerism, leadership, and genuine care for others, Carol and Bruce Childs have strengthened CaringMatters and enriched the lives of many individuals and families. We are honored to recognize them with the 2026 Commitment in Action Award.