Janis Miller Wertheimer
Named for the late Janis Miller Wertheimer, a well-known Frederick County businesswoman and prolific volunteer, Wertheimer Fellows are recognized for their sweat equity rather than their financial contributions to the local community—leaving a lasting legacy of giving in everything they do. The award aims to honor a volunteer who doesn’t seek or receive a lot of recognition for their countless hours of community service.
Wertheimer Fellows for Excellence in Volunteerism are recognized at the Community Foundation’s Annual Report to the Community each November and are awarded $25,000 to establish or add to a permanent fund with the Community Foundation for the nonprofit or charitable endeavor of their choice.
The Wertheimer Youth in Action Award honors a youth in grades 9-12th each November who is positively impacting the community by volunteering their time and talent and is awarded a $2,000 grant to give to the nonprofit of their choice.
Nancy Ernest-Pastor
Nancy Ernest-Pastor, has spent more than five decades serving her church, her community, and even people across the country rebuilding after natural disasters. Her hands have wired homes, repaired roofs, and lifted spirits — and her heart has inspired countless others to serve.
With her award, Nancy is creating the The Nancy Ernest-Pastor Fund to benefit the Church of the Brethren’s Disaster Ministry Program and to support Mt. Airy Net, Inc. in its mission of helping local families.
Amy M. Rembold
Amy M. Rembold, has devoted her life to environmental education and community engagement. Whether she’s leading the Frederick County Sustainability Commission, teaching gardening to young students, or helping neighbors plant for a healthier watershed, her work reminds us that stewardship of the earth is an act of trust in future generations.
With her award, Amy is creating The Rembold Family Fund to support Lincoln Elementary School’s 4-H Club.
Armin Rahman
Armin Rahman, represents the very best of Frederick County’s next generation — a student leader whose kindness, initiative, and love of learning have already touched so many lives. Through hundreds of volunteer hours teaching Sunday School, mentoring younger students, and welcoming peers at the library, she is proving that leadership can start at any age — when it’s rooted in compassion.
With her Wertheimer Youth in Action Award, Armin will provide a grant to Frederick County Public Libraries, Brunswick Branch.