IRMO, SC -The Town of Irmo has officially named longtime resident, educator, and community advocate Julie Zimmerman as the first-ever recipient of the Heart of Irmo award. Coordinated by Councilman Mike Ward and presented by the Irmo Town Council, this new semi-annual honor recognizes outstanding local volunteers who demonstrate an exceptional, selfless commitment to uplifting the community.
Councilman Ward introduced the award by highlighting the vital role that local volunteers play in our community. “Over the last several years and decades, we’re seeing fewer and fewer people step up and volunteer their time,” Ward noted. “There are a lot of unsung heroes. And so, we started the Heart of Irmo award, awarded to volunteers who are giving back to their community completely selflessly.”
When the town turned to the public for nominations, Zimmerman’s name rose to the top. Community submissions highlighted her extensive hands-on advocacy, noting that she is “always willing and ready to support her neighbors and community by assisting those with food insecurity.” Another nominator added, “Julie embodies the joy of service. Julie and Irmo go hand in hand.”
Upon accepting the award, Zimmerman expressed her gratitude and shared the simple motivation behind her efforts.
“I am humbled and honored, and it’s such a blessing to be recognized,” Zimmerman said. “But the reason why I do what I do is to help people. My efforts to serve my neighbors are at the heart of everything I do. Whether it’s starting Neighbors Helping Neighbors (an initiative that provides resources to those in need), helping Councilman Penfield with the free Christmas tree distribution, or simply seeing someone in need at Kroger and giving them a smile. This is just really at the heart, no pun intended, of what Irmo is. Giving back to the place that has given so much to me is one of the greatest honors of my life.”
The Town of Irmo extends its deepest congratulations to Julie Zimmerman for her unwavering service and for setting a definitive standard for what it means to be the “Heart of Irmo.”
If you know a neighbor going above and beyond in the Irmo community, you can submit a nomination here.
