Last week brought a profound honor to the Greenwich Sentinel—not once, but twice. On Tuesday, we were recognized by the American Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter with its inaugural Community Champion Award. On Wednesday, the Greenwich Rotary Club presented the Sentinel with a special award for our consistent and dedicated coverage of their work.
These recognitions—coming from two of the most respected service organizations in Greenwich and the region—were deeply meaningful to our entire team. We are humbled, grateful, and most of all, inspired to continue working to be worthy of them.
At the Red Cross event, held Tuesday evening, CEO Stephanie Dunn Ashley opened her remarks with warmth and gratitude. “This past year has been one of resilience, teamwork, and life-changing impact,” she said. “Because of each of you, we have responded to disasters, provided life-saving training, supported military families, and strengthened communities across our region.”
As she turned toward the presentation of the Community Champion Award, Ms. Ashley noted that the Sentinel had been a consistent partner in helping to tell the Red Cross’s story. “This award recognizes an organization that exemplifies a deep commitment to humanitarian service,” she said. “We are honored to celebrate the Greenwich Sentinel. Through its dedication to sharing impactful stories and uplifting our community, the Sentinel has been a true advocate for the mission of the Red Cross.”
She continued, “The Sentinel’s ongoing support has helped spread awareness, drive engagement, and highlight the importance of preparedness and response.”
In accepting the award, Peter Barhydt responded: “What we do pales in comparison to what you do. We get to report from the warmth and safety of our homes on the activities that you do—not just in our own community, but around the country and around the world. Our hats are off to you.”
Less than 24 hours later, the Greenwich Rotary Club gathered for its annual meeting. There, the Sentinel was again recognized, this time for our longstanding support of the Rotary’s mission through nearly weekly coverage. The Rotary Club’s leadership team unanimously agreed to present the award, citing the newspaper’s role in elevating public understanding of Rotary initiatives, strengthening community ties, and even helping grow membership.
Sally Parris offered heartfelt words of thanks to the Sentinel, recognizing the Barhydts for their “commitment to telling our story,” which she said had “significantly elevated the public image of our club.” Agathe Likoba added that the team “makes time to listen, take notes, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up.” She emphasized that the coverage provided by the Sentinel doesn’t just inform—it
To receive these honors back-to-back, from organizations that spend each day helping others, is deeply moving. The American Red Cross Metro New York North Chapter—which serves Greenwich, Westchester, Rockland County, and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point—responded to 91 emergencies this year and supported more than 300 local residents. Its volunteers donated more than 50,000 hours of service and deployed across the country to assist with major disasters including Hurricane Helene, Hurricane Milton, and the California wildfires.
The Greenwich Rotary Club, with its long legacy of global and local service, continues to sponsor scholarships, promote youth programs, host international exchange opportunities, and serve the most immediate needs right here at home. Their motto— Service Above Self—is more than a slogan. It’s a way of life.
