Doug Ritter Honored with WARM's Hand Up Award

Some of the most meaningful contributions never make the headlines. They happen in a warehouse before most people are awake, along a delivery route in the middle of winter, and in the steady presence of someone who shows up—not for recognition, but because a neighbor needs them to.

That's Doug Ritter. And at WARM's Annual Prayer Breakfast on May 7, his community said thank you.

Doug received WARM's Hand Up Award in recognition of eight years of dedicated volunteer service—driving routes, sorting donations, working in the warehouse, and stepping into whatever the mission needed on any given day.

About the Hand Up Award

Established by WARM in 2010, the Hand Up Award recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional passion and commitment to service and civic participation in the Westerville community. Recipients are recognized for their innovation, initiative, dedication, and compassion. These honorees go above and beyond—serving as an inspiration for others to make a difference.

A Volunteer Who Became a Friend

Doug has called Westerville home for 21 years. He served his country in the U.S. Navy, built a career as an independent sales representative, and when retirement arrived, he was ready to rest.

His wife Julie had other plans.

"As the story goes, Julie determined that their home might not be quite large enough for the two of them to share all day, every day," said Chad Maxeiner, WARM's Executive Director, to laughter from the crowd. "So she lovingly suggested that Doug put his time to good use at WARM—which, conveniently, has a very spacious warehouse. And Julie, we are so glad you did."

What began as a nudge from a loving spouse became eight years of faithful, consistent service. Through a pandemic, inflation, significant changes in WARM's service model, and more than doubling the number of neighbors served, Doug has been a constant.

"Rain or shine, heat or snow, no matter the ask, he has helped WARM serve our community faithfully," Maxeiner said.

The Definition of Service

Doug isn't motivated by applause. He's motivated by something simpler and more powerful: knowing his work makes a real difference in a neighbor's life.

"Every organization has people who show up quietly, work hard, and never ask for recognition," Maxeiner said. "Doug Ritter is one of those people. And today, we are going to embarrass him just a little by giving him the recognition anyway."

In presenting the award, Maxeiner reflected on what Doug's eight years of service represent—not just to WARM, but to the community he has quietly served alongside. "What motivates Doug is not recognition. It is the simple knowledge that his work makes a real difference in a neighbor's life. That is the definition of service. That is the definition of a hand up."

WARM is honored to call Doug Ritter a volunteer, a teammate, and a friend—and proud to recognize him as this year's Hand Up Award recipient.