William Donald Schaefer's Legacy Continues With New Award

CATONSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- A year ago, Maryland lost a beloved public servant. In April of last year, William Donald Schaefer passed away.

Mary Bubala reports his legacy was remembered with a new award for those who dedicate their lives to public service.

The Little Sisters of the Poor are being recognized for more than a century of loving care of area seniors in need. They provide shelter, food, care, prayer and so many other critical services to seniors at St. Martin's Home in Catonsville.

Monday, Comptroller Peter Franchot presented the sisters with the Helping People Award as we approach the one year anniversary of the former comptroller's death.

"Remember William Donald Schaefer. It was the individual act of kindness that was so important to him," said Franchot.

"William Donald Schaefer was a friend of Little Sisters. He was a neighbor in his last year and the Little Sisters care for the needy elderly. We're a family. We care for them until God calls them home," said Sister Rosemary Riese, Little Sisters of the Poor.

"It's very humbling," said Sister Alicemarie Jones, Little Sisters of the Poor.

Sister Alicemarie and Sister Rosemary hope the award helps raise awareness and funds to continue a multi-million dollar renovations of St. Martin's.

"Our home is 40 years old and it's showing its age. We really need to upgrade our services. We have six areas we're trying to renovate. Two have been accomplished," Sister Alicemarie said.

The award will be given every year in Schaefer's memory to individuals and organizations that best represent his lifelong commitment to helping people. Nominations are reviewed by a special panel of his friends and colleagues.