NewsPay It Forward

Actions

2022 Pay it Forward Person of the Year announced at annual gala

redmond.jpg
Posted at 3:34 PM, Jan 26, 2023
and last updated 2023-01-26 18:40:47-05

KENT COUNTY, Mich — The FOX 17 and Lake Michigan Credit Union Pay it Forward Person of the Year is... John Redmond!

Redmond was featured in February 2022for his decades of service on the Paw Paw Quick Response Team as a volunteer first responder.

redmond.jpg

The annual FOX 17 Pay it Forward Awards Gala was held Thursday afternoon at Frederik Meijer Gardens, honoring all of the 2022 monthly winners.

As the Person of the Year, Redmond is receiving a $5,000 check from Lake Michigan Credit Union.

Redmond, who was unable to attend the event, tells FOX 17 that he plans to use some of the prize money to take a vacation with his wife.

He also wanted to give a "shoutout" to all the volunteers he's worked with over the years.

poy group.jpg
Richardson accepting Redmond's award, pictured here with Van Buren County Sheriff Dan Abbott and FOX 17 anchors Janice Allen and Josh Berry.

Former Paw Paw Fire Chief Kirk Richardson accepted the award on Redmond's behalf.

"I can't think of anyone more dedicated and deserving. I mean even at 82 years old, 24/7, 365, he responds to calls all hours of the day," Richardson told FOX 17 News. "The team responds to a 140 calls a month so he definitely puts others ahead of himself... he's been a dedicated public servant for 48 years, so really happy that he received this award."

You can nominate someone paying it forward here.

To see a recap of the 2022 winners, click here.

Follow FOX 17: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - YouTube