We learned in the Wednesday, Oct. 16, edition of the Butler Eagle that longtime Zelienople resident Phil Lope was honored this week as the borough’s Volunteer of the Year.

When honored, Lope offered praise for others.

“I appreciate the recognition,” said Lope during a Monday council meeting. “But I know there are at least 10 people in this room that do more for the community than I do.”

But despite what Lope told council members, his work is essential to the success of multiple organizations, including Glade Run Lutheran Services, which he has served on the board of since 2023. One of the main jobs he’s taken on is caring for the horses that are part of Glade Run’s equine therapy program, Adventure Program.

Lope moved to the region in 1978 and as a way to teach his children responsibility, he had them care for horses. Now, he sees the Adventure Program as a way for others to learn the same kinds of lessons.

“The equine therapy program teaches children the same lessons … responsibility, kindness, attention to detail, that I tried to teach my children in connection with the care and management of horses,” Lope said.

In addition to his work with Glad Run Lutheran Services, Lope has been a member of the Rotary Club of Zelienople for nearly 50 years and is a volunteer with Meals on Wheels. On Monday, Lope said he hopes to volunteer with more organizations in the near future.

“When I completely retire, it is my hope to become more involved with other organizations. I presently serve Meals on Wheels with my wife, Meg. I would like to volunteer at Mars Home for Youth, a remarkable organization that provides community and school based programs that address the learning needs of children,” Lope said.

While Lope is modest about what he does for the community, in reality, dedication like his is rare, and he truly deserves the Volunteer of the Year honor.

— JK