Hilary Emmer recognized for her volunteer contributions on Vashon

March 21, 2016

Summary

Elected as the “unofficial Mayor of Vashon Island,” Emmer has been involved in a number of projects in her community

Story

She has been a presence on projects throughout Vashon and Maury Islands, and today Hilary Emmer was recognized for the volunteer work she has done for the people of her community with the presentation by Council Chair Joe McDermott of the inaugural MLK Medal of Distinguished Service.

“Hilary makes me better at my job because she asks the challenging questions and helps us get to solutions that improve lives,” said McDermott. “It is my privilege to know Hilary, to work with Hilary and to present this Medal of Honor to her today.”

Elected as the “unofficial Mayor of Vashon Island,” Emmer has been involved in a number of projects in her community ranging from spearheading the effort to get dental vans to schools to ensure kids have access to care, to helping sign people up so they can receive health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, to advocating for legislation that will allow for partial payment of delinquent property taxes to help prevent foreclosures.

Emmer has also aided low-income residents of Vashon by providing free tax help for small tax-exempt organizations and individuals making less than $25,000 a year.

Emmer’s volunteer work exemplifies the ideas behind the awarding of the medals, acknowledging individuals throughout King County who make a difference by volunteering in their communities.