For more than 48 years, the Minoru Yasui Community Volunteer Award has honored “Unsung Heroes” in our community, those who fly under the radar yet make such an extraordinary difference in the lives of so many. Recipients receive a $2000 cash award which they in turn donate to the non-profit of their choice. 

Minoru Yasui was well-known for his courageous stand against military orders that resulted in the forced removal and imprisonment of over 110,000 persons of Japanese ancestry during World War II. In testing the constitutionality of such government measures, he spent nine months in jail, to know firsthand the never-ending struggles to preserve and protect liberty and freedom of people. His entire life was committed to the defense of human and civil rights, and justice for all.

Yasui served as Executive Director of the Denver Commission on Community Relations from 1967-1983. This award, in his name, was conceived by the Commission to recognize and promote volunteerism by honoring 10 individuals each year whose contributions are constructive, unique, and outstanding. 

August, 17th,  Hilltop resident, Michelle Wecksler was honored with the Minoru Yasui Community Volunteer Award for her volunteer work at Aftersight. Aftersight is a nonprofit, based in Boulder that provides accessible audio news, entertainment and resources for the blind and visually impaired. 

Years ago, Michelle’s grandmother was losing her vision. Michelle recorded her favorite book for her grandmother. She became interested in helping other visually impaired people. For the past 17 years, Michelle has volunteered with Aftersight. Approximately 4 hours each week, she reads and records weekly audio versions of print publications including the New York Times Travel and the Ark Valley Voice which serves the Chaffee County community. Her narrations, particularly the New York Times Travel are among the most downloaded content, reflecting the trust and appreciation of this special audience. 

Alex Flynn, Senior Programming Manager at Aftersight wrote, “Michelle’s commitment to civil rights, equality and community service make her a deserving candidate, and receiving this award would be a fitting tribute to both her efforts and the legacy of Minoru Yasui. Michelle donated the $2000 cash award to Aftersight. 

As of January 2024, the Minoru Yasui Community Volunteer Award has distributed more than one million dollars to over 530 nonprofits. Volunteers are the backbone of most nonprofits. They give their heart, their time and energy, changing the lives of so many. Volunteers make a difference!