2025 Madison Visionary Awards

The third annual Madison Visionary Awards, held on March 27, 2025, was hosted by Madison Visionary Partners (MVP) and showcased the outstanding individuals and organizations that continue to make Madison a thriving community. With heartfelt recognition and celebration, the event honored the individuals whose selfless contributions and dedication to the city have made it one of the most desirable places to live.

Youth Volunteer of the Year

The Youth Volunteer of the Year award went to Marcus Butler, a remarkable young individual who demonstrated his dedication through extensive volunteer work. He has volunteered extensively with Nations Ford Community Church, Loaves and Fishes, Manna House, Monrovia Fire Department, and Shower Up.  This past summer, Marcus saw a gap in volunteer coverage at Madison Hospital and stepped up to fill every slot himself, dedicating over 150 hours to transport patients in the CT area.

Youth Volunteer of the Year Finalists included Amanda Browning, a senior at Madison Academy and Isabella Giesbrecht, a freshman at Bob Jones High School.

Community Volunteer of the Year

Jim Chamberlain, a long-time conservationist and the president of Madison Greenways & Trails, received the 2025 Community Volunteer of the Year award. Jim’s tireless work documenting and preserving the beauty of Madison’s green spaces, including the Rainbolt Trail on Rainbow Mountain, has greatly contributed to the city’s growth and environmental awareness.

Crystal McBrayer, Madison Street Festival, and Jeanetta Wilson, Madison Friends of the Library, were the finalists in this category.

Philanthropic Businessperson of the Year

Bill Roark, founder of Starfish Holdings and Torch Technologies, was honored as the Philanthropic Businessperson of the Year. Bill’s commitment to community service, particularly through Torch’s volunteer arm, Torch in Action, was recognized for its profound impact on local organizations.

Carole Jones, Jurenko Foundation, was also recognized as a finalist.

2025 Madison Visionary of the Year

The afternoon culminated with the highest honor of the event—the Madison Visionary of the Year award. The 2025 recipient, Marc Jacobson, was recognized for his decades of civic involvement and significant contributions to the Madison community. Marc’s leadership and commitment to volunteerism have helped shape Madison into the vibrant city it is today.

“We are so proud to honor these incredible individuals and organizations who make Madison such a special place,” said Christina Hearne, Executive Director of Madison Visionary Partners. “Their dedication to improving our community through volunteerism, advocacy, and philanthropy is inspiring, and we are grateful for all they do to enrich the lives of Madison residents.”

You can read profiles on each finalist in the March issue of Madison Living Magazine.