Local Residents Crowned Community Champions

Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” and Fallon has been blessed with residents who truly live by that idea.

Five local citizens were recently named Community Champions for their ongoing efforts to serve and support the Fallon community. The Churchill Community Coalition recognized the honorees during its quarterly luncheon on December 17, held before an audience of elected officials, business leaders, and community members. Coalition Board President Steve Russell noted that the champions, who come from many different walks of life, were nominated and selected by members of the community. Those recognized this year were Dawn Blundell, Sarah Lavy, Andy Lenon, Star Olsen, and Daylene Starr.

Dawn Blundell serves as pastor of Epworth United Methodist Church, which is home to the Wolf Center Community Services. For several years, the Wolf Center has hosted Fallon Daily Bread, providing hot meals twice a week. In recent years, the center has grown to include a food pantry, sack lunches offered twice weekly, and a safe place for unhoused individuals to shower and do laundry. During recent funding cuts to the SNAP program, Blundell quickly brought together local partners to help address food insecurity in Churchill County. She was also recognized for establishing and facilitating a new LGCTQ+ group, the Rainbow Coalition, and was praised for her willingness to officiate a wedding at the last minute.

Sarah Lavy is well known for organizing the Fallon Cares Community Coat Drive, an effort she has led for several years. By using social media to reach the community, she has successfully collected and distributed coats to children and adults in need. Over time, her work expanded to include additional clothing distribution through partnerships with local assistance organizations. As the holiday season approaches each year, Lavy also organizes Thanksgiving food boxes and helps sponsor families who need support with Christmas gifts for their families. Although she began her outreach efforts on her own, she later joined forces with Blundell during the SNAP funding crisis and continues to partner with local churches to distribute food and coats.

Andy Lenon has served as the counselor at Oasis Academy since 2016 and has encouraged many students during his nine years there. He challenges students to strive for success while supporting them along the way. His nomination as a Community Champion came from both peers and students, a reflection of the impact he has made. Lenon is known for recognizing progress of all kinds, celebrating both small and large accomplishments. He is described as someone students and staff can depend on, valued for being trustworthy, being a patient listener, and helpful in connecting students with resources to address personal and family challenges.

Star Olsen balances business ownership with a strong commitment to volunteering throughout the community. She is actively involved with the downtown Fallon Theatre, a nonprofit organization run entirely by volunteers dedicated to preserving, renovating, and operating the historic venue. Olsen previously served as business manager for the Stars on Maine performing group when it was housed at the theater. She has also volunteered with the Grad Night committee, helping ensure a safe and sober celebration for graduating seniors, and has served as a Girl Scout troop leader. In addition, Olsen is active in a local parent-teacher organization and volunteers in her church’s children’s program. Olsen often says, “If you want to see something happen, you have to be willing to take it on yourself.”

Daylene Starr is described as a devoted sports mom and serves as secretary of the Fallon Youth Football League Pop Warner Board, which supports both football and cheer programs. She regularly goes beyond her administrative role, helping keep the snack bar stocked and staffed, an important source of funding for the league. Starr also serves on the board of the local Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and plays a key role in organizing the annual Battle Born Broncs event, which has continued to grow since it began. While operating her own daycare business, Starr remains deeply involved in her children’s activities, rarely missing a game and often volunteering at youth sporting events.

The five honorees reflect the heart of Fallon: people who give their time, talents, and energy to support others. Their service is a reminder that community is built every day by those willing to help.