Rutland Elks Lodge honors Ellie McGarry as Citizen of the Year

The Rutland Elks Lodge named Ellie McGarry its Citizen of the Year in recognition of her leadership supporting people experiencing homelessness and poverty. McGarry leads Rutland Neighbors, a day shelter that expanded from a meal program into a resource hub serving thousands of meals annually.

The Rutland Elks Lodge has named Ellie McGarry its Citizen of the Year in recognition of her work supporting people experiencing homelessness and poverty in the community. The annual award, selected by the lodge's Exalted Ruler, recognizes sustained service and community leadership. McGarry serves as executive director of Rutland Neighbors, a day shelter on Strongs Ave. Under her leadership the organization expanded from a small meal program into a broader resource hub that serves meals and distributes essential items. Key facts: - The Rutland Elks Lodge selected Ellie McGarry as Citizen of the Year, an annual honor chosen by the lodge's Exalted Ruler. - McGarry is executive director of Rutland Neighbors, a day shelter located at 60 Strongs Ave. - Rutland Neighbors grew from a small meal program into a resource hub that serves thousands of meals annually and provides critical items to people living outdoors. - Her work brings together volunteers, local businesses, community partners, and civic leaders, and organizers say she focuses on treating each person with dignity and building a sense of belonging. - McGarry's background in education and community leadership has shaped her focus on practical assistance paired with long-term connections to services. Summary: The recognition highlights local efforts to support neighbors facing hardship and reflects values of compassion and inclusion in Rutland. Undetermined at this time.