UTICA, N.Y. The Good News Foundation awards’ 2026 awards recognized the donors and volunteers behind its work with families, churches and neighbors in need.
The honorees were celebrated at the annual 1992 Society & 300 Club Appreciation & Awards Dinner, according to an October announcement from the foundation. The awards covered three areas: financial support, volunteer service and faith-centered leadership.
Support through the Hinckley Family Fund
Michael and Gail Hinckley received the Steward of The Good News Foundation Award for their support through the Hinckley Family Fund.
The foundation described their gift as one of the largest in its history. It said the donation will help it continue serving individuals, families and Christian churches. The announcement did not give a dollar amount.
Volunteers recognized for hands-on work
The Friends of The Good News Foundation Award recognized Matt Kiefer, Linda Kiefer, Barbara Jo Carino and Frank Cittadino.
Matt Kiefer has volunteered for more than a decade. His work includes helping place and remove 1,000 flags for the annual Flags for Heroes event, restoring the Stations of the Cross and supporting the Cookie Ministry.
Linda Kiefer was recognized for her work as a co-facilitator of the Love One Another Ministry and as a Cookie Ministry volunteer.
Carino, also a co-facilitator of the Love One Another Ministry, has organized outreach for nursing home residents and veterans. Her service includes collecting donations and helping with Flags for Heroes.
Cittadino was honored for restoring Nativity sets, Stations of the Cross and religious statues. He has also shared his interest in Nativity art through presentations and displays at The Good News Center.
Faith expressed through service
Barbara Countryman and George Carpenter received the Evangelist of The Good News Foundation Award.
Countryman serves on the foundation’s board of directors. Her community work includes the Sandwich Ministry at Historic Old St. John’s and service as a Eucharistic Minister.
Carpenter, founder of C & D Advertising, was recognized for his work as a church elder, mentor and supporter of Christian ministries and missions.
The Good News Foundation is a Christian nonprofit that says it welcomes people of all backgrounds. It offers programs, events and support groups focused on spiritual growth, stronger families and help during difficult times.
For more information, visit The Good News Center website or call 315-735-6210.
Source: The Good News Foundation’s October 2026 press release, supplied by C & D Advertising on Oct. 23. Photo supplied by C & D Advertising on behalf of the Good News Foundation.
