IslandVibesIOP.com 11 Isle of Palms, Matouchev brings the same clarity and thoughtfulness he offers his clients to his work with LENS. His innovation, diligence and consistent engagement have become a touchstone for other founders, elevating both the mission and the momentum of the organization. He serves with an ease and humility that make his leadership all the more impactful. VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Paige Hauff The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes exceptional dedication to service, and this year that honor belongs to Paige Hauff. As the executive director of Girls on the Run, Hauff shapes wellness-based programming for young people across the Lowcountry. But her reach extends even further on Isle of Palms, where she serves as race director of the LENS Wild Child Triathlon, sits on the Wild Dunes Community Association Board and currently leads SIES Friends as president. Hauff’s leadership is steady, thoughtful and hands-on; she meets community needs with both strategy and heart. GEORGE REETH LEADERSHIP AWARD: Ambrose Schwallie Longtime resident Ambrose Schwallie receives the George Reeth Leadership Award for his exceptional stewardship within the LENS Endowment Group. With a career marked by strong business judgment and nonprofit expertise, Schwallie brings a strategic mindset grounded The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms has announced its 2025 Volunteer Award honorees, a trio of residents whose service, leadership and generosity have strengthened the island in ways that echo well beyond their day-to-day roles. Each will be recognized at the 2026 LENS Annual Banquet: The Cheese Ball — a night that blends heartfelt gratitude with the kind of community spirit for which Isle of Palms is known. FOUNDERS RECOGNITION AWARD: Dimi Matouchev Few exemplify the steady, roll-up-your-sleeves commitment of the LENS mission quite like Dimi Matouchev. A financial advisor at Edward Jones on in forward-thinking sustainability. He is unafraid to ask hard questions, champion new ideas and encourage deeper, long-term planning. His influence has strengthened the foundation in ways that will benefit Isle of Palms residents for years to come. The 2026 Cheese Ball invites residents, neighbors and longtime friends of the island to gather for an evening that celebrates dedication in its truest form. It is a night of music, meaning and gratitude, and a chance to applaud this year’s honorees whose contributions continue to brighten and strengthen the Isle of Palms community. Tickets and event details are available at lensiop.org, with proceeds directly funding essential LENS programs, equipment needs, community outreach and family support initiatives for first responders. COMMUNITY IOP Songwriters Festival to raise more than decibels Staff Report Stray pets receive shelter donation during cold season Staff Report Community volunteers to be honored at LENS Cheese Ball Staff Report Isle of Palms Songwriters Festival, a concert benefiting area charitable causes, returns Saturday, April 11, from 2-9 p.m. at The Dinghy. Local and regional songwriters will perform original material in a beach venue The Family Vacation Rental Group (FVR) donated numerous towels and blankets to the Isle of Palms Police Department’s Animal Control division to help pets during the cold weather. Officer Sean Kittrell, animal control director, and the Family Vacation Rental Group work together each year providing for residents’ pets needing a safe and warm place to stay until they can be reunited with their owners. The division provides the community with a safe haven for residents’ pets who get loose from their homes. They enforce animal-related laws and ordisetting on an outdoor covered performance stage on the venue property. Patrons will have access to food and beverages, and donated items will be auctioned and raffled throughout the day. The purpose of the event, which is organized by Charleston musician, songwriter and performer Dave Landeo, is to benefit local philanthropic endeavors including Lowcountry Orphan Relief, Girls on the Run Coastal South Carolina and the Lowcountry Music Scholarship. A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to the high school senior winner of the songwriting contest. Come enjoy 15 talented musical acts in a laid-back setting while helping advocate for the community. Free to the public. VIP tickets are available. The sound and lights will be provided by Greg Norton Audio. For more information, visit isleofpalmssongwritersfestival.com. nances while protecting and assisting both local wildlife and domestic pets. They respond to reports of injured or diseased wildlife and transport them to appropriate facilities. One of the most common issues on the island involves off-leash or runaway dogs. “I would like to remind the community to make sure their dogs wear collars and tags so we can quickly identify the owner and verify the dog’s vaccination status,” Kittrell said. “We are committed to being a responsible and caring member of the Isle of Palms community,” FVR co-chair Mel Miles stated. “We believe that by working together, we can create a harmonious environment that benefits all, ensuring that our island remains a wonderful place to live, work and visit.” Pictured (from left) Family Vacation Rental Group staff and friends, IOPPD Animal Control Officer Sean Kittrell (center) and dogs Buster, Tilly and Roscoe. FVR is comprised of 25 local and professionally managed vacation rental companies to address the needs of the community.
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