Leonardtown, Md. – St. Mary’s County volunteers were at the forefront of a recent commissioners meeting, where two individuals received commendations for their longstanding contributions to the community. Henry Brodersen was recognized for 24 years of volunteer service with the home-delivered meals program, while Chris Kaselemis was honored upon his retirement as director of the Department of Economic Development. The presentations underscored the vital role such dedication plays in supporting residents across Southern Maryland’s rural and suburban landscapes.
The commendations occurred during the St. Mary’s County Commissioners’ business meeting, which began with an invocation and pledge before moving to the consent agenda. Brodersen’s award highlighted his commitment to delivering meals to homebound seniors, a program operated by the Department of Aging and Human Services. This initiative ensures nutritious meals reach older adults who might otherwise struggle with access, particularly in areas like Lexington Park and Avenue. According to county records, the program delivers meals Monday through Friday, typically between 11:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., except on days when senior activity centers are closed.
Brodersen’s 24 years represent a significant milestone in a program that relies heavily on St. Mary’s County volunteers to function effectively. The home-delivered meals effort has faced ongoing needs for additional help, especially in southern parts of the county, as noted in past calls for participants. For instance, in 2018, the program sought more drivers for the Lexington Park area to maintain service amid closures or weather disruptions. Donations from organizations like CoBank have supported diversification of the meals, aiding older adults to age in place. Such contributions align with broader efforts, including holiday distributions where over 900 meals were provided for Thanksgiving in 2020 through collaborative volunteer work.
Kaselemis, meanwhile, was commended for his tenure leading the Department of Economic Development, a role he has held since 2015. His retirement marks the end of a career focused on fostering growth in St. Mary’s County, home to about 115,000 residents and influenced by the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. Under his direction, the department launched initiatives like the “Helping You Navigate Now” listening series in 2020 to assist businesses with recovery and workforce retention during challenging times. Kaselemis also received the 2023 Public Servant Award for his economic contributions, reflecting ongoing recognition of his impact.
The department under Kaselemis celebrated manufacturing month with student tours and supported projects like the AeroPark Innovation District, which hosted events such as the 2022 AUVSI SUAS Competition. These efforts have bolstered local industries, including agriculture and aviation, with recent unveilings like the “Maryland’s AgriCoast” brand to promote farming and seafood. St. Mary’s County volunteers and staff like Kaselemis have been instrumental in such advancements, partnering with entities like the Maryland Economic Development Corporation for planning.
These recognitions occurred amid other agenda items, including approvals for grants and zoning changes, but the focus on service highlighted the commissioners’ emphasis on community pillars. The home-delivered meals program continued operations even during disruptions like COVID-19 closures in 2020, when deliveries persisted while congregate meals halted. Weather events, such as delays in 2021, also tested the program’s resilience, with St. Mary’s County volunteers stepping up to ensure no interruptions where possible.
Retirements like Kaselemis’ prompt considerations of departmental continuity, as the economic development team transitions leadership while maintaining momentum on projects like AeroPark expansions. The consent agenda’s role in formal recognitions allows for efficient honoring of such service without derailing broader discussions.
In Southern Maryland, where military presence and rural heritage intersect, St. Mary’s County volunteers form the backbone of programs addressing aging populations and economic vitality. The commendations serve as a reminder of how individual efforts sustain community welfare, encouraging others to participate in similar initiatives. With ongoing needs for drivers in meal programs and evolving economic strategies, these honors may inspire future involvement among residents familiar with the area’s close-knit networks.
