Good Samaritan Awards
BrightLeaf established the Good Samaritan awards in 1996 to honor individuals, families, and organizations who are committed to helping others and improving the quality of life in our local communities. Since 1996 we have honored over 130 people whose presence and engagement make our communities healthier, more compassionate, safer, and stronger.
Good Samaritans Class of 2026
Thank you to everyone who nominated during the 2026 application process.
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Paul J. Phillips
Paul J. Phillips’ community involvement has created a deep and lasting impact across New Hampshire. Through decades of public service, pro bono legal work, board service, and leadership in human rights and civic organizations, Paul has strengthened the safety, dignity, and well-being of countless individuals and families. Paul is a shareholder at Primmer Piper Eggleston & Cramer PC in Manchester.
Matt Courchesne
Matt Courchesne is the face of the organization, HOPE NH, a long-term mentoring program that brings needed resources to children and their families. Founded in 2002, this organization sponsors an annual toy drive, provides after-school programing for students, creates outings for students, and provides year-round mentorship to kids.
Jason and Kat Piracinias
Jason and Kat Piracinias are the backbone of the Bedford Food Pantry. Established by the Bedford Presbyterian Church, the Bedford Lions Club, and local schools, the food pantry provides food for anyone who needs it. Jason and Kat stock shelves, manage donations, oversee volunteers, deliver food to clients, and treat each person with dignity and respect.
Karen Ross
Karen has been a volunteer at The Elliot Hospital for over 15 years with over 10,000 hours of service to that organization’s staff and patients. She will celebrate 70 years of ministry as a Sister of Mercy in September of this year. Karen always says, “it is my job and duty to take care of community.” At The Elliot she volunteers in three separate roles. She is a Wayfinder, On-Call Volunteer, and NICU Baby Cuddler. Karen goes above and beyond the call of duty to offer emotional support, clothing and toys, kindness, and thoughtful care to those in need. She is an essential member of the Elliot Family, known by many and cherished by all.
Kristen Kraunelis
As the current Quality Improvement Director and an employee of The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester (MHCGM) for 30 years, Kristen is committed to ensuring that individuals in the Greater Manchester community receive high-quality, evidence-based mental health care. Kristen is a recognized leader in suicide prevention, co-leading MHCGM’s Zero Suicide initiative and participating in efforts led by the NH Suicide Prevention Council. Her work has been instrumental in shaping local and statewide efforts to enhance personal, professional and organizational wellbeing. Her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others is shaped by her faith as well as her experiences as a registered nurse, licensed socialworker, hospice volunteer and someone who has navigated significant personal health challenges.
Calley Milne
Calley has built a unique community of dedicated and passionate volunteers at Brookside Congregational Church. What started out as a simple gesture of kindness and support to a few people has grown into a Community Resource Center that now serves hundreds of families and people in need every year. Calley initiated the collaboration with the International Institute of New England (IINE), an organization that provides humanitarian relief, English language learning, and job skills training to refugees and immigrants. Calley’s hard work and passion for outreach led Brookside to become a hub for organizations such as the Greater Manchester Clergy and other interfaith churches across NH to collectively supply the Brookside Thrift Shop with refugee resettlement kits.
Karen Ross
Karen has been a volunteer at The Elliot Hospital for over 15 years with over 10,000 hours of service to that organization’s staff and patients. She will celebrate 70 years of ministry as a Sister of Mercy in September of this year. Karen always says, “it is my job and duty to take care of community.” At The Elliot she volunteers in three separate roles. She is a Wayfinder, On-Call Volunteer, and NICU Baby Cuddler. Karen goes above and beyond the call of duty to offer emotional support, clothing and toys, kindness, and thoughtful care to those in need. She is an essential member of the Elliot Family, known by many and cherished by all.