Nominated by: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County

Behind every smiling child, supported family, and thriving community, there are extraordinary volunteers working tirelessly to make it happen. And one of those volunteers is Raoul Graves. His quiet, steady acts of service and fundraising haven’t just supported individual children and families — they have lifted the spirit of Anne Arundel County. Over the past five years, Raoul has given more than 10,000 hours to strengthening programs that help children, families, and neighbors find hope and stability.

“Raoul’s service is extraordinary because it is rooted in humility, kindness, and a genuine belief in the worth of every person,” said nominator Lisa Lindsay-Mondoro, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County. “He shows up, again and again, for others — with a quiet, consistent love that makes people feel they matter. Raoul Graves’ work is not just important; it is essential. His example shows the power of one person, acting with intention and love, to create real, lasting change. We are a better, more caring community because of Raoul, and I am deeply grateful every day for the difference he continues to make. Raoul Graves is so much more than a dedicated volunteer — he is the heart of what it means to give.”

In addition to working full-time, Raoul makes serving others his priority, demonstrating that giving back is not a task to him — it is who he is. In that spirit, Raoul has uplifted organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park, The Bernie House, and the Ralph Bunche Community Center, where he is a constant presence, ensuring youth and families feel seen and supported. He has fundraised for Noah’s Playground, the SPCA, the Nick Barton Memorial Foundation, Seeds for Success, House of Hope, BARKS, AMFM—Annapolis Musicians Fund for Musicians, Annapolis Police initiatives, GORC, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Bicycle Advocates for Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, Friends of the Light House, the Stanton Community Center, Wounded Warriors, Box of Rain, the Eastport Volunteer Fire Department, and Johns Hopkins Children’s Hospital’s Snowflake Center.

Every holiday season, Raoul not only leads Bykes 2 Tykes fundraising to personally purchase and hand out more than 100 bicycles to children, he also organizes a team of volunteers who hand out bikes, carefully fit helmets, and ensure each child leaves feeling celebrated and safe.

“Each organization has felt Raoul’s kindness and steady support, allowing them to expand services and bring comfort to countless neighbors in need,” said Lisa. “He does these things not for himself, but so that children can grow up with dignity and joy, so that families in crisis can rebuild, and so that the spirit of community is kept alive for the next generation.”

Alice Estrada, former President & CEO of the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park echoed Lisa’s sentiments, “Raoul is an invaluable member of our volunteer team,” she said. “But beyond his impressive range of contributions, what truly sets Raoul apart is his exceptional spirit. He is a rare combination of unflagging dedication, joyful enthusiasm, and remarkable efficiency.”