Wilmington’s International Seamen’s Center (ISC) was honored during its recent 2014 Homecoming Dinner by Wilmington mayor Bill Saffo, according to a release from the nonprofit organization.

Saffo delivered a proclamation from City Council that recognized the interdenominational, non-profit organization and its volunteers for their “commitment and dedication that contributes to the enhancement of the Port City of Wilmington,” the release stated.

Saffo also cited the economic and cultural contributions the ISC has provided for its 40-plus-year history, and was quoted in the release as saying “The ISC has been and continues to be a valued partner to the citizens of Wilmington, its businesses, and its diverse religious community.”
 
ISC board chairman Cary Newman presented Service Awards plaques to ten longtime volunteers: Sally Lennon (41 years’ service), Marjorie Kunz (39 years), Walter Kunz (39 years), Betty Stines (39 years), William Stines (39 years), Ida Blalock (31 years), William Blalock (31 years), Joseph Rutten (30 years), Hugh VanZelm (25 years) and Sheila VanZelm (25 years), the release stated. 
 
Newman also recognized a diverse group of businesses, churches, foundations, and individuals whose donations support the center’s work.
 
The ISC, located near the Port of Wilmington, serves the spiritual and material needs of more than 7,000 seafarers whose ships dock at the port each year, coming from all around the world. Its work is done almost entirely by volunteers and it relies for funding exclusively on voluntary donations, the release stated.