APS recently honored six full-time employees who have demonstrated dedication to their communities through volunteer efforts.

This year, the winners of the top award -- the APS Community Service Award -- are Michael Dyrcz and Patrick Fraher, who will each be honored by APS donating $2,500 to a charity of their choosing on their behalf.

Dyrcz is recognized for volunteer service with the Buckeye Valley Fire Department. Fraher is honored for his leadership in youth development programs with the Arizona High School Cycling League.

Mona Cauley of Peoria received the Employee Choice Award for her work in animal welfare by socializing shelter pets to prepare them for adoption. She will also be honored with a $2,500 donation to the charity of her choice.

Raymond Beezley, Brannon Hampton and Avery Thresher were award finalists; each gets to choose one charity recipient of a $500 donation.

The idea for the awards came from APS Executive Vice President Mark Schiavoni.

“We encourage employees to serve in our communities because it is the right thing to do on many levels,” he said. “But, the best reason for community service is the goodwill and relationships that come from it. Volunteering puts a familiar face on APS and lets our customers know we are more than just a bill in the mail. It tells them that we are part of our communities and have a commitment to the people who live here.”