The Volk family of Scarborough was honored at the Spurwink Humanitarian gala on Nov. 14 for their activism and philanthropy on behalf of people with autism.

“We are honoring the Volks for their work going the distance for people with autism, through their company, Volk Packaging Corporation, their philanthropy and their volunteerism,” said Gabrielle Gallucci, Spurwink director of mission impact.

Nearly 400 guests began the evening at a cocktail reception, sat down to dinner and an awards presentation, emceed by Erin Ovalle of WMTW News 8, then danced to the Time Pilots. It was a vibrant, inspiring affair.

Elliott Pitts, regional fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network, chatted with Liz Cotter Schlax, CEO of United Way of Greater Portland, and Bob Farnham of Cross Insurance.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Wolff joined his wife, Sara Wolff, a law professor at University of Maine School of Law. Dan Morin, director of government affairs at MaineHealth, enjoyed the company of his wife, Dr. Jessika Morin, and Newell Augur and Heather Hamilton of Yarmouth.

“Spurwink is one of the largest providers in the state for people with autism,” said Eric Meyer, president and CEO of Spurwink, which provides behavioral health and education services for children, adults and families from York County to the midcoast and up to Skowhegan. “We knew the Volk family, their message and who they are made them the right fit to receive our Humanitarian Award.”

“It’s extremely humbling,” said Derek Volk, surveying a room filled with family, friends, colleagues and supporters. Volk was honored along with his wife, state Sen. Amy Volk, and their children Dylan, Mariah, Lilly and Serena. Derek Volk recently authored, “Chasing the Rabbit: A Dad’s Life Raising a Son on the Spectrum,”

“This year, it’s very special because the honoree has a son who received services from Spurwink, and he is living a successful, independent life,” said John McAnuff, chief financial officer of Spurwink. “We don’t do it alone. We do it with families. And the work doesn’t happen alone. It’s really a success story.”

Margaret Logan is a freelance writer who lives in Scarborough. She can be contacted at:

margaret08logan@gmail.com