By ADRIANA ALFARO
Family, gratitude and grace may be the perfect way to describe the Exchange Club’s 2022 Golden Deeds Award Dinner.
Not only was the 56th annual Golden Deeds Award presented to Ocean City resident Kathy Thompson on Friday night, but it was also the 75th anniversary of the Exchange Club.
Upon entering the banquet room of the Avalon Country Club, President Mark Cassidy greeted friends and family with a smile. Behind him was a display of photos dating back to the 1940s. Former President John LaRosa observed the photos with honor, pointing out his father in each one.
Since its national founding in 1911, the Exchange Club has helped to meet the needs of the nation and local communities for more than a century, making it the oldest American service organization that only works in this country.
Kathy Thompson, this year’s recipient of the prestigious award, is respected in the community for all that she does for those in need.
“Tonight, it’s about you, Miss Thompson,” said Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian, as he presented her with a ceremonial key to the city. “You do so much with grace and class, and I can’t thank you enough.”
Thompson was three years old when her family relocated to Ocean City from Chapel, Pa. She later attended Ocean City High School.
She worked a variety of jobs around the city, including at Steel’s Fudge on the Boardwalk and Bernie’s Market.
Thompson was also a librarian at the Ocean City Intermediate School until her retirement. All of the children knew her from the library, where she was known for her warm smile and kind words, according to people at the awards dinner.
Among her many activities, Thompson has served over 10 years as the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) board president and grievance chairperson and is currently on the Board of Trustees at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Ocean City.
For many years, Thompson has spent her Christmas and Thanksgiving organizing and cooking dinners at St. Peter’s Church and in God’s Kitchen every month to feed homebound, homeless and others in need.
Her mission been focused on the Ocean City community and throughout Cape May County.
She is often seen feeding, clothing and caring for people with compassion and inspiration. She is the unsung hero that leads her life in service to her community and the world, according to those who know her.
After dinner, speakers shared remarks and presented awards to Thompson.
“God-fearing and a good American, that’s what describes Thompson. We are so honored here in Ocean City to have you.” Cape May County Commissioner E. Marie Hayes said.
The Book of Golden Deeds committee also took turns sharing the meaningful impact Thompson has made in the community.
Former students of Thompson shared heartfelt memories of their childhood while presenting service awards from the state of New Jersey.
“She was always there for us and always brought us fudge,” joked Ocean City Councilman Bob Barr.
“I remember Miss Thompson in the cafeteria,” shared Assemblyman Antwan McClellan. “Thank you for taking care of the kids who were most vulnerable, making sure we felt accepted in our community, and empowering us to do greater things.”
At the end the night, Thompson shared an anecdote in which she overheard her father talking about her.
She quoted her father’s remarks to her, “You know Kathy, she’s always for the underdog, I think it’s going to give her a lot of heartache in life.”
“It’s worth it,” said Thompson recalling her dad’s sentiments.
