Mary and Steve Rees are like so many other community volunteers. They are not seeking out the spotlight, but just looking to improve the community where they live.

In creating and leading the Revitalize Dunkirk effort in recent years, the couple has been able to rally support for beautification efforts while educating volunteers along the way through community meetings and gatherings. On Tuesday, the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation honored their efforts with the prestigious George B. Weaver Footprints award.

“I feel their most significant accomplishment has been bringing people together with their Revitalize Dunkirk,” said the couple’s son, Dylan. “I know that since the inception of that program, they have been key organizers in helping to keep people on task and recruit and make sure the efforts of the organization move forward.”

Some of those contributions include putting trash cans in Dunkirk, planting trees in Wright Park and Point Gratiot while also advocating for hanging baskets along Central Avenue in the heart of downtown. There’s other objectives the group has as well, including creating a rental housing registry.

Since 2013, Revitalize Dunkirk has stayed consistent with its mission of bettering city life. This week, the group — through the Rees’ honor — has received a bit more distinction.