The first Billittier Foundation Community Service Awards were presented on June 30, 2006.

This award, created by Lou's wife, Ann, son Louis Jr. and daughter Mary Beth, seeks to recognize individuals whose commitment to serving the community and fellow citizens parallels the volunteer leadership and service contributed by the late Louis Billittier Sr. 

The first two recipients are Mr.Gene Vukelic, Chairman and CEO of Try-It Distributing Co., Inc. and Mrs. Diane Luce, of the Heritage Centers.

Gene is an outstanding business and community leader who generously gives of his time, concern and resources to those in need by assisting numerous worthy causes.  He serves on the board of many not-for-profit organizations and has headed major fund-raising events, most recently for the St. Vincent de Paul Society and for Christ the King Seminary.  He is a long-time supporter of Canisius High School.  Gene is vice president of the Board of Trustees of Restoring Sight International, which provides sight-saving surgeries to destitute persons around the world.

Diane Luce started her community volunteer work in Buffalo when she moved here with her husband Don, then a player for the Buffalo Sabres.  She immediately became active with the Sabres' Wives organization, raising funds on behalf of area charities.  Today she is director of special projects for Heritage-Oak Foundation.  Diane is an exceptional person whose leadership skills, dedication and genuine caring make her an asset to our community.  The Billittier Foundation is among the many that rely on Diane's excellent guidance and support.