MADISON – A community organizer and volunteer is the latest recipient of the Madison City Coin.

Rebecca Brown accepted the coin from Maura Wroblewski, Council Member for District 1, at the Madison City Council meeting on Aug. 24.

Brown has served as chairperson for Madison ReadyFest since its inception. “ReadyFest is one of my favorite events of the year, as it is a gift and a blessing to the community,” Wroblewski said.

ReadyFest originated in 2018 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “The first event was actually held during a tornado warning,” Wroblewski said. The event is free for residents to attend.

The event brings together vendors and community organizations, such as Huntsville Madison County Builders Association or HMCBA, Madison Hospital, Not One More Alabama and Rhode Construction Tornado Shelters. “Vendors offer a special price for those interested, as well as put on demonstrations such as SARTEC, the Search and Rescue program with dog handlers,” Wroblewski said.

In 2019, the event was held at West Madison Elementary School. “This year, ReadyFest was held at what organizers hope will be their permanent location, Discovery Middle School,” Wroblewski said. The theme of ReadyFest is “Life happens. You need a plan.”

The coin’s presentation on Aug. 24 officially “passes the torch” from church to city in organizing the event, although volunteers will always be needed. “Rebecca has chaired ReadyFest with leadership, attention to detail and freely giving of her time, talents and treasure,” Wroblewski said.

The City Coin is the highest honor that the city can bestow. “It was an honor and privilege to recognize one of our Madison residents for her volunteerism for the community,” Wroblewski said.

ReadyFest is held on the Saturday during “Severe Weather Weekend.” For more information about ReadyFest, email madisonreadyfest@gmail.com or visit madisonreadyfest.com.