LENS Foundation Announces 2025 Award Recipients to Be Honored at the 2026 Cheese Ball

The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms has announced its 2025 Volunteer Award honorees, a trio of residents whose service, leadership, and generosity have strengthened the island in ways that echo well beyond their day-to-day roles. Each will be recognized at the 2026 LENS Annual Banquet: The Cheese Ball—a night that blends heartfelt gratitude with the kind of community spirit Isle of Palms is known for.

Founders Recognition Award: Dimi Matouchev

Few exemplify the steady, roll-up-your-sleeves commitment of the LENS mission quite like Dimi Matouchev. A financial advisor at Edward Jones on Isle of Palms, Dimi brings the same clarity and thoughtfulness he offers his clients to his work with LENS. His innovation, diligence, and consistent engagement have become a touchstone for other Founders, elevating both the mission and the momentum of the organization. He serves with an ease and humility that make his leadership all the more impactful.

Volunteer of the Year: Paige Hauff

The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes exceptional dedication to service, and this year that honor belongs to Paige Hauff. As the Executive Director of Girls on the Run, Paige shapes wellness-based programming for young people across the Lowcountry. But her reach extends even further on Isle of Palms—she serves as Race Director of the LENS Wild Child Triathlon, sits on the Wild Dunes Community Association Board, and currently leads SIES Friends as president. Paige’s leadership is steady, thoughtful, and hands-on; she meets community needs with both strategy and heart.

George Reeth Leadership Award: Ambrose Schwallie

Longtime resident Ambrose Schwallie receives the George Reeth Leadership Award for his exceptional stewardship within the LENS Endowment Group. With a career marked by strong business judgment and nonprofit expertise, Ambrose brings a strategic mindset grounded in forward-thinking sustainability. He is unafraid to ask hard questions, champion new ideas, and encourage deeper, long-term planning. His influence has strengthened the foundation in ways that will benefit Isle of Palms residents for years to come.

About The Cheese Ball

This year’s banquet promises to be one of the most memorable gatherings LENS has ever hosted. The Cheese Ball is equal parts celebration and community catalyst—a semi-formal evening featuring a live jazz-trio, an elevated dining experience, and a spirited Big Cheese Competition, where fundraising meets friendly rivalry in support of Isle of Palms Police and Fire Departments.

Guests can expect a lively program, a legendary keynote speaker, opportunities to recognize volunteers and first responders, and an atmosphere that blends island charm with philanthropic purpose. From the opening reception to the final toast, the evening is designed to honor those who serve our community—and those who step forward to support them. Tickets and event details will be available here, with proceeds directly funding essential LENS programs, equipment needs, community outreach, and family support initiatives for first responders.

The 2026 Cheese Ball invites residents, neighbors, and longtime friends of the island to gather for an evening that celebrates dedication in its truest form. It is a night of music, meaning, and gratitude—and a chance to applaud this year’s honorees whose contributions continue to brighten and strengthen the Isle of Palms community.