BiG Heart: Citizen Recognition Program
The BiG Heart: Citizen Recognition Program honors Battle Ground residents, organizations, and businesses whose exceptional service, achievements, and contributions have enriched our community.
By recognizing these individuals and groups, we highlight the everyday actions and extraordinary accomplishments that make Battle Ground a vibrant and connected place to call home.
Program Highlights
The BiG Heart Citizen Recognition Award will be presented to one recipient selected each month. Selected recipients will be honored at a City Council meeting with a commemorative BiG Heart stone, a lapel pin, and a certificate.
BiG Heart Stones
Like a stone, the strength of a community is built over time. Each one is unique—just like the individuals who contribute their talents and energy to make Battle Ground stronger.
The heart-shape reminds us that service begins with compassion—a willingness to give of yourself for the benefit of others.
Individually, each contribution matters. But together, they form the strong and vibrant foundation on which our community thrives.
Eligibility Requirements:
Nominees may be of any age and must meet at least one of the following:
- Be a Battle Ground resident
- Be an organization located within the City (including non-profits, schools, and service clubs)
- Be an owner, operator, or employee of a business within Battle Ground city limits
Both individuals and groups are eligible. City staff/elected officials acting in their official capacity are not eligible.
Recognition Criteria:
Nominees may be recognized for one or more of the following:
- Achieving an exceptional accomplishment that brings positive recognition to the community (e.g., major athletic or endurance milestones, competitive titles, or notable awards at the regional, state, national, or international level).
- Demonstrating outstanding volunteer service that reflects strong commitment and a meaningful, positive impact on the Battle Ground community
Nominations:
Anyone may submit a BiG Heart nomination! To make a nomination, please complete a Big Heart: Community Recognition Program nomination form below.
The Mayor reviews all BiG Heart nominations, determines eligibility, and selects the recipients of the BiG Heart: Citizen Recognition Awards.
All award decisions are made at the Mayor’s discretion. If a conflict of interest arises, the Mayor may choose to recuse themselves. In that case, the Deputy Mayor will assume responsibility for selecting the award recipient(s)
The nomination form will be submitted through the city clerk and reviewed and evaluated by the Mayor or his/her designee. Once submitted, the information entered becomes a public record and is subject to public disclosure.
Nomination Form - BiG Heart: Citizen Recognition Award
Past Award Recipients
Virginia Mendez-Rodeman
April 2026 Recipient
On April 20, Mayor Eric Overholser presented Virginia Mendez-Rodeman of Battle Ground Martial Arts Academy with the City’s first BiG Heart Award.
Virginia was recognized for her incredible achievement in competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where she earned a gold medal at the 2026 IBJJF European Championship in Lisbon, Portugal—representing Battle Ground with excellence on the global stage.
Her dedication, resilience, and work ethic are a powerful example of the greatness within our community. CONGRATULATIONS, VIRGINIA!
Lynne Groth
June 2026 Recipient
For nearly 30 years, Lynne has been turning routine visits to Battle Ground Auto Licensing into positive experiences with her kindness, warmth, and incredible customer service.
Many customers happily wait for the chance to be helped by Lynne—and it’s easy to see why. She has a gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for.
Thank you, Lynne, for sharing your BiG Heart with Battle Ground and for making our community a little brighter every day.
Kimberlee Roaden & Rego Athletic Scholarship Fund
July 2026 Recipient
Inspired by her late husband, Coach Mark Rego, Kimberlee transformed his passion for mentoring young athletes into a lasting legacy of opportunity through the Rego Athletic Scholarship Fund.
For years, the scholarship has helped student-athletes in the Battle Ground and Evergreen School Districts pursue higher education while carrying forward Coach Rego's values of leadership, perseverance, service, and character.
Thank you, Kimberlee, and everyone who supports the Rego Athletic Scholarship Fund, for sharing your BiG Heart with our community and investing in the next generation.
Liz Berrigan
August 2026 Recipient
On August 3, Mayor Eric Overholser presented Liz Barrigan with the City’s BiG Heart Award for the month of August.
Liz was recognized for her countless hours of volunteer service with Battle Ground Little League, becoming the heart of the concession stand and a champion for the league's players and families. Her generosity helps create opportunities, unforgettable end of-season celebrations, and lasting memories for young athletes.
Her tireless dedication, remarkable work ethic, and quiet acts of kindness demonstrate that the greatest victories are found in serving others with a generous heart. CONGRATULATIONS, LIZ!
Jessica Cole
September 2026 Recipient
On September 21, Mayor Eric Overholser presented Jessica Cole with the City’s BiG Heart Award for the month of September.
Jessica is someone who brings heart to all she does. Through her leadership with Evoke Cascadie and her continued involvement throughout Battle Ground, Jessica has used her voice with courage and compassion while encouraging others to find their own. She continues to show up for Battle Ground in ways that strengthen connections and inspire others to get involved.
Thank you, Jessica, for your energy, care, and hear you continue to share with our City. CONGRATULATIONS!