Globe Mayor Al Gameros has been named a Valle del Sol’s Profiles of Success 2018 Honoree.

Maryn Belling presented Gameros with the “Exemplary Leadership Award” during the city council’s Oct 22 meeting.

The award gives “special recognition to individuals for their significant philanthropic contributions, support for a nonprofit organization and community development.”

Prior to his election as the mayor of Globe, Gameros spent nearly 30 years as a firefighter, 18 of which were spent as fire chief. Gameros is active in his church and makes himself available to any constituent who wishes to be heard.

In October 2017, a crisis hit the Globe-Miami community when the local domestic violence shelter learned that state-funding would be discontinued after 20 years of operation. Gameros worked tirelessly with state-level leaders, local tribes, local nonprofits and the county to advocate for the shelter and find solutions.

His collaborative efforts were rewarded and a new shelter for victims of domestic violence is currently in the works.

After the Oct. 22 presentation, Gameros thanked Belling for nominating him, and also thanked his family and Linda Oddonetto, the city’s economic development director.

Gameros went on to say that the award also reflects on the council he serves with, as well as the city staff, city manager, and the citizens of Globe.

“It’s the people in the trenches who do the work,” he said.