On Sunday, November 10th, 2024, the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site was filled with gratitude and celebration as we hosted our annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. This special evening was dedicated to honoring the tireless efforts of our volunteers who have contributed significantly to preserving the history and legacy of the Packard Proving Grounds.
Honoring Exceptional Service: The Tolonen Award

2024 Tolonen Award recipient, Donna Lombus
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Tolonen Award to Donna Lombus. This award is given annually to a volunteer who has shown outstanding dedication and effort in preserving and promoting the rich history of the Packard Proving Grounds.
Donna Lombus, who grew up near Packard and had a career as a nurse, reconnected with the Packard Proving Grounds community in 2009 after a severe injury. During her recovery, she found a renewed sense of belonging and purpose through her involvement with the volunteers at the site. Over the past two years, she has volunteered over 700 hours, taking on various roles from assisting with weddings and car shows to becoming a knowledgeable docent.
When asked about her volunteer experience, Donna radiates a genuine love for the Packard Proving Grounds. She encourages others to take the leap and join our community, assuring them that there is something for everyone, regardless of their time commitments. Her message is clear: just take that first step and embrace the enriching journey that awaits.
Q: How did you feel when you heard your name announced as the recipient of the Tolonen Award?
Donna: “I was incredibly happy and proud. I got a bit emotional when I got up there because it’s such a meaningful recognition. You don’t volunteer for the accolades, but it’s nice to know that your efforts are appreciated.”
Q: What experiences have been the most rewarding while volunteering at the Packard Proving Grounds?
Donna: “I’ve been volunteering for 12 years, and the tours have been the most rewarding. Sharing the history and my love of Packard with people, especially those who don’t know what Packard is, is very fulfilling. It’s also wonderful to see the joy on older visitors’ faces when they recall their memories of Packard cars. For example, on his 87th birthday, we gave a gentleman a ride in a 1937 Packard, and he was beaming from ear to ear. Moments like these make it all worthwhile.”
Q: What’s one thing you want to say to people interested in volunteering but have yet to make the leap?
Donna: “Volunteering gives you something meaningful to do and keeps you active. There are so many areas of interest at the Packard Proving Grounds, from working on cars and gardens to being a docent or helping with events. It’s not about punching a clock; it’s about finding something you enjoy and becoming part of a community. If you’re curious, just come out for a tour and see if it’s something you’d like. You’ve got nothing to lose, and you might find a new passion and a new family here.”
Donna Lombus and her fellow volunteers
The Revival of the Packard Proving Grounds
The Packard Proving Grounds has a storied past, serving as a significant site for automotive testing and innovation during the height of the Packard Motor Car Company’s success. However, like many historic sites, it faced challenges as the years went by, including periods of neglect and the threat of demolition.
Thanks to the dedicated efforts of our volunteers and supporters, the Packard Proving Grounds has experienced a remarkable revival. Volunteers have been instrumental in the maintenance, restoration, and operation of the site. Their hard work ensures that future generations can appreciate the history and legacy of Packard vehicles and the innovation they represented.
This revival has included the restoration of historic buildings, the preservation of vintage Packard cars, and the hosting of numerous events that celebrate automotive history and community. The Packard Proving Grounds now stands not only as a testament to the ingenuity of the past but also as a vibrant community hub for history enthusiasts and car lovers alike.
The Origin of the Tolonen Award

Dave and Sue Tolonen
The Tolonen Award was established in 2014 and is given out annually to a volunteer the Packard Motor Car Foundation (PMCF) feels has contributed significant time and effort to the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site. The first award was given to Dave Tolonen and his late wife, Sue, who were the inspiration behind the award. Their generosity, time, and effort in maintaining and restoring the Packard Proving Grounds were instrumental in preserving this historic landmark.
The award commemorates the legacy of this remarkable couple, whose passion for the site was matched only by their tireless efforts to preserve its history. The criteria for the Tolonen Award are stringent, reflecting the high standards set by its namesake. Recipients must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the Packard Proving Grounds, significantly contributing to its mission through their volunteer work. Donna Lombus embodies these qualities, making her a deserving recipient of this year’s award.
Looking Forward
The Volunteer Appreciation Dinner was not just a celebration of past achievements but also a look forward to the future. With the continued support and dedication of our volunteers, the Packard Proving Grounds is poised to keep thriving and growing as a historic site and community landmark.
We invite everyone to join us in our mission. Whether you’re a history buff, a car enthusiast, or simply someone looking to give back to the community, there are countless ways to get involved. Visit PackardProvingGrounds.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities and upcoming events.
In closing, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all our volunteers. Your hard work and dedication are the lifeblood of the Packard Proving Grounds, and we are profoundly grateful for your continued support.
For a glimpse of the evening’s festivities and to see our volunteers in action, check out our Volunteer Appreciation Video.
Stay tuned for more updates and stories about our volunteers, events, and the ongoing efforts to preserve the rich history of the Packard Proving Grounds. Thank you for being a part of our journey!