American Lung Association Honors Michelle McMahon and Allen Wentworth as 2025 Volunteers of the Year

At its annual awards dinner in Chicago on Friday, June 27, the American Lung Association honored Michelle McMahon of Western New York and Allen Wentworth of Colorado as recipients of the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Awards. 

“Over their years of volunteering for the American Lung Association, Michelle and Allen have demonstrated unwavering commitment to raising awareness of lung cancer, supporting research and providing aid to those affected by lung disease,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “We are proud to recognize their incredible contributions and celebrate the impact they have made in their communities and across the country.”

Michelle McMahon – Western New York
A 15-year lung cancer survivor, McMahon has dedicated her life to lung cancer awareness, advocacy and support. Since her diagnosis in 2009, McMahon has worked tirelessly to ensure that no family has to face the devastating words, “You have lung cancer,” alone.

McMahon founded the Take a Breath for Life Foundation, a community-based initiative that became a formal partner of the American Lung Association in 2020. Through this partnership, she has raised over $130,000 in support of the Lung Association’s lung cancer initiatives. She also serves on the American Lung Association Local Leadership Board in Western New York, actively supporting fundraising, awareness and fellow volunteers.

Beyond her work with the Lung Association, McMahon is deeply embedded in her local community. She is the Chairman of the Board for the Bread of Life Outreach Center, which is a local food pantry serving five rural towns in western New York. She delivers Meals on Wheels and through the years she has endeavored or assisted in many community initiatives addressing the needs of her town from education, recreation, food insecurity and more. 

Allen Wentworth – Colorado
Wentworth has made a lasting impact on lung health through his leadership, education, and advocacy. A respected respiratory therapist, educator, and mentor, he currently serves as Chair of the American Lung Association Local Leadership Board in Colorado, Co-chair of the Colorado Lung Health Committee, and Chair of the annual Moving Mountains Patient Symposium, a vital Colorado conference for collaboration among patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. 

Wentworth’s mentorship has helped shape the next generation of respiratory professionals, and his advocacy efforts—including those on Capitol Hill—have played a key role in advancing lung health policies nationwide. 

The Volunteer of the Year awards are given annually to individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment and achievement in the fight against lung disease. This prestigious award recognizes volunteers for their remarkable contributions and the enduring impact of their efforts. For more information about McMahon, Wentworth and other Lung Association awards, please visit our website.