Joseph Ballerine and JoAnne Kosey are the driving force behind The Friends of the Fourth Volunteer Committee. Through their efforts and pursuit of community spirit, The Friends of the Fourth Committee constructed a framework, with the help of the Village President and Board of Trustees, which saved the Village's July 3rd and 4th parade and community celebration. Because of financial constraints, the Independence Day celebration had been eliminated, but due to Joe and JoAnne's leadership, they were able to preserve a piece of Riverside's historic heritage for generations to come. Particularly notable about the celebrations was the theme "Saluting the People of Riverside," which was a celebration of the heritage and diversity of the community. The theme was symbolized by the empty grand marshal car, which represented how everyone in Riverside was part of this important historic celebration.

Village President Michael C. Gorman says that "Joe and JoAnne embody the absolute essence of volunteerism on behalf of their community."