Mark’s Community Service

What Makes Mark Tick

Caring about others and giving back to the community are values Mark Sigrist learned from his late parents, Gary and June Sigrist. His philosophy of service is best capsulized in one of his favorite quotes:

“The richness of a society isn’t measured in how wealthy you are but in how you take care of your most vulnerable.”

That's why he was named in 2021 as one of five finalists in the Columbus Dispatch's Everyday Heroes contest. Like so many of his Grove City neighbors, the newspaper recognized that Sigrist is a special person.

Sigrist is probably best known for founding in 2012 the annual Grove City Turkey Wattle. About 2,000 runners, bicyclists and disabled people – many of them dressed in colorful Thanksgiving costumes - participate in the annual event near the Pinnacle development. It raises about $25,000 a year for the Grove City Food Pantry.

Mark’s other charitable work includes:

  • Being a volunteer and fundraiser for the Grove City Buddy Ball League, a baseball program for the physically and developmentally challenged.

  • Championed an on-line delivery program for the Grove City Food Pantry, involving volunteer drivers to deliver food and emergency items to the homes of the needy during the COVID pandemic.

  • Prior to being elected to Grove City Council in November, 2021, was assigned and served on the Board of Keep Grove City Beautiful, which sponsors various cleanup and environmental programs. 

  • Served as chairman of the Zero-Waste cleanup committee at the annual Our Lady of Perpetual Help Community festival, securing SWACO Grants and publicly advocating creation care. 

  • Founded an initiative to periodically sell T-shirts and sweatshirts that read “Thank You GCPD.” The shirts supporting our police were purchased at his cost for $3 and $10 respectively, usually near Christmas timing.

In The Community

  • Community Hero

    Mark was recognized as an Everyday Hero finalist for his impactful work with the Grove City Buddy Ball League and the Grove City Food Pantry.

  • Community Action

    Through the annual Grove City Turkey Wattle, Mark has raised over $220,000 to assist individuals in Franklin County with food accessibility since 2012.

  • 33-Year Career

    In Mark's 33-year career at Honda North America, Mark helped build consensus and plans for roughly $500 million in annual personnel, factory construction, machinery and supply needs.

  • Creating Space

    Serving on the board of Keep Grove City Beautiful, Mark ensures our community has access to clean, sustainable outdoor spaces.

  • Bringing People Together

    Mark united students, businesses, law enforcement, and first responders for community Bike Bus Days, enhancing community engagement and promoting active transportation.