Salvation Army recognizes volunteers, partners
The Salvation Army presented awards to outstanding supporters of the agency Thursday, March 26, at Broadway Palms Dinner Theatre. Army staff and friends gathered to honor and showcase volunteers and community partners who give of their time, talent and resources to help others.
In 2008, over 7,000 volunteers reinforced the ranks of The Army’s small staff to give back to those in need in the community.
“We could not do what we do without the dedicated volunteers who give of their time and service to help the many people in need. Their commitment to The Army is a blessing and we will be forever grateful to them,” said Major Art Penhale, corps officer for the Lee & Hendry Counties Salvation Army.
Top Awards
Top Awards were given to outstanding groups and individuals for their oustanding service in 2008:
Group of the Year Lee County
Bayside Estates
– For devoting themselves fully and wholeheartedly to helping with Christmas Cheer application process and assisting shoppers at the Toyshop
Business of the Year Lee County
Burt Hill/Pollock Kreig Architects Inc.
– Provided the architectural drawings and rendering for our newest Family Store at no charge and other services throughout the year for no cost to The Army
Disaster Volunteer of the Year Lee County
Walt and Beverly Ryschkow
– Driving the canteen and respresenting The Salvation Army at events throughout the county
– Setting up shop to serve hot dogs and sodas and consistantly give the best of their service
Volunteer of the Year Lee County
Joe and Nilda Monks
– Volunteered their time to The Army with enthusiasm and smiles for many years
– Served on a Disaster Relief Team in Texas during the aftermath of Hurricane Ike
– Coordinated a Kettle site in North Fort Myers
– Partner with their neighbors for the Day of Caring fundraiser to ensure local families have holiday turkeys
Volunteer of the Year Hendry County
Marcia Carter and Helping Hands Minstry
– Single handely provides hundres of children’s toys during Christmas
– In 2008, served 523 children and 168 families
– Started her own ministry from this great mission called Helping Hands
– Has used her hands and her heart to serve hudnred of children and families through the years
Volunteer Bell Ringer Hendry County
Sweet Love
– Volunteers to focus on others and ignore personal struggles
– Was one of the first to sign up this season
– Rang bells at Ace Hardware for 150 hours
Advisory Board Member of the Year:
Charles Basinait
– Valued member of the Advisory Board for over 9 years
– Passionately embraces the mission of The Army
– Serves a strong leadership role as Chair of the Property Committee
The Salvation Army also recognized the tireless volunteers who donate their time and talents throughout the year making it possible to carry out the mission of The Army.
The awards ceremony for The Salvation Army takes place annually. Volunteers can participate in a variety of activities at The Salvation Army such as working with the Meals with Compassion program, stocking and sorting cans at the food pantry, assisting with mailings, helping with disaster work and ringing bells at Christmas.
If you are interested in volunteering to help others through The Salvation Army, call (239) 278-1551.