I would like to recognize Mental Health Community Case Managers.

I would like to recognize Mental Health Community Case Managers. Often, they are the front-line workers who communicate with a lot of the disenfranchised persons who live in our communities. They are trained to assess a clients' needs and to work tirelessly to ensure those needs are met. They are very often 'unsung heroes'. The most satisfying part of their job is a "Thank You" from a client who has had their needs met and whose lives have been made more comfortable because of help from their Case Managers.
- Donna Tizzard
St. John's, NL

Volunteers Don & Lil Grabinsky are our community heroes having worked countless hours with their church to head up and help out local Food Banks & Mea

Volunteers Don & Lil Grabinsky are our community heroes having worked countless hours with their church to head up and help out local Food Banks & Meal Centre initiatives.

The Edmonton Bissell Centre, a community help centre, has a weekly Sunday free community meal for 250-300 people. Don and his church had for a near decade, annually committed to putting on one of these Sunday meals. That includes organizing, supplying the food & serving. Recently Don and his church with only a couple of days notice was asked in a moment of desperation if they could go beyond that annual call and help for the upcoming Sunday that was missing for that day a support team. Don quickly organized and aided in making the day another successful meal for those in need.

In addition to that Don and Lil with other church members help out a local community “Food Bank & Bread Run” by getting up early on Saturday mornings to pickup from Grocery store food and bread suppliers to help out later in the morning families that are in need.

Many thanks to Don and Lil and his church team for giving the most valuable gift of “time” to those in need in our community.
- Rick Medlock
Edmonton, AB

For their courage and dedication we wish to recognize all Volunteer Fire Departments,

For their courage and dedication we wish to recognize all Volunteer Fire Departments, and in particular the 60 member force of North Perth who provide a 5 minute average response time in our rural community and area

- Allan Johnston Limited
North Perth, ON

I am taking this time to thank my boss Janice K. Seargent

I am taking this time to thank my boss Janice K. Seargent, OTR/L of 20 plus years for just being her. She has not only been my boss but my best friend as well as a sister image. We have daughters about the same age and have been through many personal endeavors as well as business trials. She never has gotten upset with happenings here at the office and her outlook is there isn't anything that doesn't have a solution. Thank you boss, "I love you". Gloria

- Idaho Falls, ID

I believe that Crystal Kasnoff with M&I bank here in Tucson deserves to be recognized for all she does for non profits!

I believe that Crystal Kasnoff with M&I bank here in Tucson deserves to be recognized for all she does for non profits! She supports anything Diabetes, ALS, All local law enforcement and has single handedly raised more than $20K for her causes! Go Crystal!!

- Sean Moloney, Texas Roadhouse
Tucson, AX

Volunteers like Harry make it possible for not-for-profit agencies the flourish.

Harry Wright - Kamloops BC

Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Kamloops Food Bank. In 2009, almost 15,000 volunteer hours were recorded. Volunteers play an intricate part of ensuring the operation runs efficiently and cost effectively.Without the dedication of our volunteers, Kamloops Food Bank would cease to exist.

Harry Wright has been volunteering his time five days a week to the Kamloops Food Bank for the last nine years. A retired nurse, Harry works harder then most people half his age. He takes great pride in the warehouse and his job in the Food Bank. Harry oversees the sorting of the produce collected through our FoodShare program as well as directing volunteers in our breakdown room.

Over the years, Harry has become a permanent fixture at the Food Bank. He is quick to say good morning and share with you his latest joke. Harry always has a sparkle in his eye and is truly a wonderful representation of a volunteer that is a benefit to this community as well as to the Kamloops Food Bank.

Through Harry's dedication, positive attitude and strong work ethics, many have benefitted from knowing Harry and working along side him. Even now, when Harry is at home recovering from knee surgery, he is interested in how things are going and counting the days until the Doctor allows him to drive so that he can come in and help out.

Volunteers like Harry make it possible for not-for-profit agencies the flourish.

Kari Smith
Event & Fundraising Coordinator
Kamloops Food Bank

Rotary Clubs of Kamloops.....

Rotary Clubs of Kamloops

October 2008 saw the Kamloops Food Bank in state of emergency. Funds were low, food on the shelves was running out and client numbers were up..... That is when Rotary came in and saved the day.

All five Rotary groups of Kamloops with help of Rotaract, decided to run a city wide food drive to collect food and fill the empty shelves. This was no easy undertaking. The city has to be divided up into managable areas to collect food. Volunteers had to be organized to collect and sort the food. The city had to be educated to leave a food donation on their door step for pick up. The first food drive was a success with over 15,000 pounds of food collected.

Since the first food drive, 3 more food drives have been held. In total over 97,000 pounds of food has been donated and collected.

The food drives have been a miracle to the Kamloops Food Bank. The number of volunteers that Rotary provides and the number of hours donated by each individual is amazing. There are so many individuals within the Rotary Clubs of Kamloops who are instrumental to the success of the food drives. The passion and committment that Rotary has to the community is truly overhwhelming.

The Kamloops Food Bank feels very blessed to have the dedication and support of such a wonderful group of volunteers who are so involved in their community.

-Kari Smith
Event & Fundraising Coordinator
Kamloops FOod Bank

Community Hero - Dale Bass of Kamloops This Week

Community Hero - Dale Bass of Kamloops This Week

Angels come in many forms and for the Kamloops Food Bank, Dale Bass in one of our angels. Dale has been a reporter for Kamloops This Week for years. She gives a voice to many non-profit agencies in this community and brings awareness to many issues that others may shy away from.

Dale isn't afraid to say what others only think. Her articles cause conversation about issues that can be ignored or swept under the carpet.

Not only does Dale help keep our needs, statistics and information in the spotlight, she helps to organize a yearly fundraiser for the Kamloops Food Bank called "Music Makes Meals". Each November Dale brings together some of the most talented people in Kamloops to put on a show to benfit the Food Bank. It is a night of music that Dale puts her hear into.

Dale's love of music and her passion to give back have benfited the food bank for years. Dale represents what giving back is all about. The Kamloops Fod Bank is lucky to have her on our side.

-Kari Smith
Event & Fundraising Coordinator
Kamloops Food Bank

I would like to submit Gary Archer of Gary’s Maintenance in Niagara for this honour and special mention of community hero.

I would like to submit Gary Archer of Gary’s Maintenance in Niagara for this honour and special mention of community hero. Gary is the owner of Gary’s Maintenance in St. Catharines-Niagara. He also is part of the Rodfathers here in the area.

Gary’s Maintenance performs automotive repair work for the Community Services food delivery trucks as a donation to the organization/community.

Gary is actively involved in the local Cruise Nights for hotrods and vintage automobiles. The monies raised are donated to local charities at the end of each season.

Gary also volunteers his time and sound equipment to other various local fundraising events, which almost always include fancy cars, seeing as he is a Rodfather, himself. He is well known around town for his DJ’ing and MC’ing. These events are most pleasant with Gary’s jovial personality – making fundraising fun…

All to often, the volunteers and services/monies donated to community causes are not acknowledged... Thank you for providing this opportunity. My name is Lisa and I am Gary's bookkeeper.

- Lisa Chaing, Gary’s Maintenance
Niagara Falls, ON

My boss's mother is 72 years old.....

My boss's mother is 72 years old. She has owned and operated several resturants throughout the years and officially sold off her last obligation in May of 2008. Immediately upon her retirement, she came to work with her two boys and her late husband at their newest venture, which is a scrap metal recycling business. They built her a kitchen and everyday she comes here and cooks for the employees as well as taking care of her 96 year old mother. This woman has fed everyone in Bessemer, McCalla and Tuscaloosa and is well loved by all. Her name is Elizabeth L Weeks. Her friends call her Betty so we hardly ever hear Elizabeth.

- Kristy Abraham, Scrap Magnet
McCalla, AL

Ralph Schiffbauer lived a life of service within his community, his nation, and his world.

Ralph Schiffbauer lived a life of service within his community, his nation, and his world. As a young man, Ralph served within the navy and educated other sailors. His careers here within the our community included running the local cafe in order to serve others, and then a construction company, in order to build for the future. Hard physical work did not intimidate Ralph, as he dug out around homes to rebuild foundations. Often Ralph would commission his employees to scoop out the gutters in town on his dollar, because the job needed to be done. Later in Ralph's life, when he saw homes sitting idle in our town, he bought them, made neccessary repairs, and then offered the homes for rent or sale. Many children have come into our school system because of the availability of housing. Also on Ralph's mind were the little things: he would replace the tattered flag at the ball field, empty the trash from Main Street and the city park, offer his time and equipment for civic projects, and befriend children in the community. Ralph Schiffbauer served on our city council for almost 30 years, and toward the end of his life, had stepped into the position of Mayor. In this capacity, Ralph gave countless evenings for discussion of projects, many Saturdays for the completion of the projects, and was an invaluable source of information in regard to the location of utility lines and when they were installed. Ralph's was an exemplary life lived in service to others.

- Yvonne Krehbiel
Bern, KS

I nominate Sandra Musice of Lebanon, MO as a community hero.

I nominate Sandra Musice of Lebanon, MO as a community hero. Sandy is the Director of the Laclede County Literacy Council in Lebanon. Even though she works countless hours each week, she insists on only accepting minimal pay for her position. Sandy's hard work and diligence makes a big difference in our community through her directing, coordinating, and teaching. Thanks in part to Sandy, Lebanon can proudly proclaim to have an educated workforce.

- David Reid
Lebanon, MO

I'd like to submit Shianne Carswell from Kamloops, B.C. as a community hero.

I'd like to submit Shianne Carswell from Kamloops, B.C. as a community hero. Shianne works tirelessy as the campaign/fundraiser for the JDRF Kamloops chapter. Shianne coordinates the Telus Walk in the Park event every year, holds monthly meetings, tirelessly solicits new sponsors for a very worthy cause. The amazing thing about Shianne is her absolute humility, she does all of this work on behalf of JDRF and usually steps into the background when accolades are being handed out. Shianne is everything a community hero should be, dedicated, selfless, humble and caring.

- Clint Hicks
Kamploops, BC

Lisa Houston is the principal of Centerville School and a mother to 265 students,

Lisa Houston is the principal of Centerville School and a mother to 265 students, she is the most giving person I know. If a little one has a ache or pain she always makes it feel better, and they only want Mrs. Houston too comfort them,they adore her.

Our little town of Centerville has a very small elementary school, the school district busses in children from nearby Sanger to make a full student body. Lisa is motivated and very inspiring.

Our school motto is "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfull, commited people can change the world.” That is Lisa all rolled up in one phrase.
She is always the first to rally the troupes, teachers, parents and PTA, when she hears someone is in need.
For Easter Lisa found out one of our students could not go on a family vacation, not enough seat belts in their car, so getting a collection together was just the next step, that little girl was overwhelmed when two over filled baskets with toy’s clothes and Easter goodies appeared on their door step.

Lisa Houston is always their to lend a helping hand regardless if it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or the simple fact there’s is a need .There is no doubt that the successes that Centerville school has accomplished over the past years should be attributed to students, parents, teachers, and administration, but catalyst of that success rest square on the shoulders of Lisa Houston.

- Judy Munsey
Sanger, CA

My community hero is Stephanie Wright.

My community hero is Stephanie Wright. Not only does she provide my daughter with excellent daycare she has been a Daisy Troop leader, and she works with the North Dakota National Guard to provide daycare for the children of parents returning home from service. After such long tours, families, especially spouses need time to transition from single parent households back into a partnership. She has a great attitude about life in general and sees the humor in everyday things. In addition to doing daycare in her home she also bartends a couple evenings a week. And everyone knows how many burdens are laid on the shoulders of a local bartender. This weekend the establishment she works for is putting on a memorial fishing tournament with proceeds going towards educational scholarships for local students. Anyone who knows her considers themselves a very fortunate individual. She would be thrilled to know that $25 would be donated in her name to feed the hungry.

- Nancy Westman, SPF Energy
Minot, ND

I believe that my friend Kim Berg should be nominated for all her years of hard work of community service.

I believe that my friend Kim Berg should be nominated for all her years of hard work of community service. Kim is a well liked business owner in Biwabik, MN. She has a beauty shop and she often opens early and stays late to accomadate the senior community. Kim is always willing to pick up and drop off her clients if they cannot make it.
Kim has served her whole life in Biwabik for community events. Kim has been the Treasurer for the 4th of July committee since I can remember. We tease her that she is the President also. She says no, but she is the one who always gets the celebration taken care of year after year.
Kim and her husband Todd put in countless hours for set-up and tear-down for the 4th of July celebration to happen.
Kim is also very active in the seniors lives in Biwabik. She is always willing to give a hand where ever needed. She is a wonderful daughter to her parents. She donated one of her kidneys to her mother and runs to appointments with her father weekly if not daily.
Her mothering skills are glourious. She has a great repor with her two children.
I truly think she can do it all and always have that great smile for everyone to see.

- Deanna Mickelson
Biwabik, MN

Where I live, we have a Martial Arts Academy, Energy Martial Arts.

Where I live, we have a Martial Arts Academy, Energy Martial Arts.
They are really big on recycling and encourage others in our community to recycle as well. Also, every year we have a skate night where everyone attending, donates at least $2 or more. What ever is raised, the Academy matches and donates to the food bank in our community.
They teach not only martial arts, they teach us and our families to have respect for each other and our surroundings (Mother earth).

- Helen Handspiker
West Hill, ON

To me this recognition needs to go to those who volunteer their time to the betterment of their community

To me this recognition needs to go to those who volunteer their time to the betterment of their community and in particular, the volunteer fire fighters. The demands of this job are one thing when done full time, but to me doing it on a volunteer basis is yet a whole different ball game.

These guys don't get a chance to shut it off at the end of their shift because their shift never ends. Those that are truly dedicated are available to the call to duty 24/7/365. They jump out bed in the middle of the night, jump up from the dinner table, run from the family BBQ, etc. to respond and help their neighbours, friends, etc., often having no idea what they might be walking into. Sometimes they run into some very gruesome, stressful or dangerous situations that can be life altering not only to the victims of tradgety, but also to the fire fighters and their families. All for a mere pittance of monitary reimbursement, much of which they then have to pay tax on.

These guys are truly worthy of your recognition.

-Al Bering

Ridgeville, ON

Every Christmas one of our employees, Mary, organizes food hampers for the food bank.....

Every Christmas one of our employees, Mary, organizes food hampers for the food bank. What is special about her contribution is that she is willing to do this completely on her own if no one else can helps her. She has an amazing attitude and is non-judgemental about the people who receive the hampers. She personally encourages all employees to donate and personifies the spirit of the Christams season. I think she is an inspiration and having worked with her this past holiday have a new appreciation for what it means to be generous.

- Andrea Taylor
Edmonton, AB

I belong to Word of Life Fellowship, a non-denominational church, in Mi Wuk Village....

I belong to Word of Life Fellowship, a non-denominational church, in Mi Wuk Village. I have been on the receiving end and the giving end of what this church believes in. When we are without money and need food, they are there to give us coupons for the grocery store. I've seen then pay for prescriptions, PG&E, propane bills and rent when families don't have enough. When someone is sick, meals are brought in and the house is cleaned and laundry done. When someone needs a ride to the doctor, someone will step up and drive them. The older people that can't get out and get their own wood will find a bunch of young people in their driveway with cut up wood or if there is snow these same young men will show up and shovel their driveways and walkways. It is an amazing thing to see the example that these people are in our community. I appreciate what I have learned about caring for those around us. Makes you feel like you are not alone. You don't have to be a member of this church to have them reach out to you and nothing is required or asked of in return. It's just a show of love. It's what the church used to be when this nation first started.

- Mi Wuk Village, CA

Kenny has been the best delivery guy of any of our vendors.....

Kenny has been the best delivery guy of any of our vendors. He always says hi to everyone. He is dependable and goes above and beyond. Ameripride is very lucky to have such a wonderful employee. His customer service is 200%, his demeanor 200% his smile and attitude - priceless.

- Joanne Borgerding, Clinic Manager
Apple Valley, MN

Dawns canine rescue in the washington post...One Woman's Dogged Effort....

dawns canine rescue
dawnjoy@hotmail.com

ross mills
Falconer, ny 14733

7169854792

Dawn Thompson walks across the back porch of the house in Falconer, N.Y., where she lives and operates a canine rescue. Photo by Michael Williamson, The Washington Post FALCONER, N.Y.--A cat with a shattered voice that sounded more like a dove's coo than a purr kept her distance as eight or so dogs charged out of Dawn Thompson’s house and into her backyard.
The cat had been thrown from a car. And in their own ways, many of the dogs, too, had been broken.

There was Duke, a small mutt that was brought to Thompson after his owner moved into an apartment that didn't allow pets. Duke walked slowly through the yard, trailing the other dogs. Then there was Ringo, a chihuahua and rat terrier mix that survived an illness that felled his siblings. He jumped high for attention. Diesel, a black lab and rottweiler mix, ran wildly through the yard as if he knew he didn't need to beg to be noticed. The only large dog among a pack of small ones, he usually plays the role of peacekeeper, breaking up spats among the other dogs. He was the only pup from a litter of 10 to survive after Thompson found his mother wandering in the streets so emaciated, she didn’t look pregnant.
“This is the real travesty, the thing people can’t see,” Thompson said. “Sure you know your neighbor lost his job, but do you know your neighbor just gave up three pups and they’re here at Dawn’s”

These puppies were only weeks old when Dawn Thompson got a call saying the shelter could not keep them because they had not yet been weaned from their mother. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post Michael and I ended up at Dawn’s Canine Rescue, which Thompson runs out of her home in Falconer in upstate New York, after reading a letter she wrote to her local newspaper. We had been eating dinner in a nearby town when we saw it. She had saved 2,000 animals over 19 years, she wrote, but she could no longer do it. The increased number of abandoned dogs, combined with new local health ordinances that were increasing her costs, was “too much for one person to handle, both physically, emotionally, and financially,” she wrote. She was done.

When Thompson first started the rescue mission, she envisioned she would take in eight to 10 dogs at a time, a small enough number that each could be spoiled--even within the hours left over after her day job in the office of a motor shop. By 2005, she was taking care of about 20 to 30, which was a strain, but manageable. Then the recession hit and pets that once fit comfortably into their owners’ lives and budgets no longer did. Dogs that had been cherished suddenly became a burden, disposable. Thompson said she has come home from work to find dogs tied to trees, tossed over her fence and left on the street for her to discover.

On the day Michael and I visited, she had 37 dogs, 14 puppies and 17 cats.
“Something has to be done,” Thompson said. She doesn't allow herself to consider limiting the number of animals she takes in, especially because the official shelter euthanizes animals. “You can’t with all that’s going on in the world today. I mean, I could, but how many would die?”
JumperSND.jpg

Many of the small dogs jumped high to get attention as they played in Dawn Thompson's yard. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post Yet, the 49-year-old doesn’t know if she and her husband, Wayne, can afford to keep doing it. Because they are not a legally-recognized non-profit but do have now a shelter coverage and 501 from a sister shelter, she gets no grants or funding. She estimates that she spends about $16,000 a year of her $24,000 salary on veterinarian bills, licensing costs and dog food, among other expenses. The couple, who have two grown children, have blown through their savings, taken out a second mortgage and depleted Dawn’s retirement fund. They also lost their homeowners insurance because of the number of dogs at the house.

And then there's the strain it has placed on their marriage.
“At first he was tolerant,” Dawn said of Wayne. “But he hates that everything he wants to do he has to do by himself.”
By the time she finishes all the chores -- feeding, playing and cleaning -- she gets to bed after 2 a.m. and is up at 6 a.m. to do it again before going to work. She said she stopped making dinner long ago and vacations are unheard of.
“You know the thing I miss the most -- you can’t dress up, you can’t look nice,” she said. “People don’t realize when you do this the right way, you have to give up everything. You have to give up normality.”
GreetDawnSND.jpg

When Dawn Thompson gets home from work, she's greeted by the canines she's rescued. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post No, it’s not fair to Wayne, she said.
The other day, he was stung by bees while lifting a dog house and passed out several times before the ambulance arrived. When the paramedics asked her if she wanted to go with him to the hospital, Dawn said all she could say was, “How can I?”
“I’ve got dogs to put back in the kennel. I’ve got dogs to put back in the kitchen,” she said “There is no spontaneous.”

Wayne Thompson, 53, said he understands why his wife started the canine rescue and why she can’t stop.
“They don’t have jobs,” he said. “They can’t take care of themselves. You can’t just forget them.”
Still, it’s reached a critical point, beyond what two people can handle, he said. It’s gotten out of control. He grinds bearings for a living and recently switched to the night shift not only because the couple needs the extra money, but because someone should be home during the day to care for the dogs.
BigEarsSND.jpg

These two dogs wait their turn as a group of dogs crowd a bowl of food nearby. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post “It doesn’t matter if it’s 95 degrees outside or 15 below zero, you have to do it everyday,” Wayne said. “Did you notice the roofs?”
The roofs on the outdoor kennels, as well as those on a barn and milk house on the property, caved in during the last snow storm. Thompson said he tried to shovel every day, “but I just couldn’t keep up.”
It’s why Dawn won’t let herself feel sick. There's no time. She recently agreed to have surgery on her thyroid only after the doctors said she could go home the same night to take care of the animals the next day. She also has Crohn’s disease and needs to have about 18 inches of her small intestine removed, but she’s been delaying the surgery.
“When were you supposed to have it?” I asked.
“Probably a year ago,” Wayne answered for her.
“I’ve been putting off my next test only because I know he’s going to want to schedule surgery,” she said.
There's no time, she said. More dogs are being abandoned and fewer are being adopted.
LeashesSND.jpg

Leashes outnumber coats on a rack outside Dawn Thompson's house. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post Inside the house, a dog named Smiley peeked his head out of a fenced-off area where some newer arrivals are kept. Thompson had shaved Smiley because he was dropped off with matted hair that extended down to the ground. Behind him, a small black mutt stood on a cage, watching the three of us closely. “He was dropped off heart worm positive and had convulsions,” Thompson said. “Now, he’s terrified of people.”
Most people probably expect a pungent odor and chaotic scene to hit them when they walk into Thompson's home. But it was clean and orderly. When a cacophony of barks broke out, Thompson zeroed in on the troublemaker and yelled “Jefferson! Amazingly, every pooch quieted down.
“We make sure we keep it at a dull roar,” she said.
It helps, she added, that she has a system in place aimed at housebreaking and socializing dogs before they ever come into the house.
OldManSND.jpg

The oldest dog at the rescue farm is named, appropriately, "Old Man." Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post The newest arrivals are placed on a concrete floor in the barn. (On the day we visited, we saw a cage of puppies that Thompson took in after a shelter called to say they couldn’t keep them because they were only weeks old and needed to be fed by hand). The next stage involves moving the dogs to an outdoor area with a hay floor. (We saw a mother and four of her pups in this area. There had been seven, but Thompson found homes for three). Finally, when the dogs are ready, Thompson said the smaller ones will move into the house and the larger ones will go to a kennel area outside.
She grabbed three bags of dog food and led Michael and me to the kennels.
In one cage, we saw Shelby, a collie that has diabetes and takes medicine to control seizures. In another, a dog named Hooch walked in circles around and around, a metal bowl in his mouth. He stopped only occasionally to see if anyone was looking. Across the yard was a dog appropriately named Old Man. He was given up at age 10 and has been with Thompson for five years.
HoochSND.jpg

Dawn said this pooch named Hooch was probably mistreated and underfed. He carries a metal bowl in his mouth all day long. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post Thompson usually spends hours in the kennel area, cleaning cages late into the night, but because we were there, she took a rare break. She scooped a cat named Trouble into her arms and sat on the porch with him. He is the son of the cat with the broken voice, born just hours after her mother was tossed from the window.
“My little dove,” Thompson said of the mother.
CatBagSND.jpg

This cat, named Psycho, uses Michael's camera bag as a scratching post. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post She knows some people will never understand why she keeps up the rescue effort despite the strain on her health, finances and marriage. She expects there will be people who criticize her for not dedicating that energy to taking care of human beings. But she’s been a foster mother to five children and housed exchange students. She said she knows where she is needed.
“People say, ‘Why do you waste your life?’” Thompson said. “But you don’t know what it’s like until you’re taking one that’s broken and you fix it and it goes to this forever home.”
As we sat there talking, watching Trouble nuzzle up to her, Michael and I got the sense that despite her letter, she probably wouldn't stop the rescue effort anytime soon -- that she couldn't, even if she knew she should.
“I can’t worry about the future when these guys don’t have a tomorrow,” she said.
DawnHugSND.jpg

Dawn Thompson with a cat named Trouble that was born after his mother was thrown from a car. Only two kittens in the litter of five survived. Photo by Michael Williamson The Washington Post

By Theresa Vargas | September 16, 2009; 3:12 PM ET Share This: E-Mail | Technorati | Del.icio.us | Digg | Stumble Previous: A Model Business Plan
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Comments

I had the pleasure of stumbling across Dawn a few years ago while looking for a family dog on Pet Finder. A dog that looked promising was recently transferred to her home from Kentucky and she agreed to let me visit. It was our lucky day... Maggie, our Walker Coonhound, has brought love and laughter into our lives, as well as more than a few funny stories. We've kept in touch over the years and her continuous respect, support and love for animals is an inspiration. Thank you for bringing attention to the plight of these animals and the woman who loves them.

Posted by: lisa_callaghan | September 16, 2009 8:47 PM | Report abuse I adopted my wonderful dog, Stanley from Dawn. She drove to North Carolina to resuce him and other puppies that were left to die at a garbage dump. She hand fed him with a special diet because he could not eat regularly due to the cruel treatment he received before his rescue. Stanley is now a 110lb beautiful, healthy boy. He has never shown signs of agression, and is a cuddly, well behaved dog that thinks he's a lapdog. Dawn is a true caregiver that has dedicated her life to rescuing these defenseless animals and finding them the safe, caring homes that they deserve.

Posted by: lorimclark | September 16, 2009 9:20 PM | Report abuse I am proud to call Dawn Thompson a friend. I have known her for almost seven years, and her dedication and love never ceases to amaze me. I have adopted from her, received help from her, and worked alongside her and I have yet to meet a more kind hearted person. Dawn is an angel and will never know how much she touches the lives of everyone she meets. I only wish I could live closer to her and help carry on her legacy when she is too tired. Everyone should be lucky enough to meet Dawn Thompson at least once in their lifetime...

Posted by: dreafish | September 17, 2009 2:57 AM | Report abuse I have adopted two dogs from Dawn's Canine Rescue. My Zoe and Abigail were both dogs that were in Dawn's care when I found them and needed love, attention and patience. I have the greatest respect for Dawn and would highly recommend adopting a rescue dog when you are in search of a dog for your family. Both Zoe and Abigail have turned out to be the best dogs anyone could ask for. If you are considering adopting an animal, please consider contacting Dawn's Canine Rescue or another local rescue.

Posted by: kjwoloszyn | September 17, 2009 9:39 AM | Report abuse Like others who have been fortunate enough to come into contact with Dawn, I too recently adopted a wonderful new puppy from her rescue, and in doing so, I gained a friend. Upon getting to know Dawn, what I am most impressed with is her generosity of spirit and purity of intent. The animals that find their way to her are met with unconditional love and attention. She knows each dog or cat thoroughly and understands their individual needs. This type of care takes great time, effort and money - all of which are quickly being depleted; this is a great responsibility for one person, despite the unswerving dedication that exemplifies Dawn. I suggest we put our money where our mouth is and donate whatever we can (time as a foster parent financial resources) to Dawn's rescue operation (see Dawn's Canine Rescue homepage and iGive.com). I would hate to think that at some point in the near future she won't be able to do the important work she is doing right now. And what a loss that would be for all of us - animals and humans alike.

Posted by: itslydia | September 17, 2009 10:47 AM | Report abuse I adopted Tanner in 2005 just as a little rolly polly puppy. Dawn had just brought him and his mom and brother to NY from Indiana, yeah all that way, and how lucky I was that day to be there to meet my Tanner. I couldn't believe she goes everywhere to help these poor animals. Dawn is an inspiration to me and should be to everyone, faced with so much adversity she continues to help the animals that can't help themselves, and put them first. If anyone deserves a Million Dollars, she's it. I am a strong believer in adoption of pets and I thank Dawn so much for everything she has done and anyone looking to rescue a pet should contact Dawns Canine Rescue.

Posted by: Blessed5 | September 17, 2009 10:50 AM | Report abuse I found Dawn through Pet Finder. From my first phone call I knew that this woman rescues these animals from the heart. I knew that I was going to adopt our new dog from her. I noticed on Pet Finder that most people want a large adoption fee which made me feel as though I was buying a dog and not rescuing one. After speaking with Dawn, I knew she was different. We will be getting my puppy from her very soon and we can't wait! She is so careful to make sure that the puppies are healthy before she will let them go.
Dawn has been doing this for years, she is ill and has no help and I know she must be extremely tired but yet she keeps going. I love the fact that she is so devoted to saving the lives of these animals. Dawn doesn't get any donations and pays for everything out of her own pocket. It's very rare to meet people like this!

Mary Larsen is my next door neighbor and what a neighbor to have.

Mary Larsen is my next door neighbor and what a neighbor to have. Mary was my 2nd grade teacher many years ago. So when I moved to Morgan after being married in 1960 I was glad to know someone in town from my earlier years. I always knew she was a good person but after she came to Morgan she showed her true self to many others. This special service actually began when her son Joe brought home dented canned goods from his high school job at the grocery in Redwood Falls. She would give away what they couldn't use. The "food shelf" grew naturally as the couple learned of more people in need and as word spread about that kind family on Fergus Ave. providing help without prying or passing judgment. The program kicked into high gear in the 1980s especially when the program affiliated with the Twin Cities branch of Second Harvest, the national food bank that distributes surplus food to agencies for redistribution to the needy. "The WE CARE program, however, is much more than a food shelf," says Father Wyffels, pastor at St.Michaels Church, which provides the program with its insurance and tax exempt status. "Mary does a lot of listening." There is always a steady stream of telephone calls and knocks on the door, conveying tale after tale of need. Many agencies around the area send clients to We Care because they're tied up in red tape over how often a client can be served, and because they know that people get hungry more than three times a year. "We fill in the gaps that the other organizations can't fill" says Mary.
The program distributes an average of 13,000 pounds of food a month; serving as many as 200 families. There are many individual stories I could tell you, but will keep this brief and as short as possible. She says "I get tired sometimes, but who doesn't." She found a Chinese proverb that explains her mission better than I can. It says: "If you want to be happy for an hour, take a nap. If you want happiness for a day, go fishing. If you want happiness for a yer, inherit a fortune. If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody." This is Mary Larsen & her family of helpers for sure.

- Jerilyn Forbrook, Wayne's Inc.
Morgan, Minnesota

Janet Welter works fulltime at Daktronics, Inc. in Redwood Falls....

Janet Welter works full time at Daktronics, Inc. in Redwood Falls. They make signs for Walgreens & Dairy Queen and more. She also works for us here at Wayne's Shell Gas Station & Convenience Store 2 or 3 times a week. She and her family have a team for Relay For Life. She is the team captain. The team is called Carl's Commando's. Carl stands for a nephew of hers who passed away from cancer several years ago. At the Relay they do dove release in memory. She is chair person for the luminaries and orders all the sand for the bags and of course they have to have sand put in them so guess who does that. She is always willing to help anyone when asked. She makes potato salad, BBQ, and most anything you would want for gatherings of other people. You only have to ask. She helps out with babysitting a lot too. Her husband says "she doesn't know how to say NO". Jan is truly a hard worker and a giving person. We think she is well qualified for this honor.

- Wayne's Inc.
Morgan, Minnesota

When people in Morden and Southern Manitoba think of baseball, they think of Joe.

Joe Wiwichar. When people in Morden and Southern Manitoba think of baseball, they think of Joe. Well into his 70s, Joe is the full time Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame Director (volunteer). Joe is coaching at least 2 baseball teams that I know of this year and is on the Morden minor ball executive, as well as it's equipment manager. He is on the South Central baseball league executive and this year as he has done for as long as I can remember he made the schedules for all the age groups and teams. When baseball season is done he coaches hockey. Our community is bigger because of Joe's dedication.
6 years ago I was Joe's assistant coach for a Bantam AA team and we were at a provincial tournament. The coach of the opposition team was and "old guy" with long white hair and and a white handlebar mustache. After the game was over he asked Joe if he remembered him. Turns out Joe had coached him for baseball decades earlier and he was nervous about coaching a team against his former coach. Joe's team prevailed that day.
Every where we went people had great stories and anecdotes about Joe's baseball playing and coaching. Way to go Joe!

- Morden, Manitoba

Dawn Thompson has a heart of gold.

Dawn Thompson has a heart of gold. She has taken it upon herself to help dogs that are abandoned or about to be put down in shelters. She travels all over the states going to shelters and rescuing dogs that need a second chance. Ms. Thompson does this all on her own without the help of government or town funds. She relies on donations of food, blankets, toys - pretty much anything to help a dog feel comfortable and healthy. She is currently on disability and spends every cent she has on dog food and supplies with no consideration to her needs. If you would like more information about Dawn's Canine Rescue here is her website.

http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/NY521.html

Thanks to Dawn, we have a new family member whose name is Josie. A beautiful and sweet dog.

- Ashville, NY

Ted Honcharik, President of Pacific Tank Lines saw relatives' homes in Florida destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1992.....

Ted Honcharik, President of Pacific Tank Lines saw relatives' homes in Florida destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1992. "I wasn't in a position then to do much," Honcharik said, "But the devastation made a huge impact, and when Hurricane Katrina came along, I knew I had to act."
By 2005, the year Katrina destroyed much of New Orleans, Ted Honcharik was the owner and president of Pacific Tank Lines, a petroleum supply business based in Riverside, Ca. He sent a truck filled with fuel and a driver to Mississippi, and he joined the driver there to fuel cars and fill gas cans for generators as they slowly made their way into New Orleans.
Just a year ago, Honcharick formed a 501 (c)3 non profit FUEL RELIEF FUND to help disaster victims obtain fuel for basic survival. When the recent earthquake in Haiti toppled buildings and, by some accounts, killed over 200,000 people, Fuel Relief Fund Volunterrs, including Ted and his daughters, were there within days to help. Along with a Massachusetts-based relief group, Honcharik rode a bus from the Dominican Republic for 12-1/2 hours to get to Port Au Prince, where he found a vegatable oil delivery truck and retrofitted it to hold diesel fuel. Riverside's The Press-Enterprise ran an article under the headline "Riverside Company Helps Keep the lights on in Haiti Through Its Nonprofit." The article told how Honarchik and other Fuel Relief Fund volunteers drove around Haiti's ravaged cities looking for lights because where there were lights, there were bound to be generators that needed fuel.
"When disasters strike, everyone thinks first of food, water and medical care and, of course, those are life's neccessities. But somehow this food, water and care must get to isolated victims- or visa versa- and medical emergencies don't just happen in the daytime," Honcharick pointed out. Fuel is one of the necessary basics of disaster relief."
Ted Honcharik's goal is to grow Fuel Relief Fund through individual and corporate donations, and he anticipates the day that USAID comes on board. "I hope a major oil company will recognize what a good idea it is to donate to the FUND," he says. In the meantime, he's raised over $50,000 and spent weeks as a hands-on volunteer to supply fuel and return electricity to earthquake - shattered Haiti.

- Kathy Renn, Fuel Relief Fund
Riverside, California

In response to your letter.....

Dear Mr. Evans,

In response to your letter, which we received on April 16, 2010, at their regularly scheduled Council meeting of May 3, 2010, Council unanimously voted to recommend the Sexsmith and District Museum Society for the recognition of how they make Sexsmith a rewarding place to work and live.

The Museum Society has been instrumental in preserving the heritage of this area and they work tirelessly to ensure our future generations will have elevators, a working blacksmith shop, and a fine example of early housing in this area. They commissioned and erected signs for seventeen historic building in Sexsmith that outline the history of each of the buildings. The area has a comprehensive history book because of this society, as well as license plates that herald Sexsmith as the 'grain capital of the British Emplire', which it was in 1949.

This society enriches Sexsmith, contributes to the knowledge of our history and we are proud to put their name forward for your company's recognition of people in our community.

Yours sincerely,

Carolyn Gaunt, Town Administrator

- Sexsmith, Alberta

PLUM CITY RESIDENT SERVES COMMUNITY AND CUSTOMERS

PLUM CITY RESIDENT SERVES COMMUNITY AND CUSTOMERS

Doug Watkins is in his fifth year as Village President, but he has been our Police Chief, Fire Chief, a Village Board Trustee, and is in his second year a president of the local chapter of the Lion's Club in addition the being an owner of Watkins Lockers an important business in our community. It is his drive to serve people and to serve our Plum City Community that gives Doug the energy not only to run a prominent local business but the Community as a whole. He likes helping and working with people including the young people in our Community. To establish a relationship with our Town's youth Doug worked with the Department of Natural Resources to offer snowmobile safety classes through the summer months. Normaly these classes are held during the winter break at school but Doug offered them during summer school. He helped the kids build a sled you could ride on the grass used it for demonstrations. the DNR thought is was great and even made a video of Doug and the class. If nothing else happens during Doug's tenure as our Village President he can point with pride to the renovation of our Main Street and know that he played a HUGE part in making this happen for our Community. Doug also had new benches put into our Spring Pond Park, and worked with the Plum City Garden Club to install hanging flower baskets. As the Loin's club President he helps on the many fundraising activities throughout the year. Even after being born here, graduating school here, raising a family with his wife Goldie here and running a business here this local businessman and community leader still counts himself lucky to live in this beautiful community alongside the people who work hard for it.

- Plum City Village, Plum City, WI

I would like to submit Ken Milbrandt as the person who makes a difference

I would like to submit Ken Milbrandt as the person who makes a difference in our town. Ken is a retired member of the volunteer fire department and now works part-time as custodian for our Community Center and city offices. Ken has done a wonderful job of maintaining a clean and lovely facility. Many people comment on how the building is in such fine shape. Ken also works with area youth who need to complete service hours. He lends a hand any way he can in the community. To sum it up - Ken is terrific!

- Scandia, MN

Marguerite and "Budd" Andrews.....

Marguerite and "Budd" Andrews, two senior citizens, are both very active in our community of Pelican Rapids, MN . They regularly visit nursing homes, support our library, and are great gardeners. They're an asset to our town.
During our annual International Festival held in June they do Walking Tours of Pelican Rapids giving information concerning the history of the community and old buildings. We are very fortunate to count them among our local citizens. PELICAN RAPIDS SENIOR CITIZENS 21 First Street N W PELICAN RAPIDS, MN 56572-4010

- Pelican Rapids, MN

I would like to recognize Dr. David Mc Clusky......

I would like to recognize Dr. David Mc Clusky, his receptionist Judy and his nurse Nicole. Dr. Dave's family goes back 3 generations in the Twin Falls area. Why I think and he and his staff are people you can count on is because when I go into his office I am not just a number. He and his staff still provide a professional but personal and caring practice. Sometimes, as with many other doctors I have to wait awhile, but because of the kind care I receive, it is well worth the wait.

- Bob Papac, Austin Transportation
Twin Falls, ID

I would like to recognize Margaret Pondo

I would like to recognize Margaret Pondo, who is a kind and capable volunteer on our Food Assistance line. Margaret works both the morning and afternoon shifts on Mondays and Tuesdays and fills in when we’re short on other days. Margaret holds the current record of calls taken in one day, an unbelievable 282 calls! We are grateful for Margaret’s contribution to Winnipeg Harvest.

Catherine Wirt
Winnipeg Harvest, Winnipeg, MB

My story is about Bob Nichols!

My story is about Bob Nichols!

Bob is one of the nicest people anyone could ever meet! He\'s always cheerful and has a demeanor about him that lets you know that anything you tell him is being heard. If ever I\'m having a bad day, I can count on Bob to cheer me up and put a smile on my face. He\'s always thinking of others. I haven\'t known Bob very long, a year at most, but I know this was probably one of the toughest years of his life losing his wife and best friend, and yet he still came into Harvest on an almost daily basis and had kind words and a smile for everyone. Bob is truly a one of a kind guy and I\'m very grateful to have had to opportunity to meet him and consider him my friend!

Shannon Shushkewich
Winnipeg Harvest, Winnipeg, MB

Lisa is one of our special volunteers.....

Lisa is one of our special volunteers. I got to know Lisa because she would come into my office to see if I had any shredding for her to do. Now when she comes in we always greet each other with a hug and relate what we did the night before or what we are doing on the weekend. Lisa is the bright spot in my day.

Karen Grenfell
Winnipeg Harvest, Winnipeg, MB

Retired from his job, Dave is a dedicated volunteer.....

Retired from his job, Dave is a dedicated volunteer in many areas of Winnipeg Harvest. He works primarily in the call centre and is "on-call" at any time we need him. Dave once called us to apologize that he could not be in the next day as he had been attacked and pepper sprayed by two assailants...he refused to give them anything. Dave also helps neighbourhood people at his local foodbank. There is nothing he won't do!

- Winnipeg Harvest, Winnipeg, MB

Eleven years later.........

Eleven years later…
Bob Nichols and George Conway showed up at Winnipeg Harvest early in 1999 to “see what they could do to help”. Eleven years and thousands of hours later, Bob and George are still at Winnipeg Harvest, doing what they can to help! They’ve made a significant contribution to the fabric of Winnipeg Harvest!
Nichols and Conway both bring years of business and volunteering experience to Winnipeg Harvest. This knowledge and dedication proves invaluable when equipping a not-for-profit warehouse and office. “We need…” and either Bob or George knows where to get it. To top it off, the item is usually donated or acquired at an affordable price.
Bob and George are known for their team spirit. You can find a listening ear; whether you’re the “Harvest Potato Man” or a new volunteer looking for the lunch room or the locker room. Big Bill, the Harvest Potato Man, found acceptance and a new place to live through the efforts of Bob and George. They became family for Bill, helping him to sort out the transition from the Occidental Hotel to an apartment with hot running water where he didn’t have to share his pumpkin pie with the cockroaches.
Many things have changed at Winnipeg Harvest over the years. Bob and George would probably say they’ve changed too, but their volunteer spirit and dedication to Harvest remains constant.

- Winnipeg Harvest, Winnipeg, MB

Working with someone like Ed Voit.........

Working with someone like Ed Voit, manager our maintenance department here in the City of Okabena, makes my job a lot easier. Not only is Ed a nice guy with a good sense of humor, he is always willing to help out and answer all my questions, even the stupid ones! As a long time resident and business man here in town, he is very knowlegeable and gets things done. Ed is a great asset to our community.

- Sandy Kalfs, Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Okabena, MN

It's hard to pinpoint one person....

It's hard to pinpoint one person. A community is everyone who lives there and everyone is a hero in one way or another, for a big reason or a small reason, to someone each day.

- Listerhill Credit Union, Killen, AL

Jenny is the most giving person I know....

Her name is Janny she is a cashier and is the most giving person I know. She knows everyones name in the cafetaria and is alway wanting to help anyone that she feels needs. At all major holidays she always has something to give to the student at work and to her co-workers be it candy or some unusual kind of treat from her country or something that she found new and unusual. She is aways sharing with everyone.


- Nina Gouvela,
- Aramark, Toronto, Ontario

Everyone on our crescent looks out for one another,

Everyone on our crescent looks out for one another,and if anyone needs help we are all there to lend a hand.

- Tammy Brooks, Ajax, Ontario

Jonathan Marshall is someone we can count on!

Jonathan Marshall is someone we can count on! He's pleasant and always helpful.

-Beth MacMillan, Toronto, Ontario

I would like to regonize Herb Hudson for contributing to our community.

I would like to regonize Herb Hudson for contributing to our community. He administrates Bread of Life, a local(Wichita, Kansas)food pantry. His church funds this panty and give extra on Thanksgiving and Christmas, when children who usually recieve free school lunches are home for the holidays.
Herb also administrates Garments of Praise, a clothing ministry. Garments of Praise also reaches out to those affected by disasters like fires and tornados with not only clothes, but some household items.

- Donna Machutta, Wichita, KS

Coach Dennis Groll has been involved professionally and volunteering.....

Coach Dennis Groll has been involved professionally and volunteering with young people for over 20 years. After retiring from NLU as a track coach, he established a youth track and field club for area youth. He is dedicated to teaching our youth about the world of track and field in a Christian setting teaching good sportsmanship and team work. He also volunteers at local high schools by helping with their track teams and meets. Coach Groll is a definite positive influence in our community.

- Sally, West Monroe, Louisiana

Shemeka Alexander

Shemeka Alexander is someone who is counted on!

Filer, Idaho

Bob Papac as 'Person Who is Counted On'
- Filer, Idaho

AmeriPride has been a great business to work with going on 5 years now.....

AmeriPride has been a great business to work with going on 5 years now. We have over 400 employees in uniforms. Our company appreciates the hard work and business relationship we have with this wonderful company. They also support the company team that fundraises for The American Cancer Society.

Thank you very much AmeriPride!

-Cheryl Brunkhorst, Lyons Magnus
Fresno, CA

Trio of men in downtown Cincinnati, OH

Dear Mr.Evans:

Thank you for the opportunity to recognize a trio of men in my community who make downtown Cincinnati, a cleaner and safer place to live and work. Two are City of Cincinnati police officers and the third is a social outreach worker who works for Downtown Cincinnati Inc. (DCI). Sgt. Steve Saunders, PO Tim Eppstein and Chico Lockhart work together tirelessly to help the homeless in our downtown get help and housing. There are many complaints about panhandlers and homeless individuals throughout our downtown from the businesses and residents. Steve, Tim and Chico are the first ones called in to address these complaints and their compassion is beyond compare when they engage these folks down on their luck. They know most of them by name and have been quite successful in helping them get housing, and with luck, jobs.

These big, strong, handsome men think nothing of entering the homeless encampments to talk to these people. They climb into places that no one else would ever venture into, especially in the darkness of early morning hours. They check on the "regulars" in severe cold and heat to be sure they are alive. They helped the 2010 Census team be sure they were counted. They work with various social agencies to address their needs and realize some just want to live on the streets. Those who choose life on the streets are given boundaries they must abide by; otherwise they will fall into legal trouble. In most cases there is quiet but mutual respect.

I cannot say enough about the dedication of Steve, Tim and Chico. They are rare individuals who choose to help and find answers rather than turn away those in need.

They help make our City wonderful and I am blessed and proud to know them.

Sincerely yours,
Jeannie Bechtold, CRE Corporation
Cincinnati, OH

Kate Grissom of Rolling Hills Casino, California

It’s not often you come across someone that makes such a profound difference to the community around them. I’m extremely fortunate to have been able to observe and work with one such exemplary person for over ten years. That person is Kate Grissom, Director of Marketing at Rolling Hills Casino.

It’s hard to talk about Kate’s accomplishments without launching into a long list of her accomplishments. I have watched Kate succeed time after time in gathering together a diverse group of community members and instilling in them a reason and a purpose to band together and create something good. With little exception, she changes the lives of those people that work with her, and I’ve watch many of those people carry on to great things after applying what they’ve learned from working with Kate.

Allow me to give you a few examples of how Kate uses her drive and passion to make a difference in our community:

• Kate is one of the founding members of NEXT Tehama – a group of young professionals in the North State. Kate was instrumental is pulling together this next generation of young professionals, dedicated to channeling their energies into revitalizing the local community. This group of people chose to live in the area and through Kate’s energetic leadership, is working to improve county-wide education and infuse fresh ideas into long established community events.
• Kate has been key in the revitalization of the Red Bluff Round-up -- an 87-year old rodeo that is the oldest and largest on the West Coast. Kate pulled together a diverse group of events that were happening concurrent with the rodeo and brought back “the good old days” with a unified marketing campaign that leverage all of these events. Instead of many unconnected events, it is now a week-long celebration of one of Red Bluff’s most visible signature events.
• Key member of Expect More Tehama – an expansive group of community members that came together to better the graduation rates of Tehama county high schools, and to increase the number of students that go on to college. Kate is clearly a catalyst for this important group and has lobbied hard with the casino’s Foundation to support this critical issue.
• Project Rebound is an economic development group that formed as a result of a consultant’s report recommending key efforts for business revitalization of Tehama County. This report identified Kate as a key player in three groups needed for the success of this revitalization plan.
• In an effort to offer alternatives experiences for area visitors, Kate invited local agricultural growers in the community to come together and form the Tehama Trail – an agri-tour that includes wine tasting at local vineyards, olive and olive oil tasting from local growers, produce from local fruit and vegetables stands, and antique shops in downtown Red Bluff. Directly through Kate’s efforts, the group was formed, a high quality map was created, and a strategic plan implemented to leverage the group’s visibility through coordinated and cooperative marketing efforts.
• A local bicycle club, Chico Velo, puts on the Wildflower Century – a 100 mile bike ride that attracts over 4,000 people to the North State. The sizeable proceeds go directly towards increasing bicycle commuting, community health and awareness. In late 2008, the club’s long-time general manager was incapacitated in a serious bike accident and the club floundered. Kate volunteered her expertise to bring together the fragmented cycling community in a strategy session that was crucial in helping to reorganize and reviving the club. Thanks to Kate’s direct efforts, the now reenergized club has the backing and investment of the local community for their goals.
• To help Tehama County recover from the loss of several large, long-time community events, Kate pulled together the unusual combination of a hot air balloon rally, a classic cars show and a ribs cook-off all on one day – the Ribs Rods and Rides event. Three deserving community non-profits benefited from the proceeds of the three events. Not only does Ribs Rods and Rides boost tourism in the North State, it also creates a fun, family friendly event. Simply put, this event never would have happened without Kate’s vision, energy, organizational skills, and leadership abilities.
• Lastly, Kate is on the St. Elizabeth’s Community Hospital Advisory Board. She gives of her time and skills to help the steering committee of the local community hospital deliver quality medical care to the town of Red Bluff and surround North State.

In short, I classify Kate as one of the most stellar humans and one of the most incredible women I’ve ever met. She works hard in so many ways to increase the quality of life for her community. Kate is innovative, inventive, energetic and most importantly, uses her natural leadership abilities for the good of the community as a whole. She succeeds time after time in organizing good things from diverse groups of people. Her commitment, ethics and selflessness make me proud to know and work with her.

Scott Chandler
Marketing, Rolling Hills Casino
Corning, California

Grand Berd Fire Department

Very simple story. Volunteer fireman Jim Lovie, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and gravely ill. Grand Berd Fire Department donated proceeds from Winter Carnival Breakfast to the family of firemand Jim Lovie, over $2,000. They look after their own.
- Jennison Construction, Ltd.

Serve Our Troops organization

We would like to nominate the organization "SERVE OUR TROOPS". This is a gathering of several businesses in the Twin Cities area who not only support our troops and what they are doing overseas, but also provide one (if not more) meal a year in a family gathering environment. This last year, there were two events. One was shortly before a group of Red Bull members went overseas. Over 3,000 soldiers and their families were treated to a steak dinner with all the trimmings prior to the soldiers "shipping out". The other meal occurred a few months ago. At that one, family members gathered and were able to eat a meal while watching their loved ones also enjoying a meal far, far away. All of this due to generous donations of material, time and services. Family members were also able to communicate with each other via the Skype media, allowing some parents to see their children and vice versa. The troops overseas were actually fed by members of the Twin Cities community who flew over with the steaks and all the trimmings. These were both emotional events that brought together individuals from across the community and around the world. Thanks to them and to all who take Pride in America!
- Wild Side Caterers
St.Paul, MN

Craig Barker MD Office Manager...

The office manager for our customer Craig Barker MD was looking for donations for a foster mother who needed some linens for the house hold. If the relationship with Ameripride was not satisfactory I don't think this customer would have inquired. Therefore in the spirit of giving and relationships I nominate the office manager for Craig Barker a 5 year customer.
- Ernestine Hurtado
Lubbock, TX