Spirt of Caring Awards
Volunteering and giving back to our communities should not go unnoticed. To honor those who spend countless hours in support of our mission, the United Way of Effingham County recognized the efforts of volunteers and organizations that have contributed outstanding leadership during the annual campaign for funds through the Spirit of Caring Awards.
Three Spirit of Caring recipients in the categories of Outstanding Volunteer, Outstanding Organization, and Outstanding Board Member are announced at the Board of Director's annual meeting in January of each year.
This is a great opportunity to recognize and reward those who give so much to help our community. They are thoughtful, committed citizens and organizations that continue to help change our world - one activity at a time! The Spirit of Caring Awards recognizes individuals who are committed citizens and organizations that stand out, giving countless hours to improve the quality of life in Effingham County.
Austin Brooks has volunteered his own personal time in orchestrating the two Live United DVD’s that were created to use during employee campaigns and for other promotional uses throughout the year. Austin spent many hours meeting with the United Way Campaign Committee to organize the making of the video, preparing questions, scheduling interviews, recording videos, and numerous hours editing, copying the DVD’s, and attending United Way meetings to ensure a quality video. He not only donated his time, but much of the materials needed in the creation of the video. Many positive comments have been received on the video. We would like to thank Austin for the work he has done, in sharing his time and talent, and congratulate him on being chosen 2011 Outstanding Volunteer!
Koerner Distributor, Inc.
Outstanding Organization
Koerner Distributor, Inc. has always been a supporter of United Way of Effingham County. They held their first employee campaign in 2002. Their 2011 campaign raised over $9,000 which was a 6% increase from last year. Koerner Distributor, Inc. was selected to be a “Lead Pacesetter” in 2006 and again this past year for their drive, dedication, and ability to think outside the box on ways to raise money. Aside from the campaign, they organized the first ever Bar Stool Golf event in 2011, raising $5,635 for United Way of Effingham County. Each year, Koerner Distributor, Inc. donates 1% of the United Way campaign goal as their company donation. Their support shows throughout the year by attending and donating to United Way fundraising events, and by having representation on the Board of Directors. Paul Koerner served as Board President in 1990, and Peggy Valenti served as Campaign Chair in 2010, and will serve as Board President in 2012. Thank you, Koerner Distributor, Inc. for all you do for United Way, and congratulations on being chosen 2011 Outstanding Organization!
Ross Richardson
Outstanding Board Member
Ross Richardson joined the United Way Board of Directors in 2008 representing St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital. He has been monumental in their employee campaign, raising over $20,000 for the past three consecutive years. Ross has served on the Grants Committee, Special Events Committee, and Executive Board. He served as Vice President in 2009, Board President in 2010, Past President in 2011, and will serve as Vice President in 2012. His enthusiasm and creativity shows throughout the year. He graciously gives of his time and talents. Ross also donates unique and fun auction items for the fundraising events. We are blessed to have such an outgoing and generous person such as Ross on our board. Ross received this award in 2009, and continually shines in all that he does. Congratulations Ross on being chosen 2011 Outstanding Board Member!