Gov. Heineman Honors Points of Light Volunteers

(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman applauds the final group of volunteers chosen to receive Points of Light awards for their service in 2004. The awards are presented quarterly in recognition of volunteers who give their time, talent and energy to help Nebraskans build stronger communities.

“I’m very pleased to recognize these volunteers for their shining examples of selflessness,” Gov. Heineman said. “Nebraskans are known for giving of themselves and that quality is part of what makes our state such a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family. I congratulate each of the recipients and encourage them to keep up the good work.”

In the youth category, the Governor’s Points of Light Award recipient is Jessica Helgren of Neligh. Helgren organized a team to complete the scraping and painting of the community grandstand, which earned her a Girl Scout Gold Award. She has also helped to write a several successful grant proposals. One project led to the purchase of a milk machine for Neligh Oakdale School in an effort to promote a healthy lifestyle among students. A second proposal provided funding for a health fair where 40 booths provided health information to more than 640 attendees.

In the adult category, the Governor’s Points of Light Award winner is Michelle Weimer of Gering. In 2000, Weimer received training as a car seat safety technician in response to a need she saw for communities to get involved in inspecting car seats and educating caregivers to help keep children safe. Weimer coordinated a group of volunteers to form a SAFE KIDS Chapter in the Scottsbluff-Gering area and has worked diligently to make it a success. She recruited more than a dozen community groups to sponsor safety events, secured funding to replace defective car-seats, and coordinates two child safety seat check-up events each year.

In the group category, the Governor’s Points of Light Award winner is Good Beginnings in Franklin County. Good Beginnings believes that healthy development of all individuals and families is essential for community growth and prosperity. An estimated 50 collaborating agencies and individuals provide community outreach through programs such as TeamMates, which emphasizes building character and helps youth to set goals. Good Beginnings also offers All Stars, a prevention program helping youth to make good choices. Additionally, this group organizes an annual county-wide health fair aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle, nutrition programs, and greater awareness of available health services.

Commissioners from the Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission review award nominations and make final recommendations to the Governor. The awards are sponsored by Woodmen of the World.

To nominate individuals and groups who have made a difference through volunteerism for a Governor’s Points of Light Award, please visit http://www.nol.org/home/NVSC to obtain a Nomination form and instructions or contact 402-471-6225 or (800) 291-8911 to request information.

The Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission supports the efforts of all Nebraskans who are united in strengthening their communities, state and nation through volunteer and community service.

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