Gov. Heineman Presents Points of Light Volunteer Awards
(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman today presented the Governor’s Points of Light Awards during a proclamation ceremony in the Warner Chamber at the State Capitol. The awards are presented quarterly in recognition of volunteers who give their time, talent and energy to help Nebraskans build stronger communities.
“I’m pleased to recognize these volunteers for their shining example 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. I congratulate each of the recipients and hope they will keep up the good work.”
In the youth category, Alison Gottsch and Tim Sanderson of Chambers were recognized for organizing and promoting the Cruisin for the Cure event to increase cancer awareness in north-central Nebraska and raise funds for the American Cancer Society. They arranged for the event to be broadcast live by a local radio station. They ordered T-shirts, “4 the fight” bracelets and cancer awareness magnets to sell at the event, and organized a raffle, games and concessions that raised a total of $600 for the American Cancer Society.
In the adult category, Carol Olson of Dorchester was honored for her vision and leadership on many community improvement projects as the City Park Renovation and Community Beautification Project, as well as the Crete Cares and Blue River Gifts programs. She played an important role in starting the Dorchester Community Foundation, and helped secure new equipment for a school playground. Olson was also recognized for her work with the Dorchester Zoning Board and leadership in community clean-up efforts.
In the group category, the Governor’s Points of Light Award winner is Project Welcome of Omaha. Creighton University Professor Joan Mueller founded Project Welcome, a community organization that responds to the needs of children in Omaha’s Sudanese refugee community. Since 2002, the project has provided assistance with health and social services, summer school, tutoring, and after-school programming for Sudanese children. Project Welcome is funded through donations and small grants, and has raised more than $70,000 to help cover the costs of transportation to the U.S. for Sudanese refugees.
Each quarter, 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, go to the Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission Web site at http://www.nol.org/home/NVSC, or call (402) 471-6225 or (800) 291-8911 for more 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.
