The Lakeside River Park Conservancy hosted its Volunteer Appreciation Awards Breakfast last Saturday. It took place at the Lakeside Boll Weevil and was a full house with 84 volunteers attending.
Robin Rierdan, executive director of the River Park, said this is an annual event to thank all the volunteers for their tremendous amount of work. She said they logged in over 9,000 hours that would amount to over $217,000 if they were paid employees.
The Lakeside River Park Conservancy hosted its Volunteer Appreciation Awards Breakfast last Saturday. It took place at the Lakeside Boll Weevil and was a full house with 84 volunteers attending.
Robin Rierdan, executive director of the River Park, said this is an annual event to thank all the volunteers for their tremendous amount of work. She said they logged in over 9,000 hours that would amount to over $217,000 if they were paid employees.
Rierdan added that she loves working with the volunteers because they bring energy, enthusiasm and problem solving which helps the Conservancy in many ways.
Cindy Collins, volunteer coordinator, keeps busy putting these hard working folks to work. There were 10 volunteers who received special recognition for their service.
Award winners were: Susanne Davis, named Volunteer of The Year for the “Joan Burnett Memorial Inspirational Award”. Named after founding volunteer, Joan Burnett, who passed away in 2005.
Other award recipients were: Andrea Hunter for Prettiest Artwork, helping to launch an on-line shopping site. Scarlett Spencer, for Most Balls Award, for her work as a Riverbed Hiker and cleanup crew. Gary Ruyle, for his work removing invasive plants since 2005. Cheryl Chellius, for Ambassador and Outreach and organized mailings.
Bill Ferreria received the New Volunteer of the Year award for his architectural work on the Science Field Station.
Jim and Pamela Ourand for Safety and Tech Support and their leadership rolls in setting up River Park events. Anne Marie Hake- for her work as program ambassador, recruiting and training equestrian volunteers. Jesus Robles (Chuy), for Security Awareness, and for his devotion to the Gate Keepers Program, closing the gates at night.
A Certificate of Merit from Supervisor, Dianne Jacob’s office, was given to each award winner. Photographer, Pete Nelson’s colorful photo of the River Park was reproduced on a tile and was given to each award winner as well. Collins said the owner of Boll Weevil, Victor Tongco, opened his business and brought in his staff early just for the River Park’s event. She added that the Burnette Family Trust, a charitable foundation, was the main sponsor of the event.
If you would like to become a volunteer at the Lakeside River Park Conservancy please call 443-4770 for information.
