CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- U.S. Army Garrison Benelux volunteers were honored April 17 during the annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony held in Chièvres, Belgium. This year, 17 volunteers, two families and three organizations, including American Forces Network Benelux, Grandma's Attic and Family Readiness Group 39th Signal Battalion, were nominated for these awards.
Volunteers spend time serving the community, they take part in child and youth events, family readiness groups, community recreation events and many more, said Wallace Turner, the master of ceremony. Volunteers make a difference because "they always find time to support something that they believe in," he added.
Army Col. Kurt Connell, USAG Benelux commander, recognized volunteers' contributions. "At the end of the day, volunteers not only do work that need to be done, but they build connections and relationships throughout the community," he said. The winners of the 2018 Volunteers of the Year are divided into seven categories. There will be ceremonies, in Brussels on May 4 and in Schinnen on May 18.
THIS YEAR'S AWARD RECEIPIENTS INCLUDED:
Xavier Armbruster, Youth Volunteer of the Year
Xavier Armbruster did great work as a library volunteer. He also worked at the kennel on Chièvres Air Base. "I don't do it for an award," he said. "I like to learn new skills."
Army Master Sgt. Delonica Boyce, Volunteer Service Member of the Year
She volunteered at the Shape Gym, the Boy Scouts, the Child, Youth and School Services (CYS), and more. She has over 600 hours of volunteer service. "I just do it, because I like it and it helps others," she said.
Lauren and Breck Brewer, Volunteer Family of the Year
The Brewer family volunteers in many community events, such as youth soccer and in the classroom. Most of what they do involves helping youths. "Our kids are very active. They are part of sports and theater, scouts and school. We are always there with them for the most part, and when we are there we just tend to help out where we can," said Army Maj. Breck Brewer.
Grandma's Attic, Volunteer Organization of the Year
Grandma's Attic heavily assisted with quality of life events in the community. "We support the community financially," they said. The organization has contributed to the success of the garrison/NATO offering discount prices for community members entering or leaving the Benelux. They also offered scholarships for students and sponsored events in the community.
Amber Lamb, ACS Volunteer of the Year
Amber Lamb contributed to the success of Army Community Service and to the improvement of the quality of life for customers. "I volunteered with the relocation program with host nation orientation, because I found them super helpful when I moved here," she said.
Joseph Schram, Retiree Volunteer of the Year
Joseph Schram worked as a volunteer at the American Legion for a very long time. He takes part in every community event and has over 1,000 hours of volunteering. Joseph Schram was not present at the ceremony.
Yolanda Terry, Overall Volunteer of the Year
Yolanda Terry contributed over 500 hours of volunteering. She does a lot for the customers and volunteers. With her team, she is a real role model.
For more information about volunteer opportunities, contact Army Community Service at DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)6532-6824 or visit https://chievres.armymwr.com/programs/acs.
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