Selfless service took center stage when Fort Benning community members gathered Monday to recognize the installation's outstanding volunteers.
During the U.S. Army Infantry Center Volunteer Awards Ceremony and Reception at the Benning Conference Center, more than 20 individuals and organizations received awards for their contributions.
To be eligible for an award, volunteers must contribute at least 500 hours of their time per year, or 300 hours for youth volunteers, and must be nominated by someone in an organization in which they volunteer. A panel of Fort Benning community members chooses the awardees based on the impact they have had on the community.
"They've given something more precious than money - they have donated their time," said MG Michael Barbero, commanding general of Fort Benning. "It's inspiring to see Americans are still volunteering to do the heavy lifting with little recognition or compensation. It speaks volumes about our Fort Benning community."
Starla DeSaussure, coordinator of the Army Volunteer Corps, presented Barbero with a symbolic check for $1.82 million, the estimated amount of money volunteers saved Fort Benning by contributing their time and services.
"None of your time or talent is taken lightly," she said. "I want to say 'Thank you,' from the bottom of my heart."
Jenifer Young, who received an award for her work as president of Fort Benning's chapter of Protestant Women of the Chapel, said she works to support young Army spouses.
"I have experience I can offer them," she said. "It helps to have an encouraging ear to listen, and a pat on the back sometimes, especially during deployments."
Tanya Williams, a volunteer with Girl Scouts, the Family Readiness Group for the 2nd Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment, and treasurer of Dexter Elementary School's PTO, received an award her work. Williams said she plans to continue volunteering.
"I want to set an example for my kids," she said. "There are so many things that wouldn't get done if volunteers didn't do them."
DeSaussure encouraged community members to volunteer.
"There are a lot of programs - Child, Youth and School Services sports division, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Army Family Team Building - that could not function without volunteers," she said. "You can come out and make a difference."
For more information on volunteering, call AVC at 706-545-3016 or visit www.myarmylifetoo.com.
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