CASEY GARRISON South Korea - More than 40 American Red Cross volunteers, staff and awardees gathered in the Casey Garrison Warrior's Club March 3 to attend a program praising and awarding volunteers proving themselves key to the success of American Red Cross programs for the past 12 months.
The program featured five key awards. Suk Harper was awarded Area I Volunteer of the Year, Ashley Murrell was awarded the Emergency Communication Casework award, Briana Guess earned the Military Hospital Outreach Program award, Kang, Chae Hui was given the Troop Medical Center award, and Lisa Gallela, Vivien Hutto, Marife Reidy, and Amy Jane Roller received the Fundraising award for raising more than $1,600 to provide a Christmas party for troops stationed at the Joint Security Area in Panmunjom.
Appreciation was given to Ken Limtiaco, Area I manager of the Army Air Force Exchange Service, Jessica Crowl manager of the Casey Garrison commissary of Defense Commissary Agency, Area I garrison Public Affairs, and Korean Red Cross of Dongducheon.
"Volunteering is one of those activities for which no one seems to have time," said Sabrina Jackson assistant station manager American Red Cross Yongsan and keynote speaker.
"The volunteers who have joined us today simply made time to do so. We are here this afternoon to celebrate the volunteer service of our American Red Cross Area I volunteers."
Volunteer recognition programs are a wonderful way to acknowledge the achievements of those who selflessly dedicate their time and abilities to the American Red Cross, Jackson explained. She went on to quote Henry Wadsworth Longfellow saying 'no man or woman is so poor as to have nothing to offer.'
"This is the real power of volunteering," Jackson said. "It is something anyone can do no matter their age, where they are from, how much they earn, or their religion or cultural background. Volunteering is a wonderful opportunity, which is open for all."
"For those who choose to volunteer, they gain confidence and acquire new skills. It is also an opportunity to meet new people and make new friendships. There is also the satisfaction that comes with achieving volunteer goals. Whatever the reason, there is a personal gain, a sense of ownership and commitment."
"For some, it is a means of giving back some of what they receive. For others, it is simply a feel good experience," she said. "For a few, it can help them identify their singular purpose in life."
"Whatever the reason, having a positive impact on the life of another can be an awesome experience."
Since working for the American Red Cross and being involved with the volunteer program, Jackson said she developed more respect for the individual and care for the well-being of others.
"I have learned not only the value of tolerance but the celebration of diversity," Jackson said.
"I have learned to listen to others, value their opinions, and to work together in cooperation toward a common goal. In short, I think I have become a better person working with volunteers. Above all, I have learned every person, regardless of their situation or circumstance has something to offer."
Volunteering is valuable on the individual level and important at the community level, she pointed out.
"Your contributions of 3,184 hours to the Casey Garrison Troop Medical Center, Tax Center, Finance Office, outreach programs like local orphanages, your relationship with the Korean Red Cross, assisted living organizations where you have visited, all have helped create a vibrant, energized and safe community."
She went on to say she realizes none of the volunteers do so for recognition or praise but important contributions of more than 3,000 hours, which is the equivalent of more than $64,000 to Area I on behalf of the American Red Cross, is recognized and praised.
"Without every single one of you volunteers the dream of dignity for all will be impossible," Jackson said.
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