JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. -- Andrea Terialles had to be convinced to log her and her family's many volunteer hours onto the Volunteer Management Information System, the tool used by volunteers across installations worldwide.
"That's not why we do the service," Andrea said.
What finally convinced her was the need for the Army to have a record. The hours served by volunteers often lead to decisions about programs, such as funding or the need for paid staff.
Prior to the annual Volunteer of the Year Luncheon April 26, she didn't expect to win, in fact, she admitted that she'd be modestly embarrassed.
But the family indeed received the Family Volunteer of the Year award. Upon winning Andrea teared up a bit with pride.
"I'm very proud of the kids," she said. "We've been able to spend a lot of these hours volunteering together."
Andrea and her family, Sgt. Albert Terialles of 47th Combat Support Hospital, Jacob Rehm, John Rehm, Michaela Rehm and Albert Terialles Jr., all volunteer in the Joint Base Lewis-McChord community. They spend their time with the Military Children's Ministry, vacation bible school, Cub Scouts, their parent teacher association and family readiness group, just to name a few. For them volunteering has always been a part of their life, and something they have grown to enjoy.
"I like the smile on somebody's face," Jacob, 22, said, who often helps out neighbors in his community.
Michaela Rehm was also honored at the luncheon as the JBLM Youth Volunteer of the Year. The 18-year-old volunteers with her family, and also with The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, a service-oriented organization originally founded for daughters of Masonic Lodge members.
"It's very humbling and cool to be around other volunteers," Michaela said.
The Lakes High School senior was also recently awarded the Comcast Leaders and Achievers scholarship for her service and academic success. She was excited to win the scholarship, one of many she has been nominated for and applied to, and hopes to use the financial help to pay for college. She has yet to decide where to go but is leaning toward Baylor University to study neuroscience.
"I am really interested in how the brain works," Michaela said.
Her entire family is proud of her, including 9-year-old Albert, Jr.
"She is determined to do everything she wants to get done," he said. "She's a giving, open person. I know she will succeed."
Jacob added, "I am really proud of her."
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