Source: The News-Enterprise
Eight Hardin Memorial Hospital auxiliary volunteers were presented Monday with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for their dedication and service to the community.
The award, signed by President Donald Trump, is for those who contribute more than 4,000 hours of service in their lifetime.
In total, the eight volunteers have served for 129 years and have volunteered 62,485 hours.
Making up about 18,000 of those hours was award recipient Myrtle Garland, who has volunteered with HMH since 2004.
Garland serves at an information desk.
“I give people directions to find the room that their loved one is in,” she said. “Whatever problems they have, I try to assist them.”
Garland said she enjoys meeting visitors and providing them assistance.
Joining Garland in receiving the recognition were Dolores Pfeiffer, Ruth Ellen Stanley, Gabby Gentry, Franklin Janes, Margaret Carr, Jeanette Jones and Joan Palmer.
“Presidential recognition sets you apart from your peers,” said Crystal Kelley, Kentucky program director for the Corporation for National and Community Service.
The awards were given during an auxiliary meeting.
“It is a tremendous honor,” Kelley said of the award. “Even though you may not seek recognition, your example can deliver a powerful message that encourages others to take action.”
Along with the presidential recognition, recipients also received a personalized certificate and an official pin.
The recognition said the volunteers’ hours have “ensured the continuation of America’s unparalleled commitment to improving the lives of others.”
The award read that the volunteers have served as a “model of the American spirit.”
Garland said she was excited for the presidential recognition.
“He’s my president,” she said, grinning.
Kelley said her grandmother once told her to be the light in what could be a dark day for someone else. That’s what these volunteers have done, she said.
“Those of you honored here today, you have provided years of light to communities,” Kelley said. “… We thank you most sincerely for your dedication to serving your communities and your country.”
