Damaris Delgado-Vega

Damaris Delgado-Vega is dedicated to serving youth and improving young people’s educational experiences. She has been Coordinator of Interact Club Caribe since 2005. Damaris has helped teenage Interactors get involved in community service for the first time. Damaris has supported Interactors in serving the elderly, youth, orphans and the environment in projects where they learn by being exposed to other people’s economic, social or cultural reality. Besides local service, Interactors have also done service internationally. They have impacted education by sending books to Botswana and Belize, and raising money to build a classroom in Port-Au-Pax Haiti. Interactors also contributed to the Ashley Kaimowitz fund, to help child rape victims in South Africa. These experiences introduced Interactors to people that otherwise they would have never known.

Under Damaris’ advice Interact members have received the President’s Volunteer Service Award, Youth Service America Bulletin’s Everyday Hero and membership in the National Society of High School Scholars. The Club was recognized with the Rotary’s International World Interact Week Celebration Award and by the Nicodemus Ecologist’s Initiative for their environmental work cleaning up beaches.

All Interactors that finished high school were admitted to college. Damaris was actively involved helping them prepare well-rounded applications. She has helped them secure scholarships to colleges in the continental U. S. and Puerto Rico. One Interactor won the AXA scholarship for Puerto Rico. Damaris has shown Interactors that regardless of financial need, if you work hard, you can go to college.

Besides Interact, Damaris works with elementary school kids, Damaris obtained a Rotary Grant to fund an after-school program for “Amalia H. Mangual”, a rural elementary school. The grant provided sports equipment. Damaris arranged for donations of computers from the local U. S. District Court which enabled the school to get the local Department of Education to install a computer lab, since the school had demonstrated its ability to generate matching resources. Damaris also arranged a schedule for Rotarians and Interactors to volunteer at the school.

Damaris created “Classroom in the Garden.” This program was implemented with Mangual’s third grade science class. The children grew vegetable and flower gardens in the school. The gardening process is used to teach tem Arithmetic, Science, nutrition, and values. When the students harvested their vegetables they shared vegetables with parents and teachers. The program has been such a success that it will expand to fourth and fifth graders for next school year.

Damaris is best remembered by Rotarians for helping a young Costa Rican boy – Romario Rojas, to get prosthetic legs. Benny Garcia, a member of our Rotary Club learned about Romario during a Costa Rican trip. Benny brought the ideas and Damaris seized it and coordinated Romario’s trip to Puerto Rico, arranged with Garcia to provide therapy, fitting services and prosthetic legs, while the San Jose Rotary Club paid for the boy’s plane tickets. Damaris hosted Romario while he received his prosthetic legs from Garcia. For her long-term commitment to help youngsters Damaris will always be recognized as a role model.

Michelle Couture

Michelle Couture, a 9th Grader at Tamanend Middle School in Warrington, PA, has a serious dedication and devotion to helping find a cure for cancer. Two years ago, she created a team and begun to develop and implement fundraising activities to benefit the American Cancer Society, culminating in their “Relay for Life” event. She was touched by family members who passed away from the disease and decided she had to “do something now” so that eventually other people can benefit once a cure is found.

Michelle wrote letters inviting girls to join her team. She held several teambuilding “craft sessions” to create posters for car washes, decorate bears to be raffled off, create purple “cancer awareness” pins for sale and make “Relay” bags etc. She also engaged in many activities over the last two years, including writing letters requesting sponsorship donations, shopping for boxes of candy that were distributed to each gem member for fundraising, gathering teddy bears and craft supplies to adorn them to be raffled off, working tables at school dances/events to sell various things, such as candy, pins, school spirit items and raffle bags, organizing, publicizing and volunteering at car washes and coordinating a Premier Designs jewelry sale.

Michelle has led her team to raise over $2,000 in 2006 and over $2,200 in 2007. Her actions and commitment to making a difference is demonstrated through her willingness to reach out to help those affected by cancer. She selflessly devotes many hours to making a difference in her community, and to motivating others to do the same. She has touched the lives of many people with her caring concern, call to action, and leadership. By raising awareness of this disease and of the ongoing need for funds to develop a cure, Michelle has contributed to making a difference for her generation. She called her team “Starburst” in 2006, and changed the name to “All-Stars” in 2007 because she said they are “all stars working together to shine and make a brighter future for everyone.”

This is one example of how Michelle Couture is dedicated to making a change through leadership and service. She has provided over 150 hours of service over the last two years, serving such organizations as The American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund, UNICEF, VOSH, and Neshaminy Manor (Elder Care Facility). She also serves as captain of the TMS Varsity Cheerleading Squad, and maintains an academic GPA of 4.0. Michelle dedicates herself to serving her school, her community and her world.

Stephanie Van Dyke

The Engeye Health Clinic in Uganda is run by a small group of Americans and Ugandans, working to improve the living conditions and reduce the unnecessary suffering in rural Africa through education and health care. The entire clinic and two volunteer houses were constructed during the summer of 2006 at an estimated cost of $50,000. All of the funds came from the volunteer group’s personal monies and whatever donations it could collect. The Engeye Health Clinic’s founder, Stephanie Van Dyke, personally contributed the money that was left for her by her late grandfather to build the clinic.

Van Dyke and John Kalule worked together to establish the Engeye Health Clinic. In 2000, Stephanie spent time volunteering in Katooke Village in rural Uganda. There she witnessed the urgent need for the most basic medical care, inspiring her to pursue a career in medicine with the ultimate goal of building and running self-sustaining clinics in Uganda. During her visit, Stephanie met John, a native Ugandan for Ddegeya Village, who helped her adjust to the challenge posed by life in rural Africa. The word Engeye means “white monkey” in Ugandan and is John’s family clan name. The official Mission Statement of the Engeye Health Clinic is “To improve living conditions and reduce unnecessary suffering in rural Africa through education and compassionate health care.”

Spring 2007 was the first medical mission since the initial construction of the clinic. A small group of second year and fourth year medical students from Albany Medical College were joined by two physicians and a nurse to Ddegeya Village where they provided medical care to the villagers. Two additional second year medical students attended to head patient education, Lalithapriya Jayakumar and Julie Huynh. One of the doctors, Dr. Paeglow of Albany Medical College, was profiled in People magazine in 2006 for his charity work and community involvement.

During the spring 2007 visit, the medical volunteers conducted needs assessment studies within the village in order to better understand and serve them in the future. The project was an amazing success, and more than 750 patients were treated over eight days. The group was surprised with how well they were received by the locals and how many people they were able to treat or help transport to local trauma centers. The group discovered that they needed to bring more tropical medicine books to refer to in future visits, as Robbins and Harrison’s may not be specific enough for some of the infectious diseases in Uganda.

The spring 2007 visit marked the beginning of a sustainable healthcare system for the villagers and the next medical mission is scheduled for November 2007. In the meantime, local nurses and physicians will be available to help the people and provide them with necessary treatment.

Stephanie Davis

Stephanie Davis has been a prompt and courteous volunteer for more than two years. During this time Ms. Davis has been serving our Bridgeport students as a volunteer in the after school program at Cesar Batalla School. Ms. Davis possesses a warm presence that children, as well as adults, are drawn to. The children enjoy very much working with Ms. Davis and they feel very comfortable to come to her for help when needed.

Ms. Davis is always aware of the student’s personal and academic needs. She has taken upon herself to raise funds for out Lighthouse After School Program. Last year she collected money clothing amongst friends and relatives to donate to our children. For her birthday celebration, Ms. Davis had her family and friends paint a beautiful mural which she donated to our school. Along with her family support she has really taken this school under her wings, for which we are very fortunate and thankful.

Ms. Davis is an excellent role model and an example to follow. She exemplifies the true giving spirit and an example for our youth to emulate. It is a pleasure to have Stephanie working with the Lighthouse After School Program. Her energy, positivism and enthusiasm are contagious.

Laurie Larson

For over twenty years Laurie Larson has devoted her life to benefit children. On any given day, she is fully immersed in a vast array of school related projects. Her criterion for involvement is easy, if it entails children or family needs, count her in from beginning to end. A few examples of this fireball’s unlimited energy include serving as a teacher volunteer, PTA board member, booster club member, softball coach, school board election chair, coffee cart partner/volunteer, events and fundraising coordinator.

Laurie’s “can do” attitude is infectious! When other volunteers were hesitant about tackling yet another project, Laurie motivated the group to move forward. She achieved success by making the volunteers feel needed and more importantly reminding everyone that the children, school staff and families looked forward to every endeavor they made happen.

Apples for the teachers first day, parent nights, field trips, computer share program, dinner for teacher conferences and family friendly carnivals are a few of the projects Laure has helped guide. A noteworthy accomplishment was the annual Hellgate Elementary PTA gift wrap fundraiser. As chairperson, tens of thousands of dollars were raised under her direction. These funds allowed students to participate annually in numerous cultural art events. Student life was enriched by the Artists in Residence Program, carving classes, musical and dance performances, and hands on art or craft activities, physical education activities, and bonus field trips to special local performances. Hellgate 30-5 principal Whitehead says, “Laurie is one of the most phenomenal parents I have seen in over 36 years of education. Laurie definitely exemplifies a parent who is committed to children and education. She is the Best of the Best!”

“One of the things I admire about her is that she is here to make it better for every child, not just her own,” said Candy Johnson, K-2 Principal. She told us of other fond memories when she was music teacher. Laurie spent an entire Sunday afternoon helping set up a stage for an upcoming performance. Also, Laurie called members of a phone tree who responded immediately when Grant Creek flooded. Parents arrived in full force, filling sand bags from 9pm – 4am saving the school buildings from additional flooding.

The Steamin’ Eagle, Big Sky’s non-profit coffee cart, was developed and seed money provided by Laurie and three other volunteers. The coffee cart serves as an innovative avenue for engaging parental participation and support for the school. It provides parents a reason to come to school; see their children’s friends; meet teachers; and become comfortable with their daily routine. Principal Johnson states, “The countless number of hours she spends supporting students is reflected in improved academic programs, stronger feeling of school spirit and community, and strengthened lives of so many of our students.” The coffee cart has been huge success for eleven years with 75 parent volunteers each year for six hours every day. Laurie works tireless training the newest volunteers; doing the scheduling, and working shifts that can’t be covered.

Most recently Laurie financially guaranteed and chaperoned two buses for students, providing an opportunity to support their school at a state function in Billings.

Without question, Laurie passion and dedication to the children of Missoula is exemplary. She fully embodies the spirit of the Lyle Health Award. Laurie leads by example, inspiring volunteerism which enhances parent, teacher and family involvement; expands educational, cultural and sporting opportunities; and increases school support year after year.

Sonya Troxel

Sonya Troxel is a registered dental hygienist working in to office of Dewaine Cales, D.D.S. In January 2006, the practice had no preventative program in the dental department for children. So she was invited to create one.

She helped to design the criteria for the program, which would serve children ages 6-14. The thought with this age group was to catch 6 year old and 12 year old molars before they got decay and could still be sealed. She suggested that the practice do cleanings, x-ray exams, sealants and fluoride treatments for children between the ages of 6-14, who are in the income guidelines of free and reduced lunches.

Sonya recruited hygienists through the Southwest Missouri Hygiene Association. She enlisted 9 hygienists as volunteers for this program, for which she also continues to volunteer. Sonya applied for and received the Rosie Wall Spirit Award of $3,000.00 for the program.

Since its beginnings, a little over a year ago, The Children’s Preventive Clinic has seen 210 patients, placed 327 sealants, and screened 458 middle school students at a value of service to these children of $34,166. They have raised $27,088 in grants and donations.

Sonya Troxel continues to volunteer at the Community Clinic of Joplin in the Children’s Preventative Program. The clinic salutes Sonya for her ongoing volunteer efforts, because if had it not been for her, the program may have never gotten off the ground.

Caroline Mayer

Caroline Mayer has been volunteering for several agencies in Missoula. She makes the time to give back to others who are in need.

Caroline serves with Meals on Wheels, the Rotary Club, the YMCA and the Messiah Lutheran Church. She is a dedicated Meals on Wheels volunteer, and her clients are happy to see her. Caroline provides not just a nutritious meal, but also a listening ear and companionship to residents who are sometimes forgotten by family and friends.

Annually, Caroline works with the YMCA’s scholarship campaign. This group plans ways to raise money to ensure that all people are able to participate in the YMCA’s many character and self-esteem developing programs. Caroline has also been a volunteer spokesperson for the YMCA, and has spent time engaging in the lives of many of the staff at the center.

Caroline takes time to visit with everyone she meets. She takes the time to listen and is able to share her own stories and experiences to offer counsel to others.

Kenneth Quick

Delivery meal programs are generally designed to help those who are homebound, ill and frail to periodically get a nutritious meal that is ready or near-ready to eat. Collective meal programs are also designed to assist seniors to obtain a nutritious meal, but they are not reserved for those who have mobility or health problems. The meal programs have many benefits other than nutrition, including getting out, socializing and even having participants volunteer their own time. Kenneth Quick is an individual who personifies the Meals on Wheels meal delivery program in Missoula. He is concerned about his community members who are not able to have nutritious meals so he works to ensure he can assist as many of them as possible. He is the messenger, but he is also seen as a friend.

Ken is always willing to drive, even at a moment’s notice. He has trained numerous new drivers and is friendly, caring, compassionate and professional. Ken’s clients are always happy to see him because he takes the time to visit with them and listen to them. He makes it a priority to hear his client’s stories and concerns and is distracted or concerned about his next delivery. Ken treats each of his clients as if they are his only clients.

Ken has been driving for the Missoula Meals on Wheels program for the past four years and is lauded as one of the group’s most dedicated volunteers. In addition to his work with Meals on Wheels, Ken also donates his time with the St. Pat’s Mending Hearts Club, where he visits with patients that are having heart surgery.

In his spare time, Ken is an avid bowler. When he is not volunteering, he is a faithful mall walker who enjoys a cup of coffee and making new friends. Ken has a wonderful sense of humor that endears him to all who know him. Because of his dedication and commitment to service, the Missoula Meals on Wheels nominated Ken as their Senior of the Year.

Jacque Isome

Jacque Isome is a valuable asset to many of the residents in the senior community and takes on many tasks to help others live life to the fullest. Jacque believes in giving back and though she has had some trials in her life, she still makes the time to help others in her community.

Jacque is known to most residents of the River Ridge Apartment community. She should have her own business because she works very hard; however, as a volunteer, she operates an unofficial shuttle service. Jacque takes the time to carry her community members on necessary errands. You may find them at the grocery store, doctor’s appointments or the pharmacy. This service is essential to the River Ridge community so they can take care of their daily needs.

Jacque also serves at the hospital. She has been volunteering there for the past 17 years as an advocate for people who are about to undergo surgery. Jacque listens to patients’ concerns and fears. She has been a tremendous help to the staff at the hospital and because of Jacque’s volunteer time, they are able to work more effectively.

Jacque lends a hand whenever she can. She goes out of her way to provide needs in the community to seniors who are sometimes overlooked by others. Whenever she has the time or resources, Jacque is willing to share them to help someone else.

Judson N. Moore

Judson N. “Jud” Moore is a fixture at Hellgate High School. He has a great spirit and has many contributions as a volunteer to the school. Jud has a great rapport with the students and uses his skills to benefit teachers, students and staff.

Jud has donated his time and resources to the Art Department and Library. On numerous occasions he has contributed important books to the library and Art Department. He volunteers his time to read senior English and History papers for Ms. Renee Conner’s class. He also drops off important articles for review about current elections and ballot information. This information has proved valuable for Ms. Hixon’s students and Jud, who informs new voters the importance of the voting process.

He is a perfect gentleman and has a wealth of important stories of his mother fighting for the right to vote and growing up in the South. The information he shares with the students should be recorded in a book or documentary. He has lived history that children can only learn about through reading books.

Jud is special person to the staff and students of Hellgate High School. He takes the time to listen to students and he meets them “where they are.” The students respect him and learn important life lessons from him. Though he comes to assist with the educational process, Jud also shows the children how to be respectful, courteous and open-minded. He shows them that learning is a life-long process.