Twelve Roaring Fork Valley residents were honored on Wednesday by the Pitkin County commissioners for their volunteer work in the community.
They were nominated by citizens to receive the “Pitkin County Cares Volunteer Service Awards.” Now in its 12th year, the goal of the county’s volunteer award program is to honor individuals and groups for their service, leadership and civic involvement.
There are 10 award categories including: “Greg Mace Award” in memory of the late, lifelong volunteer Greg Mace; “Children and Youth,” “Seniors,” “Health,” “Community Pride,” “Education,” “Good Samaritan,” “Environment,” “Rising Stars” and “Exceptional One-time Events.”
The 2012 honorees:
• Greg Mace Award: Dorothea Farris
For her life-long dedication to community service. Farris spent over 30 years in elected office as an Aspen School Board member and Pitkin County commissioner. In recent years, her many volunteer pursuits involve preserving the environment as a member of the Colorado Wildlife Commission, West Elk Scenic Byway commission and Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association, to name a few.
• Children/Youth Award: Beth Meager
For going above and beyond the call of duty as a Big Buddy in the Aspen Buddy Program. For over five years, Meager has helped her little buddy Aeelyn get involved in local activities, including the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club, which she otherwise may not have had exposure to. She also has been an academic advocate helping Aeelyn with school projects, homework, attending her plays and being Aeelyn’s biggest cheerleader.
• Seniors Award: Aspen Elks Lodge #224
For treating valley senior citizens to meals and gifts during celebrations five times a year. The Elks serves more than 100 seniors at Wintersköl, Easter, Independence Day, Christmas and at the annual summer picnic. They also treat seniors to front row seats to the Fourth of July Parade, which makes a big difference in the lives of older adults who would otherwise not be able to enjoy the festivities because of health and mobility issues.
• Health Award: Marc Lipman
For volunteering for the Shining Stars and Sunshine Kids foundations for over a decade. Lipman attends every event to benefit children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. He does everything from serve meals, take kids on hikes and help raise money for the organizations.
• Community Pride Award: Bobby Mason
For his longtime commitment to community fundraisers for locals with illness or the need for life-changing surgery. Mason is a cheerleader for Aspen using his music to inspire, entertain and raise money for those in need.
• Education Award: Amy and Barry Gordon
For their work as English tutors for the English in Action program. The Gordons tutor adult immigrants one-on-one, helping their students become competent English speakers and better assimilate into the community.
• Good Samaritan Award: Peggy Johnston
For her assistance to children and families in need. Johnston has provided financial support and has purchased necessities for struggling families to help relieve their burden. She also canvasses her friends to help her help these families.
• Environment Award: Gail Mason
For her volunteer work with Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers. Gail is a RFOV crew leader who has worked on many local trail projects including but not limited to: Smuggler Mountain, Lost Man Trail, Skyline Ridge and the Highline Trail.
• Rising Stars Award: Aubrey Wolfe
For her contribution to the Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers board. A senior at Glenwood Springs High School, Wolfe has devoted much time and energy to board meetings and several RFOV trail projects.
• Exceptional One-time Event: Alexandre Roy
For his essential role in helping the Forest Service remove the remains of dozens of cows who had become stranded in a cabin in Conundrum Creek last winter. In all, he has given 800 hours of volunteer time to the Forest Service.