The “Gift of Life†recognized its volunteers with a Volunteer Appreciation
Party, April 19 at the Beaumont Country Club. There was entertainment
throughout the evening, with popular local talent Chuck Isles providing
music during a pre-dinner reception, and outstanding vocalist Valerie Simon
performing uplifting "Looking Through the Eyes of Love" and "The Prayer."
A highlight of the occasion was the Recognition and Appreication Ceremony,
where attendees celebrated the generosity and spirit of volunteerism, and
recipients included:
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Individual 2006 "Volunteer of the Year": Dora Nisby, "Gift of Life" treasurer,
for her longstanding service and willingness to contribute whenever and wherever
she is needed;
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"Volunteers of the Year," as a couple: Juanita and Louis Saldana for their
continuted dedication and service and reaching out to those who cannot help themselves.
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"Spirit of Volunteerism": Dr. James and Dolores Garcia, for providing Spanish-
English translation during prostate cancer screenings and health fairs and for their
desire to help other people;
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"Big Hearts," for more than 20 hours of service in 2006: This included all chairs and
coordinators for "Gift of Life" activities (Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Prostate Cancer
Awareness Month, Health Forum, Champagne & Ribs Fundraiser, Breast Cancer Art Exhibit,
Cookbook, and "Pink Ladies" committees);
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"Helping Hands": All medical professional volunteers, survivor volunteers and general
volunteers who are the "heartbeat" of the "Gift of Life"
The evening festivities included inspiring comments from "Gift of Life" Board President
Nell McCallum Morris and featured speaker, Dr. Jim Fuller, Calder Baptist
Church Senior Pastor.
Emcee Shawn Murdock, KBMT-Channel 12 anchor, acknowledged guests, volunteers, program board
members and officers, and local dignitaries in the audience, including Beaumont Mayor
Becky Ames, Beaumont City Councilman W. L. Pate, and Jefferson County Commissioner Bo Alfred.
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Check out Volunteer Appreciation Party Photos