The Aroostook County Branch of the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross recently honored over 35 local Red Cross volunteers for their training and service to the people of Aroostook County from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009.
Staff photo/Scott Mitchell Johnson
Penny Kern, right, of Presque Isle, was recently recognized as the 2008-2009 American Red Cross Volunteer of the Year in Aroostook County. Kern donated over 300 hours of her time by serving as a client caseworker for many family house fires, by using her certified instructor training skills in teaching no cost disaster courses from Fort Kent to Island Falls, by serving as an Advisory Council member supporting several committees, and a multitude of other services. Presenting Kern with her award is Joyce Knorr, Aroostook County Branch manager for the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross. Also being recognized were Judy Winchester, of Wallagrass, and Alice Beaulieu, of Island Falls, who each received Outstanding Leadership Awards.
These volunteers gave tirelessly of themselves to serve the emergency needs of Aroostook County friends and neighbors. Providing more than 1,500 volunteer service hours, they received specialized disaster training and participated in exercises that enabled their swift response to 38 emergencies such as family house fires or floods, and assisted in 21 Armed Force Emergency Services communication calls.
Within two hours of being contacted, Red Cross volunteer caseworkers respond to a crisis by providing immediate shelter, food, clothing, infant supplies, medication replacement, medical equipment, mental health support and provide information on resources to plan for recovery.
Special recognition this year went to three individuals who extended themselves above the call of duty:
• Penny Kern, of Presque Isle, was recognized as the 2008-2009 American Red Cross Volunteer of the Year in Aroostook County. Kern donated over 300 hours of her time by serving as a client caseworker for many family house fires (several were multi-units), by using her certified instructor training skills in teaching no cost disaster courses from Fort Kent to Island Falls, by serving as an Advisory Council member supporting several committees, and a multitude of other services. Kern has been readily available, even by phone when she is out of the area to mentor, counsel, give advice, or provide information whenever needed.
• Judy Winchester, of Wallagrass, received an Outstanding Leadership Award. Winchester donated over 150 hours this past year in providing client casework services – especially late at night and in inclement weather to ensure clients’ needs were met. In addition to her service hours, Winchester took numerous disaster training courses and serves as an Aroostook County Advisory Council member for the St. John Valley. She is commended for the numerous miles driven to the branch office in Caribou to provide necessary assistance to committees and fund-raisers.
• Alice Beaulieu, of Island Falls, also received an Outstanding Leadership Award. Beaulieu donated over 75 hours for training and hosting meetings in the southern Aroostook area. She, too, has provided client casework services to several challenging disaster events during inclement weather and late night calls. She is constantly ready to serve and is always willing to go that extra mile when called upon.
“The work of the Red Cross would not be successful if it were not for the dedication and support of these wonderful volunteers,” said Joyce Knorr, Aroostook County Branch manager for the Pine Tree Chapter. “Disaster volunteers are always needed and we can accommodate almost anyone’s schedule. The experience is rewarding. Every volunteer receives free Red Cross training – we use each individual’s strengths and experiences to fit the need of services.”
The Red Cross depends on its volunteers. Volunteers make up 97 percent of the Chapter’s people and work directly with community residents, serve on the Chapter’s board of directors, Advisory Council and committees, and provide behind-the-scenes support.
For more information about becoming a Red Cross volunteer, please call the Aroostook County Branch office in Caribou at 493-4620 or e-mail knorrj@pinetree.redcross.org. All that is required is commitment to serve, a simple application, and a brief background check.
The Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross has served the people of Aroostook County and the counties of eastern and northern Maine for 100 years. With offices in Caribou, Bangor, Ellsworth and Rockland, the Chapter provides emergency response and preparation services, Armed Forces Emergency Services, and skills training that helps save lives.
