| Now, more than ever, people are looking for bright spots in their day, something to celebrate. April is Volunteer Appreciation month and the volunteers that spend their time at Sunrise are certainly something to celebrate. In 2019 we estimate that over 170 volunteers spent 2,850 hours on our campus – spending time with residents, pruning and preening the gardens, filling Easter eggs, organizing events and activities for the independent living residents and so much more. I just can’t imagine what Sunrise would be like without the volunteers. While we are not able to come together to celebrate our volunteers as we normally do this year, we are just as excited to announce to you the winners of this year’s Volunteer Awards. This year we took nominations from our residents and staff and had a big job of trying to pick just one winner per category. Each of the nominees, and in fact each of our volunteers, is to be commended for what they do to support Sunrise and the mission we have of Caring Deeply, Connecting Daily, Leading Boldly and Serving Faithfully. We are thankful for each one and know that Sunrise is a better place because of the love shared by each of you! Please join me in congratulating each of the award winners! ~Hallie Salmen, CEO |
Unsung Hero Award
Our 2019 Unsung Hero Award goes to Kyle Irvin, J.D., Senior Trust Counsel/Trust Officer with Security National Wealth Management. Kyle was chosen for this award for his willingness to help promote and support Sunrise using his best resources – his knowledge of law. Kyle has presented many educational sessions on the Sunrise campus related to estates, trusts and charitable giving and how those laws affect seniors, along with supporting Sunrise as it’s legal counsel. Kyle has served on the Sunrise Board of Directors and Finance committees and has also served on the Sunrise Retirement Community Foundation Board for more than five years. Kyle exemplifies the time, talent, and treasurers that every organization seeks out- accomplished and unassuming. Thank you, Kyle, for all you do for Sunrise!
Outstanding Fundraising Award
Our 2019 Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer Award goes to Bill Bradbury. Bill has served on the Siouxland Senior Open planning committee securing sponsorships and raffle items. He also is an event day organizer, golfer, and team promoter. Bill and his wife Donna are faithful attenders and supporters of the Jill Miller benefit concert. Bill serves on our Board of Directors and campus development committee. He has offered valuable insight on our capital campaign project. Successful events and Bill Bradbury go together-thanks Bill, we appreciate you being on our team!
Outstanding Community Volunteer Award
Our 2019 Outstanding Community Volunteer Award goes to Kim Haggerty. At Sunrise we know Tuesday is not for tacos, but for the morning of Kim’s faithful service! She does a great job keeping important records in order and up to date and as the job description say’s ‘any other duties as assigned’! Her mission possible attitude shows through her gifts of time and talent. Thank you, Kim, for all you do for Sunrise!
Outstanding Employee Award
Our 2019 Outstanding Employee Award goes to Doug Black, C.N.A.. Doug has a genuine passion for Sunrise and its mission. He has a love for every resident served here and a passion to teach new employees about what it means to serve. Doug reached out to Janet Dorale on her first day on the job to inform her of a project he had in mind… an employee giving campaign. With Doug’s help, our Sunrise team raised a near record – over $8,300! With these funds a new bladder scanner and 2 new vitals machines are purchased and appreciated by residents and employees. In addition to this amazing project Doug serves as a mentor for staff and assists whenever and wherever needed. Thanks, Doug, for being the kind and caring person you are!
Resident Volunteer Award
Our 2019 Resident Volunteer Award goes to Dolores Livengood. Dolores is treasurer of the Sunrise Hills Resident organization. She also lovingly serves at our summer cookouts and chili/cinnamon roll gatherings. I always know a great lunch is on the way when I see her in the care center building! She also keeps the Gerwulf Center looking good with up to date with décor. Dolores’s quiet kindness is appreciated by many here at Sunrise-thank you!
Outstanding Business Volunteer Award
It is said that actions speak louder than words. Liberty National Bank, recognized as our 2019 Outstanding Business Volunteer, is speaking very loudly through their actions! Kent Kolbe and his amazing staff prepared a Christmas giving tree on very short notice to benefit Sunrise residents. They collected dozens of gifts and shared holiday joy distributing packages and visiting with residents at our annual Christmas party. We also appreciate their sponsorship of our important fundraising events. Thank you, Liberty National Bank, for your partnership in our mission of Caring deeply, Connecting daily, Leading boldly, Serving faithfully.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF OUR 2019 VOLUNTEER AWARD WINNERS!!
Thank You for all your hard work and dedication to Sunrise!!