Volunteers Recognized At Annual Red Cross Appreciation Luncheon

The St. Charles County Red Cross Service Center recently recognized their volunteers and community partners at their annual Volunteer and Community Partner Appreciation Luncheon.

The celebration took place at the Stegton Regency Banquet Center in St. Charles. The event took place Friday, March 25, 2011 and honored volunteers and partners within the St. Charles County community. 

The festivities at the luncheon included a presentation of the colors by the VFW Color Guard. The VFW Post 2866 Color Guard presented in full uniform with a flag and weapons solute. Guests of the luncheon were also treated to several songs by Lindenwood University's Voices Only Choir. The vocalists performed a capella and sang patriotic and inspirational songs, including leading the affair off by singing The National Anthem.

While the annual event served to honor all Red Cross volunteers and partners, awards were given out to recognize outstanding volunteers and community partners.

Some notable awards were given at the event, including an award given to St. Peters Mayor Len Pagano, who accepted an award for Outstanding Community Partner on behalf of the city of St. Peters.  Ward 3 Alderman candidate Terri Violet was awarded Volunteer of the Year, for her work with the Red Cross. Violet serves as the Marketing/Communication Liaison for the organization. This is not the first time she has been recognized for her service. The Red Cross awarded Violet with the Outstanding New Volunteer of the Year Award in 2009.

Also recognized at the event was Red Cross volunteer Jan Holmes, who received a Leadership Award. Being presented with the award at the luncheon was made even more special, since Holmes is part of the team responsible for coordinating and planning the annual occasion.

Many others were awarded for their service with the Red Cross in the areas of Community Partners, Blood Services and Blood Drives as well as Health and Safety and Disaster Preparedness.