During the recent Countdown to Cap & Gown celebration, Champions For Learning unveiled a new volunteer recognition award, the Karen Harman Excellence in Volunteering Award.
Karen Harman was a long-time volunteer at Champions For Learning. For over 10 years she dedicated her time to helping students and teachers alike. “Her passion was volunteering in education, and you would never see a brighter smile than Karen’s when she was volunteering with us” said Susan McManus, CEO of Champions For Learning.
Inspired by his late wife, her husband Ray Harman chose to honor her memory through a legacy gift that will forever fund volunteer recognition. The first recipients of this award included volunteers Dottie and John Whipple. Over the last six years, Dottie and John have served in 126 volunteer roles at Champions For Learning. They have also dedicated their time to mentoring 10 students. The time and talent Dottie and John give to Champions For Learning is invaluable.
“Being a mentor and being involved with Champions For Learning has been a wonderful experience for John and me,” said Dottie. “Working with mentees and helping them navigate through high school and beyond has brought us so much joy and inspiration. John and I are so proud and honored to be the first recipients of this award.”
Five students were also recognized for the time they have donated to Champions For Learning success. They each completed over 200 hours of service. Liset H., Grace S., Yanet H., Prisca P., and Daniel C. each received the $500 Karen Harman Excellence in Volunteering Award scholarship.
Congratulations to our inaugural recipients and we look forward to awarding this meaningful recognition for years to come.