Local Resident Recognized for Volunteerism

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL--- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services Office of Volunteerism recently recognized an Antlers resident at the State Volunteer Awards Ceremony in Oklahoma City at the Langston University-Oklahoma City campus. 

Receiving the Donna Nigh Award for Public Service was Myrtle (Ashford) Edmond. The award is named for the former first lady and recognizes an individual whose volunteer work in government, business or media has dramatically improved the quality of life for their fellow Oklahomans. The recognition ceremony honored exceptional individuals and organizations that provide volunteer service whose work has had a significant impact on individuals or a community. 
 
Edmond began her volunteer journey in Rattan when she met a young mother who was struggling to provide for her three children. Concerned the children may not be able to experience a joyful Christmas, Edmond asked if she could purchase gifts for the children. The young mother cried and asked how she could repay Edmond’s kindness. Edmond explained her philosophy of “passing it on.” The young woman agreed and as her family circumstances improved, she continued to help other families as Edmond had done for her.

Edmond, continuing her efforts to “pass it on,” has been an active member of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program for 14 years, has spent many hours in the Rattan Schools helping children learn to read and acting as a school counselor, eventually becoming the only licensed professional counselor in Pushmataha County for many years.

Locally, she devotes time to making telephone calls to shut-ins or the hearing impaired, provides transportation to church, the grocery store and for those with medical appointments.

She is a Life Member of the local Historical Society, serving as its president from 1991 until 2008; was president of the hospital auxiliary where she assisted patients through the patient advocate program; represented the Pushmataha County Retired Educators; and recently traveled to Washington, D.C. with local educators to be recognized for their work with the Rattan sixth grade boys research projects.

She is a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, the Pushmataha County Chamber of Commerce and has been recognized by the Oklahoma City Public Schools System and the McLeod Correctional Center.

Gov. Brad Henry’s Cabinet Secretary for Human Services, OKDHS Director Howard H. Hendrick, presented the awards and congratulated the honorees.

The theme, Volunteers Create Magic, was displayed throughout the room as each recipient was awarded a trophy and a commendation from the state legislature.  A reception followed the ceremony.

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