Hugo Organization Recognized for Volunteerism

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

Men United of Hugo was an award recipient. The recognition ceremony honored exceptional individuals and organizations that provide volunteer service whose work has had a significant impact on individuals or a community. 
 
This group primarily comprised of African-American community leaders, was established on June 27, 2004 to empower young men between ages eight through 17 to become responsible and successful. Men United has donated more than 10,000 hours of volunteer service over the past four and a half years by mentoring through organized sports, community fellowship, church activities camping and performing regular community service. They have created a school supply project that distributes supplies twice a year to Choctaw County schools.

The group is instrumental in several community awareness projects, such as the Crystal Darkness Oklahoma campaign, an initiative supported by First Lady Kim Henry that educates communities about the dangers of methamphetamine addiction. They have also mentored the children of incarcerated parents through the “Passport to the Future” program as well as providing transportation, supervision and fundraising support throughout the year.

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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