Library: News Release
Phone: (405) 522-4283, Fax: (405) 522-3146
e-mail: Mark.Beutler@OKDHS.org
OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services recently honored a number of individuals who have significantly contributed to the state through their volunteer efforts. Oklahoma City resident Darryl Graham was among those honored.
The State Volunteer Awards Ceremony, “Volunteers -- The Keys to Success,” was held at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City, with OKDHS Director Howard Hendrick and former Oklahoma First Lady Donna Nigh presenting the awards.
After surgery for throat cancer, Graham’s family removed his belongings from his apartment, thinking he would not survive. He did survive, however, and after his release from the hospital his family dropped him off at a shelter.
He struggled to recuperate and regain his speech. Graham began volunteering his time working with other patients at the shelter, lending a hand wherever he was needed.
Today he has his own apartment and has regained his independence. He volunteers at Sunbeam, sharing his story with people throughout the community.
More than 100 people attended the ceremony, including volunteers, their family and friends, and a number of state legislators.
“Volunteers truly are the lifeblood of this state,” said Karen Jacobs, Coordinator of the OKDHS Office of Volunteerism. “These folks spend countless hours volunteering their time, working to make Oklahoma a better state. They do it not for any glory or recognition, but simply because they have a caring and generous nature. We all owe these volunteers a debt of gratitude.”
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