Library: News Release
Phone: (405) 522-3731, Fax: (405) 522-3146
e-mail: Mark.Beutler@OKDHS.org
OKLAHOMA CITY -- The state of Oklahoma saved more than $38 million dollars last year as a result of hours and service donated by volunteers. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) recognized those volunteers in a state awards ceremony held recently at the Oklahoma History Center.
The 30th Annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony, “A Symphony of Service,” honored a number of Oklahomans for their outstanding contributions. OKDHS Interim Director Preston Doerflinger presented opening remarks, and the event was hosted by OKDHS Chief Administrative Officer Sandra Harrison and Communications Coordinator Sheree Powell.
“I am very proud to be a part of some great things going on at the Oklahoma Department of Human Services,” Doerflinger said. “It is an honor to be here and I want to personally thank each of you for your time and for your service.”
Moore resident Sue Durrett was the recipient of the “Freida Mosley Award for Outstanding Service.” Durrett is the liaison between the public and OKDHS families in need. She is a member of the Cleveland County Assistance Network committee, and helps bring service providers together to help the community’s most vulnerable residents.
Each August, Durrett begins compiling a “Secret Santa” wish list for hundreds of children in Cleveland County and throughout the state. She manages the list, sends out shoppers and makes sure every child has a gift.
Durrett manages the “Secret Santa” project, in addition to overseeing the Cleveland County office of the OKDHS. She is also an adjunct professor at Rose State College.
More than 100 people attended the ceremony including volunteers, their family and friends and several state legislators.
“I have the best job at OKDHS,” said Karen Jacobs, Coordinator of the OKDHS Office of Volunteerism. “I work with and recognize individuals and organizations who have given so generously to their neighbors and to their state. They certainly do not do it for any glory or recognition, but simply because they have a gentle and caring nature. These individuals truly represent the best of what makes Oklahoma so special.”
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