OKDHS Recognizes State Volunteers - Durant, OK Residents Truman and Bonita Smith

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.”

Durant, Oklahoma, residents Truman and Bonita Smith have amassed countless hours volunteering for the Salvation Army. They have implemented food drives at various businesses, picked up and delivered that food, and kept track of the donations received.

The Smiths have been instrumental in getting the Christmas food basket drive organized by sorting, boxing, and delivering the baskets to those in need. They also coordinated a toy drive for OKDHS foster children, and continuously look for ways to enhance Bryan county residents.

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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Chief Administrative Officer Sandra Harrison (left) presents a Volunteer Award to Bonita and Truman Smith