DHS Recognizes State Volunteers - Lincoln County group receives award

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Every year, citizens across Oklahoma donate countless hours to help the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) fulfill its mission.  Those volunteer hours help fill the gap and account for upwards of $37 million in annual savings to the state.

Recently the DHS held its annual Volunteer/Partner Recognition Awards Ceremony in Oklahoma City, recognizing those volunteers and agency partners who contributed the most during the past year.

“The individuals gathered in this room today know what giving is all about,” said DHS Director Ed Lake.  “Whether it’s spearheading a Christmas toy drive, mentoring students or delivering meals to seniors, these volunteers have donated so much of their time and themselves to helping others.  We are truly grateful for their service.”

The Chandler, Oklahoma, group known as the “Lincoln County Bakers” received an award for their work baking birthday cakes for children in DHS foster care.  They are given the birth date and gender of each child, then use their own imagination and creative skills to bake a cake.  The result is a one-of-a-kind treat for children who might otherwise not have a birthday cake.

“These individuals have such an impact on the lives of others,” said Karen Jacobs, Administrator of the DHS Office of Community and Faith Engagement.  “They share so much of themselves and their time working to make the world a better place.  It is not glory they seek, or fame or recognition, but merely the satisfaction of helping others.  This is our way of simply saying ‘thank you.’”

Oklahoma had nearly 740,000 volunteers in 2012, donating a combined 102-million hours of service.  As a result the state ranks in the top 20 nationally with nearly 30 percent of all residents participating in some type of volunteer activity.

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