DHS Recognizes State Volunteers Stilwell resident Mary Winkler receives service award

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) recently honored a number of groups and individuals for their volunteerism at a statewide ceremony held at the Oklahoma History Center.

The 2015 Volunteer/Partner Recognition Awards is an annual event that spotlights Oklahomans who volunteer their time and effort in making positive changes in the lives of others.

DHS Director Ed Lake presented the awards and commended each individual for helping bridge the gap between public and private agencies and people in need. 

“It is an honor and a privilege to be here, and to thank each of you for your service,” Lake said.  “You really do make a world of difference in our state, and to those whose lives you touch with your selfless work.  Thank you for all you do.”

Receiving a State Award in the Adult Category was Stilwell resident Mary Winkler.  She volunteers in the “Foster Grandparent” program and works in the kindergarten class at the Stilwell Elementary School.

Literacy is her primary focus as she helps children with special needs.  Winkler has volunteered for nearly 20 years, and still found time to raise a family of seven children.  Those who work with her say Winkler is firm but gentle and has a giving heart. 

Karen Jacobs, Administrator of the DHS Office of Community and Faith Engagement, said volunteers are the lifeblood of the state.

“I have the best job in the world,” Jacobs said.  “I witness first-hand the work these individuals and organizations do and how they impact the lives of so many Oklahomans.  On a daily basis they selflessly give of themselves, not asking anything in return.  This award ceremony is simply our way of shining the spotlight on them for a moment and saying ‘thank you’ for a job well done.”

Recent figures show that more than 735,000 Oklahoma volunteers provided 85.4 million hours of service, equating to $1.9 billion of service contributed.  Oklahoma ranks 28th among the 50 states, with 26.6 percent of residents volunteering their time and service.

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Cutline: Stilwell resident Mary Winkler receives a State Volunteer Award from DHS Director Ed Lake.