At an appreciation luncheon on Thursday, 20 volunteers were recognized for their service to local veterans.
“My success is only because of everyone in this room. The things that are so good are only because of you. I appreciate you. The county appreciates you,” said David West, Veteran Service Officer as he handed out awards, certificates from U.S. Congressman Kevin Kiley and County Challenge Coins to a roomful of volunteers who gathered for tacos and sharing stories.
Arianne Duperron and Elsie Durgeon received a congressional certificate of appreciation and Jacob Kelsh and Betty Parsons received awards from the Nevada County Consolidated Veterans Council for their community work.
Volunteers help drive veterans to doctor visits, teach guitar lessons, work on special projects such as a roadside sign program, organize community events, write grants, help with office work, provide therapy and more.
During the luncheon, volunteers shared emotional testimony of what it means to give back. Many volunteers are veterans themselves or come from veteran families and volunteer to honor the memory of lost loved ones. Others shared how volunteering has provided an opportunity to get to know and appreciate Nevada County’s veteran population and their service to the country.
The following volunteers and staff members were recognized for their good work. Some volunteers are not listed: • Jeff Tynan, Ashley Fox, Karin Robinson, Steve Nicola, Rick Rice, Diana Runnels, Elsie Durgin, John Thomson, Scott Summers, Norris Burkes, Elizabeth “Liz” Bell, Gary Tanaka, Dena Hall, Sierra Family Therapy, Victor Gallicchio, Jacob Kelsh, Arianne Duperron, Tyler Simmons, Ina Dekker, Meri Fisher, Lori Lane and Laurie Ackerman.
If you’d like to give back to our local veterans, Nevada County Veterans Service Office is seeking volunteers and vendors for the Second Annual Veteran’s Health and Wellness Fair on July 23. To learn more, visit News Flash • Nevada County Seeks Volunteers and Vendors for