Gavin Cooley
Gavin Cooley and Holly Dieken have been chosen as Hamilton County’s winners of the 2016 Governor’s Volunteer Stars Awards. They will be honored along with winners from other Tennessee Counties on Feb. 12 at the Ninth Annual Governor’s Volunteer Stars Awards Program in Franklin.
According to state generated statistics, 1.3 million Tennessee volunteers give more than 149 million hours of service, contributing the equivalent of $3.4 billion to Tennessee’s economy.
Youth Winner: Gavin Cooley, The Samaritan Center
For over three years, nine-year-old Gavin Cooley has been volunteering at The Samaritan Center. During school breaks you won’t find Gavin sitting at home playing video games, but helping out at the center in any way he can. His grandmother brings him to the center, even on her off days, and he works from the time he comes in until the time he leaves.
Through Gavin’s volunteering, The Samaritan Center is able to generate more money, which in return goes back out into the community to help with items such as school supplies, toys for Christmas, and even monthly food boxes. He outworks the adults in his area. Gavin’s excitement, initiative, and compassion make him an exemplary volunteer and a valued member of the staff.
He makes sure to let them know when his next break at school is, and that he will be back to help. He truly has a volunteer’s heart.
Adult Winner: Holly Dieken, Center for Mindful Living
Holly Dieken began volunteering with Center for Mindful Living about two years ago and has been a gift ever since. She serves the Center in many capacities and is always willing to help. Ms. Dieken is not only involved in the day-to-day necessities, but she has been very involved in our outreach events.
Last year when the center had to relocate, she decided to help raise money for the move and organized a moving sale that netted $1,000.
If anything needs to be fixed around the center, you name it, Ms. Dieken can fix it. A natural handy person, she has fixed the Center’s dishwasher, hung curtains, and assorted other odd jobs. She contributes her culinary skills to cater meals for board meetings and special workshops.
The Center is a small organization with two part-time employees; Ms. Dieken’s contribution has meant the difference between success and failure.
Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger said, “These generous citizens embody the spirit of giving, selflessly helping fulfill needs that would otherwise go unmet. I am grateful they live in our community.”
Holly Dieken