Volunteer Recognition: Friday, May 7, 2010
Think for a moment. What is one of the most important contributions that someone can make while they are on the planet? I think everyone would agree that the contribution is to somehow make a positive difference in the world. Barring a small number of exceptions, few things are more rewarding. This evening, I am honored to celebrate and recognize you, the generous volunteers who have committed yourselves to making a difference on Cape Cod and indeed the world.
As volunteers, Independence House and our clients always needed you, but perhaps now more than before because of the challenging economic times, the difference you make is even more important. If you doubt this, just know that we (you) helped over 6,000 victims of domestic and sexualized violence at Independence House last fiscal year. Far fewer victims and individuals in our community would have received services on our hotlines in the community, in court, at the hospital or in our offices across the Cape.
I am impressed and gratified on a regular basis by your serious commitment and professionalism. So many of you have served so long with grace and purpose, and for our newer volunteers, I look forward to a long association, and know that you are already serving in the same tradition.
I know many of your individual stories of kindness above and beyond the call of duty that each and everyone of you have performed over the years. At times the stark reality of violence and the stories that you are privy to, are overwhelming, but I also know without a doubt that you have been a pillar of support for the victims you have interacted with. I am grateful that you have chosen Independence House and this work to commit yourselves to. Caring for and about others is a large part of creating and maintaining a violence free culture and community.
Volunteer work and you as volunteers are unique; everyday you show personal commitment and dedication; you share your free time with others to fill an unmet need and provide an important service while also finding time to do other work; you represent the best of our community and bring important learning to us from the community’s perspective; you are diverse in your skills, talents and knowledge and that makes our organization and ultimately our work better, and last but not least you expand the quantity and quality of service to the community! We appreciate you!
……so from the deepest place in my heart, I thank you on behalf of survivors/victims and all of the staff at Independence House.
Lysetta Hurge-Putnam, MSW, LICSW
Executive Director
