Salvation Army honors its army of volunteers

The Salvation Army of Cape Girardeau honored several figures in the volunteering community during its annual awards banquet Tuesday evening.

Darold Dunning of Tamms, Illinois, was awarded the Volunteer Star Award for his service during the annual red-kettle collections.

Dunning sings non-stop at his post and has logged more than 50 hours at his kettle in several years of service.

"It means something to me," Dunning said of volunteer work. "You don't know how many people come up to me and say, 'Can you pray for me?'"

He said the award is nice, but what's rewarding is the service itself.

The Shining Star Award, which recognizes logistic services, went to Isle Casino Cape Girardeau for helping several times to supply food and cooking services for the Salvation Army.

The casino even supplied the food for the banquet Tuesday.

The Christmas Star Award went to Crossroads Church in Jackson for service during the Christmas season.

Family Life Minister Anita Smith, accepting the award on the church's behalf, said she challenged youth groups and Bible-study groups to raise money.

"And next year, we're going to need more kettles," she said.

The Enduring Star Award went to River Radio for helping the Salvation Army collect more than 40,000 pieces of clothing for the needy.

Administrative assistant Vanessa Ray was recognized for her work behind the scenes, and the Southeast Missouri State University Athletic Department was given the Rising Star Award for helping provide strong volunteers throughout the year.

"Our student athletes come from all over the country," said representative and recent Southeast graduate Taylor Penzien. "And for us to be able to come together and be involved in a community like Cape Girardeau is just awesome."

During the banquet, four new members were named to the Salvation Army's Advisory Board. Lt. Rodney Barker of the Cape Girardeau Police Department, C.J. Jackson of the Community Counseling Center, Ron Sloan and Billy Joe Watson of Isle Casino Cape Girardeau were appointed.

Ronnie Amick ended the ceremony by reminding attendees the Salvation Army always is looking for volunteers.

tgraef@semissourian.com

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