Volunteer earns recognition from Points of Light Foundation

The Area Wide United Way was recently notified that one of the winners of its annual Volunteer Recognition Awards was also recognized nationally by the Points of Light Foundation as an outstanding volunteer.

Clara Delaney, 18, of Cape Girardeau, awarded the United Way's Youth Volunteer of the Year award last April, was identified as the National Volunteer of the Day for Monday, Jan. 20, by the Points of Light Foundation.

Delaney was nominated to receive her United Way award by the Mississippi Valley Therapeutic Horsemanship organization, directors of which noted her dedicated service to their program since its inception in February 2001.

Delaney has attended every MVTH session, which provides disabled individuals the opportunity to ride horses. While volunteering her assistance, she has taken the time to get to know each of the riders well enough to assess their progress.

"Delaney has made a positive difference in the lives of at least five children who have come to know and depend on her. She is highly appreciated because it is so important for the riders to have a stable volunteer who works with them week after week," according to Jana Rodgers, founder of the MVTH program.

Delaney often makes suggestions within the program and is quick to help with training new volunteers. "Though she has faced many challenges in her own life, such as requiring special education services and helping her single mother deal with cancer, she cares more about others than herself and is willing to give of herself, expecting nothing in return," Rodgers said.

The Daily Points of Light Award is given by the Points of Light Foundation and Volunteer Center National Network, in partnership with the Knights of Columbus and the Corporation for National Service. It is designed to honor individuals and organizations who have made a commitment to connect Americans through service to help meet critical needs in their communities and in the nation.

The United Way promotes volunteerism, emphasizing the importance of the many gifts each person has to give back to their community. The Volunteer Intergenerational Center was established to coordinate volunteer activities in this area.

For those interested in other volunteer opportunities, call 800-VOLUNTEER provided by the Points of Light Foundation and Volunteer Center National Network. Daily Points of Light Award nomination forms are available by calling (202) 729-8184 or e-mailing awards@pointsoflight.org.

To view Delaney's story on the Web, as well as those of other volunteers, go to www.pointsoflight.org. Click on the current National Volunteer of the Day, then Past Winners.