Nominate a volunteer

To the editor:

If you are like me, when you think back on your life you remember a special person who truly made a difference, either in your life or someone else’s. He or she may have been a parent, teacher, mentor, pastor, coach or local volunteer. Whoever they may be, they have demonstrated a spirit of service and selflessness and have been influential in shaping our great state and the communities we live in.

That is why I am pleased to announce the 2010 First Lady’s Volunteer of the Year Awards, and I invite all Alaskans to nominate a person who has made a significant impact through their volunteer service.

Categories for this award include Lifetime Achievement, Military/Veteran, Elder, Youth, Family, Faith-based, and Business, as well as a category for AmeriCorps members.

Nominations are due by Monday. More information and nomination forms are available on the Governor’s website at gov.alaska.gov/parnell/governors-office/volunteer-awards. Forms are also available at the governor’s offices in Anchorage, Juneau and Fairbanks.

I hope you will consider nominating a deserving friend, co-worker, neighbor or family member. Take advantage of this opportunity to thank someone for their tireless service to Alaska. I look forward to reading about these great Alaskans and honoring their hard work and dedication.

Sandy Parnell

First Lady of Alaska