"You have earned our respect and admiration; you've given us joy and friendship, perfect happiness and harmony. We are grateful for your talents, faithfulness and the passion you've demonstrated in support of the IES mission," commented Volunteer Coordinator Mrs. Susan Eberth during the Institute's 2005 Volunteer Recognition Ceremony. A record number of volunteers and volunteer hours were contributed in 2005.
Held on April 27th, the event was celebrated by the bursting of balloons. In colors of deep red, yellow, pink, and purple representing respect, admiration, joy, friendship, happiness, harmony, and gratitude, the Institute recognized the essential work performed by its volunteers. The symbolic gesture also represented the explosion of our record-breaking volunteer numbers; in 2005 200 volunteers accumulated a total of 9,150 service hours.
The evening included a catered dinner, an update on IES Programs, a scientific lecture on experimental studies at Hubbard Brook by IES President and Director Dr. Gene E. Likens, and an awards ceremony. Volunteer supervisors presented certificates, with special service awards given to volunteers who accumulated 100 or more hours.
Several Lifetime Volunteers were present at the ceremony and were recognized with floral bouquets. IES volunteers achieve lifetime status with 15+ years of active service or with 1,000+ service hours. Lifetime Volunteers are permanent members of the IES family.
At a private service, Mrs. Lillian Eisberg was recognized as a new Lifetime Volunteer for accumulating 1,019 service hours from 1993 to 2005. Lillian and her husband AL volunteer in the Gifford Garden, where they perform spring garden clean-up and planting preparation for the perennial displays. Lillian was recognized with an engraved pewter picture frame.
Volunteers work in the following areas: Communications, Continuing Education, Display Gardens, Ecology Field Programs, Field Facilities, Greenhouse, Maintenance, Research, Special Events, and Visitor Services.
Our volunteers have broken all records in the number of volunteers and the amount of service hours they've contributed. We continue to enjoy their burst of energy and explosion of talent – they are deeply appreciated.
Volunteer Coordinator, Mrs. Susan Eberth
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