For immediate release: April 10, 2019
April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month and Douglas County Libraries (DCL) is celebrating the contributions of its volunteers and their dedication to the library district and community.
A total of 1,864 volunteers contributed more than 40,000 hours to DCL in 2018—that’s nearly $1 million in donated time. Eighty-nine of those volunteers earned a President’s Volunteer Service Award, a national award presented by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation that honors those who inspire others to engage in volunteerism.
“Our volunteers certainly share the library’s passion and commitment to this community,” said DCL’s Department Head of Volunteer Services Ali Ayres. “Their volunteerism is inspiring, and it has the power to help others realize their own potential to make a difference.”
The 89 President’s Award winners in 2018 were determined based on volunteer hours served during the 12-month period. They include four gold-level award winners, the highest award level; nine silver award winners; and 76 bronze award winners. Each award-winning volunteer will receive a letter signed by President Donald Trump and a lapel pin indicative of their award level.
In 2017, DCL was awarded certification as a Service Enterprise by Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to mobilizing volunteer service. As a Service Enterprise organization — one of only 10 in Colorado — DCL strategically leverages volunteers and their skills to make an impact. Library volunteers make a difference by:
- Tutoring students in English as a second language.
- Reading to children at Douglas County early learning centers through the Book Start program.
- Helping struggling readers in grades 1-3 build skills through the Reading Buddies program. Volunteer opportunities are available for teen buddies this summer at DCL’s Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, and Parker locations!
- Coordinating the library’s online and Second Chapter Used Bookstores.
- Assisting at library events, like the April 6 grand opening celebration at DCL’s Highlands Ranch branch — 26 volunteers manned craft and activity stations, and others assembled 1,000 pinwheels and organized craft supplies in preparation for the event.
- Shelving materials.
- And more!
For teens, volunteering at the library has the added bonus of counting toward community service requirements for high school graduation.
Volunteer opportunities for all ages can be found via VolunteerConnectDC.org by searching on Douglas County Libraries.
Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection.
