Special to the Sun
McKenzie Michael is a junior volunteer at Humboldt General Hospital. For the past year, she has provided service at Harmony Manor, helping with activities, visiting with residents, and just generally making sure that residents' days are brighter because she is there.
"We are always grateful to see McKenzie walk through the door," said Harmony Manor Activities Director Robin Moore. "Whether it's getting ready for a big meal, decorating for a holiday or packing up for a parade, McKenzie has been a willing helper."
It appears that staff members at the skilled nursing facility weren't the only ones to take notice of the 16-year-old Lowry High School junior. McKenzie was recently award the Soroptimist "Violet Richardson Award." The award applauds teenage girls who make their community and the world a better place through their volunteer efforts.
McKenzie was presented with a check for $150 for herself personally; she was also presented with a check for her "charity or school"; McKenzie chose Harmony Manor.
"We were so grateful," said Moore. "We not only want to congratulate McKenzie on her award, but also for being such a kind and caring young lady."
McKenzie is the daughter of Cindy and Patrick Michael of Winnemucca. The Violet Richardson Award program begins at the local Soroptimist club level. Club level winners then become eligible for larger awards, including a finalist award and a $2,500 donation to the charitable organization of the recipient's choice.
Violet Richardson was a physical education teacher who was the president of the first Soroptimist club in 1921. She believed in personal responsibility and the motto, "It's what you do that counts." She was an active volunteer in her community and a pioneer in the health and physical education field. Soroptimist established the Violet Richardson Award to honor the memory of Richardson and her dedication to volunteer action.[[In-content Ad]]
