Terry Hooks was selected as one of 10 nationwide semifinalists for the Alliance for Community Trees 2012 Volunteer of the Year Award, the city of Kent’s Green Kent Partnership announced last week.
The award highlights inspirational volunteers in action who have contributed to urban forestry by improving community trees and the neighborhoods where they live.
The winner was Dotti Clune, a 20-plus-year volunteer with Michigan-based Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.
Nearly 2,000 volunteers donated just under 6,000 hours to the Green Kent Partnership, a 20-year environmental restoration plan, last year. The partnership brings together the city, conservation organization Forterra and the residents.
Hooks has been volunteering for the program since early 2011, when she became a trained steward. She has been leading work parties of other volunteers regularly at Morrill Meadows Park and has proven herself a real leader.
“It’s in her DNA,” said Jeff Watling, parks director. “Terry is a superstar at REI, where she works, and she loves the outdoors and giving back to her community. I can’t imagine anyone more deserving of this recognition. We can’t wait to present her certificate at the next Green Kent event.”
“Volunteers are the heart of local urban forestry efforts, providing the resources and energy that make tree planting and care possible,” said Carrie Gallagher, ACTrees executive director. “Ms. Hooks models the ideals of stewardship, giving, professionalism and leadership.”
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