Shelter volunteer receives Governor's Service Award

BY Shelby Young GAZETTE-MAIL METRO PUTNAM July 30, 2008

Animal shelter supporter Karen Haynes was recently honored with the Governor's Service Award by the West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service.

Since 1995, as part of the Faces of Leadership annual state volunteerism conference, the award is a tribute to outstanding individuals, organizations and businesses.

After Haynes' name was submitted as one of 75 nominees, it was selected by a panel of volunteer judges who chose the 10 recipients on the basis of achievement, community needs, continuing involvement, innovation and impact of service.

Categories include youth, young adults, adults, seniors, families, organizations and businesses, with Haynes receiving her award in the adult category.

She was one of 10 out of 75 nominees selected for 2008.

West Virginia First Lady Gayle Manchin presented Haynes with a crystal trophy during a banquet at the Charleston Civic Center.

Haynes has worked continually as a volunteer for the Putnam Animal Relief Center since 1985 and is currently raising money for a larger, more visible home for the animals.

Plans for the new shelter include up to 75 dog runs, 65 cat cages and an on-site veterinarian and groomer.

In addition to her work with the animal shelter, Haynes has dedicated much of her time to coordinating and volunteering events such as the Princess Tea Party, an event for young girls in the Putnam County area which brings together multiple generations of women, including more than 600 youngsters.

She was also active in creating and sustaining Kids Fun Day at the Park, an event offering outdoor activities for youth free of charge and in its second year.

Haynes also coordinates the annual West Virginia University/Marshall University tailgate in Putnam County, which brings more than 600 community members together for a day of family-friendly activities.

She also is involved with Putnam County Civil War Days, the Convention and Visitors Bureau's annual Haunted Barn, Putnam County Parks and Recreation's Yuletide in the Park, the Junior Achievement program, local and county science and social studies fairs and area high school portfolio expositions.

Animal shelter supporter Karen Haynes was recently honored with the Governor's Service Award by the West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service.