A small group gathered in the lobby of the Samaritan Center wearing masks and standing in the corners of the room. The reason they gathered was for the Hulsey awards. This simple gathering was a far cry from the annual appreciation event with table favors, music and a video presentation. However, the intimate setting and comradery made the event even more special.
Each year the Samaritan Center recognizes outstanding employees and volunteers with the Hulsey award. This award is to honor the legacy and vision of Mr. & Mrs. Hulsey who founded the Samaritan Center and who worked throughout their lifetime to provide help and hope to the community. Staff and volunteers who receive this special award exhibit a certain set of characteristics which align with the mission of the Center and the legacy of service the Hulseys left behind.
Some of the characteristics of a Hulsey award recipient include; creating a positive work environment, going the extra mile, assisting with work when needed and displaying exceptional dependability. This year the Hulsey award was presented to two staff members and one volunteer.
Our first recipient, Sharon Smith-Hensley, has been the social services director at the Samaritan Center since 2008. Her devotion and dedication to reaching the community is seen through the numerous social service and community assistance programs she leads. Sharon is a dedicated member of the Center’s team who motivates us to work hard to fulfill our mission.
Our next recipient, Stephanie Claiborne, has been with us since 2016 and has been the lead cashier since 2019. Stephanie works daily on the floor and at the cash register to ensure our customers are cared for and loved. Stephanie’s positive attitude and encouraging voice are a reminder of the ways we are called to serve our community.
Our last recipient, Joanna DeJong has been volunteering with the Center since 2009. Joanna’s consistent, unpaid labor and dedication to the Samaritan Center has been invaluable. When COVID-19 created staffing challenges Joanna stepped up to process items and help prepare donations to go into the store.
These recipients embody the characteristics and legacy of the Hulsey award as well as the mission of the Samaritan Center. Honoring their humble dedication among co-workers, friends and fellow volunteers was fitting for a group of people who have willingly poured out their life when no one was watching.
