United Way, VIC honor volunteers at lunch

Local volunteers were recognized for their countless hours of service at the United Way and Volunteer Intergenerational Center's 19th annual volunteer recognition luncheon on Thursday.

Winners were chosen from 24 nominations for four awards.

The youth award winner was Sarah Goeke for her work with the Downtown Kids Association. Through the association, Goeke has worked to redevelop downtown Cape Girardeau. She coordinated movie night on the Common Pleas Courthouse grounds and a trivia night to finance the event. She has involved other youths to help the program grow and flourish.

Dr. Janet Ruopp received the adult award for her work with Habitat for Humanity. Ruopp has serve as treasurer and sits on the executive and development committees for Habitat for Humanity.

The senior award recipient was Adrianna Amelunke for her work with the Southeast Hospice Program. Amelunke volunteers many hours and provides companionship, respite and bereavement services to the terminally ill and their families.

The SEMO Chapter American Red Cross's disaster action volunteer team received the group recognition for its work with disaster victims. It has responded both locally and nationally on a number of relief operations, including tornadoes and hurricanes, within the past year.

United Way assistant director Marla Mills presented Regions Bank with the first ever "Inspire by Example" award. The award was created to recognize a business in the community that encourages employee volunteerism. Employees of Regions Bank have been volunteering at the Cape Girardeau Senior Center.

"All of the individuals and groups who were nominated really did exceptional work and outstanding service to the local community," Mills said.