Celebrating its 30th year of service to residents of Fairfax County, Volunteer Fairfax acknowledged the contributions of many area residents, businesses, families and programs at its 2005 Volunteer Service Awards ceremony. Former Washington Redskin Rick "Doc" Walker emceed the April 21 breakfast event at the McLean Hilton. Robert Egger, executive director of DC Central Kitchen, was the keynote speaker.
Volunteer Fairfax named Tyler Corey, Patrick Dexter, Jane S. Kornblut, Robert Templin, Del. James Scott (D-53), Kate Wanderer and Kohann Whitney as its 2005 Community Champions.
The following is a list of the 2005 Service Awards and their winners:
* Direct Service in the Environment, Elisabeth Freed, Bailey's Elementary School
* Direct Service in Arts and Humanities, Andrea Foley, Be-A-Friend Mentoring Program, Fairfax County Department of Family Services
* Direct Service in Human Services, Neil Schlussel, Fairfax CASA
* Direct Service in Education, Jose Rodriguez, Forestville Elementary School
* Youth Volunteer, Brad Dutton, Fairfax County Department of Family Services
* Senior Volunteer, Janet Baity, Lorton Community Library
* Family Volunteer, Tomczyk Family, Cole's Closet
* Corporate Group, West Group
* Adult Volunteer Group, Giving Circle of Hope; Reston Interfaith, FACETS and Herndon-Reston Fish
* Youth Group, South Lakes Student Government Association, South Lakes High School
* Volunteer Program, Childhelp USA Children's Center of Virginia
* Northern Virginia Technology Council, Computer Associates
* Community Leadership, Rev. Debra Peevey
* Media Award, The Connection Newspapers