Shepherd’s Center celebrates volunteers, anniversary

Shepherd’s Center volunteer service award recipients (from left) Ralph Graner, Susie Wiltshire and Hal Costley. (Contributed photo)

The Shepherd’s Center of Richmond, a nonprofit educational and service organization, celebrated its 40th anniversary March 14 with a lunch and recognition of the organization’s many volunteers.

Ralph Graner and Hal Costley, both past presidents of the board and chairmen of key committees, were recognized with distinguished service awards. The two men have served as drivers for older citizens who can no longer get to doctors’ appointments on their own, and have actively participated in Open University, the organization’s educational arm.

Suzanne Wiltshire received the Donald Owen and Katherine Horridge Smith National Volunteer of Excellence Award, given by the parent organization Shepherd’s Centers of America, for her outstanding service and lasting contributions as a volunteer.

President Peter Pettit also recognized Delegate Betsy Carr, who read a resolution approved by the Virginia Senate and the Virginia House of Delegates, congratulating the Shepherd’s Center on its 40th anniversary and commending it for its work to benefit older citizens in the community.

A live auction, led by Camden Whitehead and assisted by Pam Atwood, Charlie Caldwell, and Scott Finn, featured items donated by members and volunteers.  The celebration was chaired by Mimi Sadler, board member and Open University teacher, and made possible by a donation from longtime member John Clark.

To learn more about the Shepherd’s Center, visit tscor.org.

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