June 21, 2010

LOCAL COUPLE HONORED WITH VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD FROM EDGEWOOD CHILDREN'S CENTER

ST. LOUIS, MO (June 21, 2010) - From assisting in the classrooms to raking leaves to spending time with kids, volunteers at Edgewood Children’s Center in Webster Groves give generously of themselves and play an instrumental role in the success of the kids living on campus. The critical work that takes place on Edgewood’s campus would not be possible without the support of campus work groups and volunteers; their efforts saved Edgewood more than $40,000 in maintenance costs in 2009. Volunteers are recognized at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Reception, including a few outstanding volunteers that are honored with Circle of Caring Awards.

Two recipients of the Circle of Caring Awards were Dale & Kathy Kusmec, of Creve Coeur. The Kusmecs have been volunteers at Edgewood since 2007. Originally, Kathy started working with the girls in the residential cottages. She spent time working with the girls, bringing crafts to share, and getting Halloween costumes for all girls. Kathy later went on to mentor one of the girls, who eventually transitioned to a foster home.

Her husband Dale joined her in volunteering in 2009, and they began working together in one of the classrooms in Edgewood School. They continue to volunteer there on a regular basis.

“They do arts & crafts with the kids and are always very patient, generous and caring. They purchase all the materials, provide prizes & treats for the children and show a dedication to helping that I don’t always see with other volunteers. They truly are great role models for my kids. They show up each week with smiles on their faces. And the kids love having them in the classroom. Dale and Kathy truly deserve this recognition,” said classroom teacher John Ourth.

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About Great Circle
Established as a result of the merger of Boys & Girls Town of Missouri and Edgewood Children’s Center, Great Circle provides treatment, education, prevention and support services to children with a history of physical, sexual or emotional abuse, neglect or abandonment. Great Circle’s mission to “reshape vulnerable lives through a community of partners, teachers and leaders, giving children and families the confidence to create bright futures” is fulfilled through campuses in St. Louis, Columbia, Springfield and St. James, Missouri. As one of the children’s non-for-profit services in Missouri, the organization annually serves approximately 7,800 children and family members and employs more than 700 staff members. For more information please visit www.great-circle.org.