Jan Reding Honored with Show-Me Volunteerism

Janis Reding

2007 Award Recipient

The Show-Me Volunteerism Award goes to Jan Reding, of Grain Valley, Mo, for her sincere commitment to service in the community, She truly illustrates what is expected of a genuine role model. Jan is best described by two phrases: "Salt of the earth" and " if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem".

The Show Me Volunteerism Award was created by the Missouri Community Service Commission to recognize the late Governor Mel Carnahan's commitment to service and to the citizens of the state of Missouri. This award will recognize one outstanding volunteer from Missouri who has exhibited a long-term commitment to volunteerism. This volunteer's impact should be broad based and comprehensive including both hands on experiences and leadership roles.

Award recipients become role models who share ideas and information on their past volunteer experiences, which helps to inspire other organizations and individuals to achieve their own volunteer goals.

There was a very good but large write up on the agenda for Jan, I will only pick out some of the key things as many of us know Jan.

Jan reflects the sort of person that doesn't wait for someone to ask them for help. She is one that is always encouraging others to do the best they possibly can. Leading by example, Jan is quick to praise others and is always humble about her contribution while building up others' efforts. She makes everything and everyone around her feel better about themselves.

The depth and breadth of her volunteerism is the most remarkable quality in Jan. Her passion in the community of Grain Valley is exceptional. Her volunteerism extends from her vast body of work in the area. Jan has been or is very active in many of the Grain Valley community groups and school councils.

Jan's passion and zest for life can leave one in awe. This 70-something woman has a zeal for life that is infectious . She is truly putting her actions into words that "those that can have a responsibility, an obligation, to do and help those who can't".

There is so much more to say about this person that I could fill up the whole blog with it. Jan I for one agree with everything that was written and more. I am proud to include this in the blog for others to read and praise you on your volunteerism and we should all have at least part of the zest this woman has. It is an honor to write this.

Christy Davis