BY PHILLIP PINA
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Cincinnati agencies gave thanks Monday for a group of volunteers working to improve the lives of their neighbors.
Five people and two groups were given 1998 Golden Rule Awards at a ceremony at the Cincinnati Museum Center. The awards were presented by the United Way & Community Chest, along with J.C. Penney.
"These are people who truly give above and beyond the normal volunteer efforts," said Jenny Epaves, spokeswoman for the awards. There were more than 120 nominations this year. Ms. Epaves has noticed there are more children getting involved, and corporations encouraging their workers to volunteer.
Honored were:
Mel Hays of Groesbeck, for volunteer work in the food department at Franciscan at St. John.
Louise Arnett of Villa Hills, for 20 years of service for several agencies, including the Boy Scouts, Kid's Cafe and the Aronoff Center for the Arts.
Deb Turner of Loveland, for work with Stepping Stones Center, which specializes in programs for people with disabilities.
Ilana Rachel Gildenblatt of Montgomery, a Sycamore High School junior, for running the Mitza-Thon fund-raiser at Sharon Woods. The program has raised about $6,700 for charities the past three years.
Dick Adams of North Avondale, for his volunteer work at Carthage Paideia Academy.
Students Concerned About Today and Tomorrow (SCATT) and the SCATT Parent Advisers, for efforts to help poor people in the Madisonville area and to develop young leaders.
