Hometown Hero Mark Wooten works as a volunteer at Teen Response in Madisonville. (Enquirer photo/GARY LANDERS)

Wooten was impressed with Teen Response and was determined to help. It turned out to be a dual benefit. His volunteering helped distract him from his physical battles. He and his wife, Emma, began helping with phones, fund-raisers and outings. They still do.

Wooten, 45, of Dillonvale, likes seeing the results. When he noticed piles of paperwork needing done, he offered to take charge as long as he could work when the pain was not so bad. He also does computer work.

"I try to put in five hours a week, but sometimes it's hard to meet my goal because of extreme fatigue, muscle pain and weakness," said Wooten. "When I can't get into the office, John sends work to my home.

"This organization does such a good job helping youths. If I can help them help somebody else, it's a good way to spend my time."

Keuffer called Wooten "my one trusted ally and a great source of help and support. Mark knows the business side of the program better than anyone. He gets so exhausted helping with things he's wiped out for a couple of days. But he never complains."

Wooten looks forward to the good days, when he can be at Teen Response. That's also when he's able to patrol with fellow members of Citizens on Patrol in Madisonville.

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Do you know a Hometown Hero? E-mail Janet Wetzel at jjwetzel@siscom.net or fax to 513-755-4150.