United Way Honors Dr. Jerry and Mrs. Linda Rodenbarger with the “Dorothy M. Porter Outstanding Volunteer Award”

Jerry-Linda-Rodenbarger-2013United Way of Porter County recognized Dr. Jerry and Mrs. Linda Rodenbarger as this year’s recipient of the Dorothy M. Porter Outstanding Volunteer Award at its Campaign Celebration recently held at Strongbow Inn. This annual award is the highest form of volunteer recognition from United Way of Porter County and is bestowed upon individuals who are committed to service above self.

Dr. Jerry and Linda share a passion for making our community a better place for all,” stated Sharon A. Kish, President of United Way of Porter County. Dr. Rodenbarger has served on the UWPC Board, as well as Leadership Chair for several campaigns. Because of his efforts in 2004 and 2005, United Way of Porter County was recognized nationally for the highest number of deTocqueville givers (donors who give $10,000 or more) among comparable-sized United Way’s. Dr. Rodenbarger currently serves on United Way’s Governance Committee, helping to recruit new Board Members.

Dr. and Mrs. Rodenbarger serve as volunteers in various capacities beyond Board Leadership. Linda serves on the Regional Volunteer Center Advisory Council, and she has promoted “Reading Buddies” for the past three years at Saylor Elementary School in South Haven. Dr. Rodenbarger and Vale Park Animal Hospital have participated in every United Way Day of Caring since 2004, by closing the office for staff to participate in a volunteer project.

In addition to United Way, the Rodenbarger’s volunteer for Housing Opportunities, Valparaiso YMCA, where they were “dancing stars”, and the Valparaiso Parks Foundation. “They are so incredibly generous to other organizations, as well – donating their time and their gifts to improve lives,” added Kish. “They do it as a TEAM, and we are so privileged to have them live in our community.”

Past recipients of the Dorothy M. Porter Outstanding Volunteer Award include Barbara A. Young, Larry Klemz, Paul Gipson, Lonnie Steele, Richard Brychell, Walt Ailes, Dr. Michael Benway, Wayne Welter, Chuck Worden, William P. Hanna, James Jorgensen, Sandra Mannakee, Dr. Roy Austensen, Larry and Sue Raber, Patricia Swanson, Wally Troelsen, Dr. Ric & Kaye Frataccia and Dr. Larry McAfee.

From prenatal care to end-of-life hospice, United Way of Porter County funds a lifetime of services at Partner Agencies in the areas of Education, Health, and Financial Stability.

Volunteer leadership is at the core of United Way’s work. For more information, visit www.unitedwaypc.org.