The hard-working young people were recognized this month when they received the Governor's Service and  Volunteer Award. 

Big Horn Basin Adolescent Programs director, Edna Peterson, attended the Governors Service and Volunteer luncheon held at the Holiday Inn in Cody Jan. 19, to receive the award.  "The Governor's award is given in five different categories;  this was the youth," she explained.

I'm so tickled with the kids getting it," she said.  "They have worked so hard, this is their third year, and it was so nice that they were recognized."

Steve Staab, board president, nominated the youths for the honor.

The "Raking Lawns for Charity," has grown over the years.  The first year, the group raked 18 yards; 22 yards the second year, and this year, they cleared off 33 yards.  Their earnings have raised from $600  the first year, to $1200 in 1999.

In early December, the rakers and their group home "parents" make a long-awaited trip to Billings for a shopping spree.  Each of the young people is responsible for buying  a special present and stocking stuffers for one special child.    Much thought goes into the purchases.

According to Angie Tharp and Kas Nyberg, "mothers" at the group homes, the program arose when Tharp and Peterson were trying to come up with some way the group home  children could give back to the community.  They wanted the kids to realize that the holiday season is not just for receiving, but for doing for others; putting joy in other people's lives instead of focusing on self," Tharp said.

Along with the work and the fun-trip, the teenagers learn  valuable lessons about working cooperatively with others, sharing and giving back.  One young man, summing up this year's efforts, said simply, "It puts something in you that stays forever."

Peterson said a pizza party for the young people was held Wednesday night.  "And they learned that their efforts were recognized at the state level."

Peterson said she intends to send any pictures and photos concerning the award, to the young people who no longer live in Basin. (Reprinted with permission from Basin Republican Rustler)

Notes and Letters

Thank you for the fruit basket and the caroling. It was wonderful that you do this for people like me.   -- Ellen

I surely can't think of words to thank you enough for kind thoughts and consideration.  You have such good ideas to keep the boys excited and at same time they learn new and good things -- as making pies, and not just for themselves, but joy of sharing. I didn't uncover the plate till next morning!  What a feast!  Bet some boys had never had a Thanksgiving like that!   -- Jeanette

I just do appreciate your kindness and help to me.   I think I'd be in a nursing home without all your wonderful help.  -- Jeanette