Local Volunteers get Presidential Recognition

Before she was a volunteer, Patricia Finch was a frequent visitor to the American Red Cross Newark Donor Center.

She donated her blood every eight weeks. And after she saw canteen volunteers assisting donors after they gave blood, Finch thought about taking on the role.

Now, Finch helps donors after they give blood at the center, helping them replenish fluids and grab a snack.

Finch is one of two Fremont residents who recently received President's Volunteer Service awards for their work at the Newark center.

Finch, 63, was honored with the President's Volunteer Service Gold Award for devoting 625 volunteer hours to the center.

Finch says that her most important job is to ensure no one faints.

Although retiring from being an accountant has been “wonderful” to Finch, she plans to continue her once-a-week commitment to the clinic.

“I believe that what comes around goes around. If you do good things, good things will happen to you.”

Sanja Thaker was issued a Bronze Award for her volunteer service. The American High School student works every Saturday and also ensures donors eat or drink after giving blood.

Despite needing just 40 community service hours for school, Thaker earned the bronze award after accumulating more than 100 hours at the clinic.

The interaction with dozens of donors has also helped Thaker practice her communication skills, her favorite part of the job.

“I wasn’t as extrovert as I am now. I feel I have a new confidence when I talk to people,” Thaker said.

Thaker’s friendly personality, like Finch’s, attracts people to be repeat donors.

Volunteer Services coordinator Tami Wethern said in a press release that Finch’s humor and easy-going demeanor attract repeat donors.

“This goes a long way in helping to bring them back to donate again and again,” Wethern said in the release.

Finch and Thaker were awarded with a pin and a certificate in a ceremony in late April.

The President Volunteer Service Award program was created to honor volunteers for their service while encouraging others to seek volunteer opportunities.

President's Volunteer Service awards are given by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation on behalf of the President.