ENID, OKLA. -- Area I Foster Grandparent Program volunteer Dorothy L. Walker will remember Sept. 30, 2010 as the date she achieved 26,000 hours with the program. That is equivalent of 25 years of volunteer service. Walker began her volunteer career with the program April 6, 1987.

“When I joined, I didn’t think I would be with them this long," Walker said. "I enjoy and love children and that is what keeps me with them.”

Known as “Grandma” at her volunteer site, she has been at the Northern Oklahoma Resource Center of Enid (formerly known as Enid State School), the Enid Public Schools and the Head Start Programs.

In recognition of her volunteerism, she has received a letter of appreciation from Gov. Brad Henry, a certification of appreciation from OKDHS Director Howard Hendrick, a proclamation from Mayor John Criner of Enid, proclaiming Oct. 29, 2010 as “Dorothy L. Walker Day" and a plaque from the Area I Foster Grandparent Program.

Foster Grandparents must be at least 55 years old, enjoy working with children, be in reasonably good health and able to serve a minimum of 15 hours per week. Benefits include a $2.65 per hour tax-free stipend if income eligible, paid leave and holidays, a free annual physical, transportation assistance and a free daily meal. To receive more information or to launch your volunteer career, contact the program at (580) 548-8900 or toll free at 1-800-522-1064.

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