Governor's Points of Light Award Received by Graduate
Doane graduate Annette McClure received the Governor's Points of Light award for the month of June.
McClure is a first-year student in the Master's program at Doane College at Grand Island. She earned her BA in human relations, and is working toward a master's degree in counseling. McClure received her award for her volunteer role with the Rural Improvement for Schooling and Employment (RISE) program. RISE is an AmeriCorps program that was created by Nebraska State Probation to increase opportunities for probationers in rural communities. Evidence-based practices have shown the success of an individual's probation is enhanced when further attention is given to the areas of education and employment. The program is available to both juvenile and adult probationers in order to increase community safety and reduce recidivism for all.
McClure was nominated for the Points of Light Award for her early success in having 12 probationers graduate from the program. Her success includes her work to partner with Central Community College Adult Education program to enable probationers to complete the GED program, her support to local schools in assisting students to meet requirements to complete high school using the RISE program or after school programs, and for inviting and organizing others in the community to volunteer their time for the RISE program.
According to the Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission Web site, the Governor's Points of Light Awards are presented quarterly by the Governor at a special ceremony at the State Capitol in recognition of volunteers who give their time, talent and energy to help Nebraskans build stronger communities. Each quarter, the Nebraska governor presents a Points of Light award to an adult, a child, and a group.
The Governor's Points of Light award is a presidential legacy from George H. W. Bush. The Points of Light Foundation is an independent, non-partisan, nonprofit organization founded to encourage and empower the spirit of service. The Points of Light movement led to states and other organization giving such awards. The Points of Light Award is given to Americans of all ages, who, through volunteer service and civic engagement, are making valuable contribution to their communities.