The Salvation Army names volunteer of the year

Priscilla Beeman of North Chili has been named Volunteer of the Year for The Salvation Army, Empire State Division. The award was presented by The Empire State's Divisional Commander, Lt. Col. Norman E. Wood at an Awards Reception in Cooperstown.

Beeman was chosen as an exemplary volunteer within The Salvation Army. She has been a positive driving force, has reached out to many deserving students with scholarships, has sent younger children to camp at Long Point and has provided emergency assistance."

A mother of four, grandmother of five, Beeman decided to volunteer because, "I raised my family in this wonderful community. It was time that I gave back. I really enjoy doing it." She has been in the Churchville/Chili Service Unit since 1999. During the holidays in 1998, she received a letter asking if she would like to volunteer and before she knew it, she was Kettle Coordinator. "We try to help out as many families as we can," Beeman said. "We have to divide the funds as much as possible." Some families need assistance with utility, telephone and water bills, while others need clothes or furniture. The Salvation Army Thrift Store on Ridge Road in Rochester often helps to stretch those dollars, says Beeman.

"We try to make people aware that The Salvation Army is here for emergency relief. We want to help people get back on their feet or through a hard time. We will help all we can, but we don't have the funds for long-term assistance," Beeman explained.

As chairperson of the Churchville/Chili Service Unit, Beeman has also been involved in providing scholarships to graduating seniors from the Churchville/Chili School district.

Money for such projects is raised mainly through the Red Kettle campaign, Beeman said, adding that, "we can always use more bellringers during the Red Kettle season."

Beeman says that she couldn't do what she does for The Army without her husband of 47 years, Richard. "He is such as great help, especially when I bring home the kettles to count the donations."

Besides her efforts with The Salvation Army, Beeman is also very active in the Chili Historical Society. Her current project with them is developing a Memory Garden. Beeman was among six outstanding volunteers honored from the 48 counties of Upstate New York. The Hilton Service Unit/Dave Goodrich, chairman, was also recognized.