Volunteer of the Month (February 2009)

American Express Recognizes Oak Ridge Elementary Volunteer

When Monica Frye found out about Oak Ridge Elementary’s community involvement project, she jumped in with both feet. Little did she know the “Coins from Colts” program would raise $15,000 – mostly in change and dollar bills. She didn’t let it sway her, and every day Frye came to the school to collect and sort the donations.

As part of the project, the class that raised the most money earned front-row seats at a future private Kellie Pickler concert at Oak Ridge Elementary. Frye tracked each classroom’s donations on a spreadsheet so students could follow along. Undoubtedly, the school’s treasurer was relieved to have Frye’s unwavering commitment.

Through “Coins from Colts,” the school raised more than $15,000 for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. With Frye’s hard work, the students also learned how a little change can go a long way.

According to Judith Jones, the teacher who nominated Frye, this volunteer could be counted on to do anything – from collecting the change in a little wagon to creating flyers and letters to advertise the fundraiser.

As Volunteer of the Month, Frye received a gift basket and $25 gift card from American Express, which has generously partnered with Guilford County Schools to support the volunteer recognition program.

Click here to nominate a person for Volunteer of the Month.

Guilford County Schools is the third largest school district in North Carolina serving more than 71,000 students at 120 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are college/work ready.

Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship.  For more information, visit the district’s Web site at www.gcsnc.com.