Estes wins volunteer award at national JA gathering
Published 5:00 am Monday, May 2, 2005
The Junior Auxiliary on Saturday honored Shirley Estes, ofBrookhaven, as Volunteer of the Year for one of the organization’ssix regions.
Estes received the Betty Robbins Volunteer of the Year Award,named for a former national president, for Region Five during theNational Association of Junior Auxiliaries convention inBiloxi.
“I’m honored and pleased our local JA membership nominated me,”Estes said.
Estes was one of six winners representing NAJA’s six regions,including 103 chapters in eight states and 13,542 members. RegionFive includes 13 chapters in Mississippi and Louisiana.
The nomination letter praised Estes as a nurturer of her family,her garden and her community. Estes served JA from 1974-80 andcontinues to stay involved in helping JA members andactivities.
“However, Shirley’s accomplishments in our community are thereason that our chapter now nominates her for this award,” theletter said.
The nomination cited Estes’ eight years on the King’s DaughterMedical Center Board of Directors, including two years aschairwoman, and on the statewide board for the King’s DaughtersOrganization. During her time on the board, KDMC underwent majorrenovations and actively recruited new physicians.
“Shirley’s efforts on the boards have certainly been acontributing factor to the strong medical community that exists inBrookhaven,” the nomination said.
Estes was also praised for her community appearance effortsthrough the chamber of commerce, Keep Brookhaven Beautiful and theMaster Gardeners. The nomination also included information on hertime as Ward Four alderwoman and her years of service at FirstUnited Methodist Church.
Estes cited the Golden Rule in talking about her efforts.
“The Lord has taught me to do unto others as I would have themdo unto me,” Estes said.
Estes, now a life member of JA, was appreciative of therecognition that her efforts brought to the local chapter.
“It is an organization I feel strongly about,” she said.
Estes said it is a rewarding experience to be a part of JA’sefforts to help others. She said experiences in JA go beyondmembers’ six-year commitment to the organization.
“JA is a wonderful training ground for volunteering that onewill do later in life,” Estes said. “It encourages us to be ofservice to others, especially those who are in need andparticularly children.”