Dawson County Senior Center Meals on Wheels drivers Jim and Carol Houthens were recognized as Volunteer of the Year at an annual volunteer recognition reception at the Margie Weaver Senior Center in Dawsonville last week.

“The Margie Weaver Senior Center is very blessed to have the quality of volunteers to assist our senior clients,” said Dawson County Senior Services Director Dawn Pruett on Nov. 2. “Our volunteers treat our clients as family. The love, fellowship, guidance and friendship they show to them is exceptional.”

Volunteers recognized include Jim and Carol Houtchens, Judy Proctor, Helen Anderson, Judy Brandon, Sandra Davenport, Joe Gaines, Carole Kinzie, Betty Losh, Clara Rowell, Barbara Wallace and Lynn Campbell.

The Houtchens deliver meals to homebound clients in the county.

“We cannot thank you enough for this recognition,” said Carol Houtchens. “We truly feel blessed for you giving us the opportunity and enabling us to give back to the community. Through the years, we’ve made wonderful friends and look forward to seeing them each week as they have become a huge part of our lives.”

Dawson County Manager David Headley, who spoke at the reception, thanked the volunteers.

“One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time,” he said. “Everyone in this room has made a difference in someone’s life. And, you, as a volunteer and because of your selfless kindness, make a change the world can be grateful for.”

In addition to hearing from Headley, guests were able to meet with Commissioners Sharon Fausett, Jimmy Hamby and Julie Hughes Nix and enjoy food and fellowship following the ceremony.