Air Zoo, Comstock Community Center volunteer wins STAR award
He might be retired, but that doesn’t mean Fred Davis sits idle. On May 1, Davis will receive the coveted Volunteer Center of Kalamazoo STAR award for his dedication to volunteering at the Air Zoo, as well as at the Comstock Community Center, Borgess Hospital’s Fitness Center and Richland Presbyterian Church.
The STAR (Sharing Time and Resources) award is the largest volunteer recognition program in the greater Kalamazoo area. The Volunteer Center of Greater Kalamazoo and the Kalamazoo Gazette co-sponsor the event recognizing peer-nominated individuals and groups in 12 unique categories.
Since becoming an Air Zoo volunteer in 2002, Davis has volunteered more than 1,855 hours at the museum—313 of those were in 2007 alone.
“Fred is an amazing volunteer and always has a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone he comes in contact with,” says Tamra Stafford, human resources manager at the Air Zoo, “We cherish him at the Air Zoo.”
At the Comstock Community Center—who co-wrote the STAR award nomination with the
Air Zoo—Davis does whatever is needed of him, that involve “making something or putting something back together” according to the nomination form. He volunteered 780 hours of his time at the center in 2007. His accomplishments include reupholstering 100 chairs, building bookcases and minor plumbing and repairs.
At the Air Zoo, Davis volunteers on Mondays in the Kids’ Korner. One of his favorite things to do is build elaborate structures out of building blocks for—and with—the children who visit the area. He also helps the kids get in and out of the rides and generally makes their stay even more enjoyable. Twice a year, Davis also helps out with the Air Zoo’s blood drive.
“Fred loves life… [and is] happiest when he is doing something for someone else,” according to the STAR nomination submission form, “He loves to be with people, exchanging memories and stories… and one that is very special and very deserving of this STAR award.”