DHSS Press Release

DELAWARE'S FIRST LADY PUSHES TO EXPAND VOLUNTEERISM

Joins with cyclist riding across country asking people to go the extra mile

New Castle - Carla Markell, Delaware's First Lady, joined Shawn Anderson, a cyclist traveling the country to spread the word about community service, at an event recognizing local volunteers this afternoon. Mrs. Markell discussed her goal of expanding volunteerism through successful public - private partnerships.

"We all need to do more to help others," Mrs. Markell said. "As we proved with our 'Weekend of Service' back in January, with just a little encouragement, Delawareans are ready to roll up their sleeves and help other Delawareans."

Mrs. Markell was joined by Shawn Anderson, a cyclist who calls himself a "Battery Charger of the Human Spirit." Shawn, in an effort to inspire others to go the extra mile in their own lives, stopped in Delaware as part of his cross country "Extra Mile America" bike tour. Shawn spent much of the day hearing first hand stories from Delawareans about their efforts to make a difference.

As part of the event, Rita M. Landgraf, Secretary of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, presented the President's Lifetime Achievement Award to Joan Hicks of Brandywine Hundred who has spent more than 4,000 hours volunteering to help others. The honor is the highest level of the president's Volunteer Service Awards, created after President George H. W. Bush called on all Americans to give back to their communities.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.