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Green Valley's Volunteer Spirit

S.A.V. Rita Lawrence S.A.V. Rita Lawrence

Green Valley, well known for its senior population and volunteerism is where you will find one of the most decorated volunteers of the Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers. On April 11th, Rita Lawrence was presented a new “Hours of Service Award” for her 22,000 hours of service with the SAV. Rita joined the Green Valley Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers in 1988 and currently ranks second for the total number of hours worked by any SAV volunteer. She actually has 22,500 hours and averages working approximately 130 hours a month.

SAV Commander Bob Hoeckelberg says Rita plays a very important role with the Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers; holding the title of Director of Community Services, she is a “Jack of all Trades,” overseeing Neighborhood Watch, Business Identification, and Citizen Care Program of the organization. These were some of the programs recognized by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2004 when the SAV was awarded the “Outstanding Achievement in Law Enforcement Volunteer Program.” This was the first year this award has been presented by the I.A.C.P.!

Rita, formerly an RN, and her husband Fred are both retired. They moved to Arizona in 1987 from Michigan when Fred was assigned to become the Arizona District Director of U.S. Customs. It didn’t take them long to get signed up with the SAV. Fred is also very active with the Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers. The Lawrence’s have three adult children.

Rita can’t name her favorite SAV duty, because she “likes it all.” She serves as a Car Commander, Officer of the Day, and is a member of the Emergency Response Team. She also serves as a front desk volunteer for the Sheriff’s Department Green Valley District station, where she always greets folks with her warm and caring smile. Rita might not know what her favorite is, but we in the Green Valley area consider her one of “our favorites.” Thank you Rita for your service and dedication to this community.

 
Last Updated 12/27/2005 8:19 AM