RSVP’s January Volunteer of the Month was born and raised in Eaton, Colorado.  After completing her high school studies, Carrie attended the University of Colorado and graduated with a degree in nursing.

Carrie later married, but was widowed at the young age of 33.  Carrie persevered and she raised her three daughters and worked as a nurse for 40 years.

Carrie helps with the Grocery Shopping Program.  She also volunteers with the America Reads Program at University School and at the Heiman Elementary School Library helping 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade students.  Carrie also volunteers at Hospice helping with computer work and filing.  She also has a pet therapy dog, Precious; they visit residents at area nursing homes.  When Carrie has a few spare moments, she also enjoys reading and gardening, and belongs to a garden club. 

Congratulations to Carrie McNamara the RSVP January 2012 Volunteer of the Month!

Karen was born in eastern South Dakota.  In 1943, Karen attended Southern State Normal and then was a teacher at a country school during World War II.  Following the war, she came to Colorado to complete her degree in Elementary Education at Colorado State College of Education (CSCE), now the University of Northern Colorado.

While attending CSCE, Karen met and later married Hank Markus.  While their three daughters were in school, Karen taught kindergarten in the Greeley-Evans School District.

The “family hobby” was traveling and the Markus family got acquainted with all 50 states.  In later years, Karen and Hank traveled the world.  Karen still enjoys traveling, reading, and gardening.

Most of all, Karen “enjoys doing things for others - especially through RSVP.”  Karen has been part of the Grocery Shopping Program for over 20 years.  As Karen has noted:  “What you do for others comes back in many ways.”

Congratulations to Karen Markus the RSVP February 2012 Volunteer of the Month!