LAKEPORT, Calif. – On Sunday, Sept. 15, a group of more than 70 Lakeport Senior Activity Center volunteers were treated to an afternoon of fun, games, recognition and an ice cream social at their third annual Volunteer Appreciation Day.

The volunteers were able to relax and have fun while the work was being done by the staff members with a little help from family, friends, and yes, a few volunteers.

Director Jonathan Crooks presented the prestigious, distinguished and coveted “Awesomeness Award” to a number of deserving volunteers.

“Each and every volunteer contributes so much to not only our seniors and senior center, but to the community as well,” he said.

The nutrition program has provided more than 40,000 meals so far this year and demand continues to rise while grants and funding get cut.

The volunteers make up the difference through fundraising efforts like the Meals On Wheels Thrift Store.

This year the Lakeport Senior Center also has been able to give $1,000 each to Relay for Life and Operation Tango Mike, which could not have been done without the many hours of volunteer time.

In 2012, from January through December, the total number of volunteer hours was 34,257 and so far in 2013, the total is 19,460.

The whole of Lake County is appreciative of all volunteers in all aspects around the lake, according to Crooks.