Jimmy Rodgers, a volunteer at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Rough River Lake, received the Take Pride Bronze Volunteer Hours of Service Award for his service to America’s public lands on Tuesday, Nov. 27. Rodgers was recognized for volunteering more than 1,200 hours of his time and talents to our national parks.
The award was presented by Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne. “It’s a pleasure to present this hard-earned award to Jimmy Rodgers, a man who has given of himself to help maintain and preserve our nation’s public parks,” said Kempthorne.
Rodger’s came to Kempthorne’s attention through Take Pride in America. Take Pride is a national partnership program aimed at increasing volunteer service on America’s public lands. Take Pride honors those who by their demonstrated commitment and example inspire others to volunteer.
Rodgers serves as a park host at the North Fork Campground at Rough River Lake in Falls of Rough, Ky. During the 2007 recreation season, Rodgers volunteered 1,203 service hours and was assisted by his wife, Debra Rodgers, who volunteered 354 hours.
Rodgers helped to make campers' visits more hospitable by assisting them with anything they needed. “Jimmy took on duties such as greeting campers, ensuring that camping regulations were followed, placing reserved signs on camp sites, and was an excellent resource for the park attendants,” said Park Ranger Mark Wilmes.
“Jimmy was self-motivated and had an excellent attitude toward the campers,” said Wilmes.
Rodgers painted the front entrance gate for North Fork, built birdhouses, and planted flowers to improve the campground’s appearance.
"This winter, Jimmy will be building wood duck boxes and blue bird boxes to be placed around the lake," said Wilmes. “We were fortunate to have him and really do appreciate all of his efforts."