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Local volunteer wins Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Volunteer Award

Norma Funai of Sisters awarded regional distinction for her work with the Deschutes Land Trust

Norma Funai takes folks on a tour of Rimrock Ranch. Photo: JW Visuals.

The 2009 Governor’s Awards were recently announced and a local Central Oregon volunteer has won regional recognition. Norma Funai was regional winner in the Lifetime Achievement Award category which recognizes volunteers who have given more than ten years of service to the community. Norma was nominated for her work with the Deschutes Land Trust, a regional land conservation organization based in Bend.

“Norma has been at the heart of the Deschutes Land Trust for nearly a dozen years. She started our popular natural history tour program and has since led more than 150 tours of Land Trust protected properties helping so many people learn about Central Oregon, its land and wildlife. The Governor’s Volunteer Awards are a small way we can recognize her tremendous contribution to our organization and to this community” said Deschutes Land Trust executive director Brad Chalfant.

“I'm very proud to have been chosen for this award and grateful to the Deschutes Land Trust for the opportunity to share my love of the outdoors with the public. These many years of exploring nature with people have been the most enjoyable of my life” said Norma from her Sisters home. Norma will be honored at an official Governor’s Volunteer Award luncheon in Salem on October 2. Only regional and statewide winners receive such distinction.

The 2009 Governor's Volunteer Awards recognize individuals and organizations for their dedication, commitment and determination in promoting and supporting volunteerism throughout Oregon. The Outstanding Lifetime Achievement category recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution in the State of Oregon throughout their lifetime (ten years or more).

The Deschutes Land Trust conserves land for wildlife, scenic views, and local communities. Since 1995, the Land Trust has protected more than 7,200 acres in Central Oregon. For more on information on Deschutes Land Trust and how to visit a Preserve, contact us at (541) 330-0017 or visit www.deschuteslandtrust.org.

Deschutes Land Trust
Lands in trust protected forever

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