Governor's Volunteer Stars Winners Announced

Congratulations to Trey Barbour and Jay Albertia, the 2009 winners of the Governor’s Volunteer Stars Awards. The Governor’s Volunteers Stars Awards is a statewide recognition program instituted by Governor Phil Bredesen to honor and publicly recognize one youth and one adult volunteer from each county for their exemplary volunteer service to their community.

Trey Barbour has been awarded the honor as the 2009 youth winner. Year after year, Trey volunteers his time with Reaching Out to Clarksville (ROC), an inner-city children’s ministry that brings hope to the hopeless and a vision of excellence to a group of individuals who are often forgotten by society. Trey helps conduct a variety of ongoing and special programs inside three housing developments in Clarksville. He often provides assistance with Bible lessons, conducting games and sets up different events. He is always willing to lend a hand and puts in countless hours, as well as provides a wonderful example for the children to follow. The ROC program would not be possible without the support volunteers such as Trey!

Jay Albertia has been awarded the honor as the 2009 adult winner. Jay’s volunteer focus constantly and consistently addresses the needs of the underserved in our community with a specific focus on individuals with mental and physical disabilities. All of his volunteer activities center on championing for those who need a voice; not just those in Clarksville, but for those across Tennessee. Whether it is through the Montgomery County Health Council and their examination of community health needs, the Clarksville Civitan Club and Civitan International, or his work with children and adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities through Progressive Directions, Inc; Jay is a constant and dedicated advocate for those in the community who are vulnerable and underserved.

Both of these men harbor a true spirit of volunteerism and caring for others. They are an inspiration to us all and their commitment to their fellow citizens demonstrates dedication and love for their community.

State Representative Joe Pitts; youth winner, Trey Barbour; Montgomery County Mayor Carolyn Bowers and Adult winner Jay Albertia gather following the Volunteer Stars Awards ceremony in Nashville on November 16.