Vittoria Whitsett certainly isn’t the only one who delivers food and clothing to those in need. What sets her apart from other good Samaritans is that she doesn’t have a car, so she makes her rounds on foot.
Whitsett, one of three recipients of the Denver Public Library’s 2015 Juanita Gray Community Service Award, was recognized at an afternoon reception that also paid tribute to Shirley Amore, who is retiring after eight years as Denver’s city librarian. Amore was the ninth person, and first woman, to serve in that capacity.
Much of Whitsett’s community service is done through Zion Baptist Church, where she volunteers in the food bank and clothing distribution center that is part of the church’s Family Resource Center.
Whitsett devotes her Mondays to the church’s job ministry, helping clients connect with jobs that are suitable for them. She also volunteers in the audio-visual ministry; assists at the Hiawatha Davis Jr. Luncheon for Seniors; volunteers at the Black Arts Festival and participates in activities at Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center.
“Ms. Whitsett volunteers above and beyond the call of duty,” noted selection committee chair Zelda DeBoyes. “She cares about people, particularly the elderly, the disabled and the downtrodden. Why? Because she has been there herself.”
Kenneth Del Ray Grimes and Dineen Marshall also received awards.
Grimes, who for 20 years has been program director for Colorado State University Extension’s Denver 4-H, is considered an international leader in educational practices and methodologies. He also is a writer, playwright, director, actor and storyteller, and works to promote equal representation in the performing, visual, musical and cultural arts through involvement with the Colorado Black Arts Movement.
Marshall, the Youth Award recipient, attends Smoky Hill High School and is described as “an excellent peacemaker with great people skills and a sparkling personality.” She is on the Academic Honor Roll, participates in the school’s chamber orchestra and symphonic choir, and is activities director for Smoky Hill’s anti-bullying campaign.
In addition, she is active in various youth ministries at Shorter AME Church and serves as president of the church’s Children, Youth and Young Adult Choir.
The awards reception was held at the Ford-Warren Branch Library and sponsored by Epsilon Nu Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Garden Party Catering. The Purnell Steen Trio provided music; TaRhonda Thomas of 9News was mistress of ceremonies.
Joanne Davidson: 303-809-1314, jdavidson@ denverpost.com or twitter.com/joannedavidson
