Vicki Baker
Whirrrrr…thwack…buzzzz…baaaang! That’s the sound of Jerry Waynant building another of the many ramps for the elderly and disabled. Hip Hip Hooray! That’s the sound of Jerry Waynant receiving recognition as 2017 Kiwanian of the Year!
Moving to Robson Ranch seven years ago, Jerry was quickly drawn to the Kiwanis Club upon learning of its mission to improve the lives of children. After joining the club, he immediately immersed himself in a variety of service projects and fundraising activities focused on helping children throughout Denton County. He was particularly drawn to the “construction team”.
When help was needed constructing a wheelchair ramp, Jerry joined the team and eventually assumed the lead role as project coordinator. Under his direction, this dedicated group of Kiwanians has built more than 30 handicap ramps. The largest project to date is a ramp for riders to more safely mount their horses at New Hope Equine Assisted Therapy.
But Jerry’s good works don’t stop there. For the past five years, he has coordinated bell ringing volunteers from the Kiwanis Club for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Christmas Campaign, an integral part of the holiday scene with millions of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors, and the homeless.
Service has always been a part of Jerry’s life. For over 20 years he has worked as a child advocate through his church, Child Abuse Prevention Coalition (CAPCO), and Partners for Protection – all focused on the prevention of child abuse through education, increased public awareness, and advocacy.
Jerry knows first-hand community service does not have just a single meaning, but many. Although the intangible benefits alone – pride, satisfaction, and accomplishment – are worthwhile reasons to serve, he shares his time and talents to strengthen our community and improve and transform the lives of children.
Perhaps the biggest benefit we get from volunteering is the satisfaction of incorporating service into our lives and making a difference in our community. Come visit the Kiwanis Club on the first and third Friday of each month at 8:30 a.m. in the Clubhouse. For more information, contact Art Masciere at [email protected].