2011 Volunteer of the Year

SPONSOR: Brayton Purcell, LLP

2011 Award Recipients: Jim and Ann Patterson, 10,000 Degrees

Jim and Ann have a long history of helping low-income youth in West Marin on the path to college and it is specifically for their work in West Marin that this award is given.

As principal of West Marin Elementary School in Pt. Reyes and Assistant Superintendent of the Shoreline Unified School District Jim became acquainted with 10,000 Degrees. Through the College4kids program Jim and Ann partnered with 10,000 Degrees taking students on college tours. They realized that many students aspired to earn a college degree but were concerned about the expense and had no one at home to guide them. Jim and Ann committed to doing everything they could to close the gap for these students.

Jim and Ann do whatever is needed to get their students to college. They welcome them into their homes, feed them, help them with financial aid applications, college essays and driving them to resources. They establish a relationship with the parents making it clear that they are part of a support team. “Neither of my parents attended college so they could not help me with everything that had to be done. Without Jim, I would not have taken as many risks as I did with choosing a college. I knew I did not have any money to pay for a private college but Jim always said he believed in me so I took the risk, and not knowing what to expect. I now attend Dominican University.”

Their work in West Marin is dedicated to the very low income and those that will be the first in their families to attend college. About half of the students are English language learners or in homes where English is not spoken.

Many students work to support their families and care for younger siblings.

Jim and Ann’s leadership and involvement has changed the culture in West Marin regarding attending college.

Their positive impact has strengthened the organizations relationship with the West Marin community. This award of $5,000 is designated to continuing their impact in West Marin.

The Volunteer of the Year Award and $5,000 for the recipient’s nonprofit is presented to an individual (OTHER THAN A BOARD MEMBER) who has provided exemplary volunteer service to a Marin nonprofit organization.

Download 2011 Heart of Marin Brochure and Form

1. Using examples from the past 12 months please describe how the nominee has shown dedication and commitment to the organization or its constituents.

2. Illustrate how the nominee made a significant, positive impact on the organization or the community it serves during the past 12 months.

3. Briefly state the organization’s mission, services offered, length of time and type of volunteer service the nominee has provided for the organization.