2011 National Volunteer Recognition Program Announces its Volunteers of the Year for Texas

The National Volunteer Recognition program is State Farm’s way to remind associates that we appreciate and value their commitment to the communities where we live and work. This year's outstanding volunteers in Texas are April Schreurs of Austin and Patricia Bryant of Dallas.

April Schreurs works in the Austin Operations Center and is a Staff Assistant in P & C Claims - Subrogation Services and has been with State Farm for 16 years. April volunteered more than 88 hours and dedicated a good amount of time to serving on the Home for the Holidays Build Blitz Habitat Committee. April added her personal touch at the build sites serving as Team Captain and treating the volunteers to special treats.

April’s passion for volunteerism in the community is clear as she encourages others to get involved.  She says, “Just try it…give one hour or one day of your “I’m too busy” life to a cause that interests you and benefits others. Do it for nothing but the sheer joy of sharing your special skill sets (or learning new ones) with others. If you would just give of yourself, unselfishly, you will reap rewards beyond measure. And if you include a co-worker, friend or family member, you will begin a cycle of volunteering that will grow your community in more positive ways than you can imagine! Pay it forward to the next generation and leave this world, this community, this place a little bit brighter because you cared!”

April chose Williamson County Habitat for Humanity as the qualifying 501(c)3 organization to receive the $500 grant awarded on her behalf.

Patricia Bryant works in the Dallas Operations Center and is a Secretary I in Commercial Fire and has been with State Farm for five years. Patricia volunteered more than 40 hours was a consistent and committed volunteer in wide range events throughout her community. Patricia took her volunteerism to another level by demonstrating leadership when she handled onsite event logistics in her role as Team Captain.

Patricia’s passion for volunteering is clear as she states, “Having an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life is very rewarding to me and it gets me moving pretty quickly! It’s part of my everyday life.” Patricia encouraged fellow associates to volunteer as well. Her message is, “Take the time out of your busy schedule and give back to others.”

Patricia chose the Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy at B.F. Darrell in Dallas as the qualifying 501(c)3 organization to receive the $500 grant awarded on her behalf.