Former lieutenant governors voice support for Volunteer Kansas

Eight former Kansas lieutenant governors met Wednesday with Lt. Governor Mark Parkinson to show their support of Volunteer Kansas, the new initiative that pairs Kansans wanting to volunteer with opportunities in their communities.

“Whether it is providing support to the homeless, reading to children in our schools, or helping to feed the hungry, thousands of volunteering opportunities exist in counties big and small. Connecting Kansans with those opportunities is the first step – the second, is to get out and give back,” Parkinson explained.

A searchable list of service organizations throughout the state is featured on the lieutenant governor’s web site: http://www.volunteerkansas.ks.gov.

Joining Lt. Governor Parkinson were former Kansas lieutenant governors Tom Docking (1983-1987), Paul Dugan (1979-1983), Sheila Frahm (1995-1996), Jim Francisco (1991-1995), John Moore (2003-2007), Dave Owen (1973-1975), Gary Sherrer (1996-2003) and Shelby Smith (1975-1979).  

“I am pleased to see an initiative on volunteerism,” said former Lt. Governor Owen. “There is only so much that government can do and dedicated volunteers are a powerful force for good in our communities. I have been a volunteer for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for many years and have seen first hand what an impact that organization has on young student athletes.”

“Ken and I just completed a weekend training session with Red Cross leaders,” said former Lt. Governor Frahm. “With the disasters experienced in 2007 by Colby, Northwest Kansas, the State of Kansas and the whole world - we are all learning the importance of being involved and prepared.”

Former Lt. Governor Dugan recounted ways in which he gives his time. “I’ve been a member of the Board of the Kansas Food Bank for 10 years, and am a Board member of the Guadalupe Clinic in Wichita which provides free medical services for the poor, and I volunteer on Wednesdays as a cook at the Lord’s Diner,” said Dugan.

Along with discussing Volunteer Kansas, the former lieutenant governors shared stories about their time in office and reflected on their years in state government.

“One of the great things about being lieutenant governor is having the chance to shine some light on important things happening around the state. The men and women who have held this office before me have left a strong legacy of service, and I think Volunteer Kansas is a great way for all Kansans to give back,” said Parkinson.

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