As the GFWC Clearwater Community Woman's Club 2006 Volunteer of the Year, Marie Grein proves that it doesn't take years of volunteer work to make a difference in an organization. Joining CCWC in 2004 the club members soon recognized Grein's many talents and elected her club treasurer. Her main responsibilities have been to keep track of all the funds raised by the club's Daisy Award Fashion Show and Evening with the Authors.
In order to be considered for Volunteer of the Year, a member must not only be active in the club but also in the community. As a former teacher Grein has been a very busy member of the North Pinellas County Retired Educators Association, having served as past president. She is currently President-Elect of the Florida Retired Educators Association. Barbara Williams, FREA Executive Secretary states "If you need a job done and done right…. you know you can call on Marie."
The Ninety-Nines, Inc., an International Organization of Women Pilots, is another group that extols Grein's long-standing contributions. Her commitment to their Aerospace Education program has helped spark an interest in aviation for many of today's children. She is currently serving as the Southeast Section Governor and Council of Governor's Spokesperson. On the local level Grein volunteers weekly at Skycrest Elementary School in Clearwater where she introduces the students to the wonderful world of Aerospace.
Grein also served as the financial secretary at Faith United Church of Christ. Reverend Anton DeWet sums up her many attributes by saying "What one admires most of Marie, is her positive attitude and her participation in serving others."
The 2006 CCWC Volunteer of the Year Award was presented at the club's holiday luncheon at Carlouel Yatch Club on Clearwater Beach. President Urith Fitzgerald was pleased to introduce and welcome four new members to the club: Kathleen Moore, Sharon Krischer, Lois Jones and Susan Little. Fitzgerald announced the club's spring fundraiser, The 36th annual Daisy Award and Fashion show which will be held on March 22 at the Harborview Center. The proceeds of the event will benefit the PACE Center for Girls, Inc. and various club charities. More information on CCWC and their upcoming events can be found on www.clearwatercwc.org or by calling 727-394-2229.