Varner named Student Volunteer of the Year

Ann Varner, a recent graduate of Limestone and the Lieutenant of Public Safety at the college, was named the Student Volunteer of the Year by SAFE Homes - Rape Crisis Coalition for 2004. Varner, who earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree in December, was recognized for her superior achievement, commitment, and support to victims of domestic and sexual assault. Ann Varner, a recent graduate of Limestone and the Lieutenant of Public Safety at the college, was named the Student Volunteer of the Year by SAFE Homes - Rape Crisis Coalition for 2004. Varner, who earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree in December, was recognized for her superior achievement, commitment, and support to victims of domestic and sexual assault.

While working fulltime and taking classes at the college, Varner volunteered over 400 hours during 2004 as a part of her internship at the Spartanburg shelter. She transported victims, provided childcare, helped with office work, shopped for groceries, acclimated new shelter residents, and assisted with therapy groups and assessments.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better intern,” praised Karen Martin-Wilkins, Volunteer Coordinator for SAFE Homes. “She always went above and beyond the call of duty. She was more like a full-time employee than a volunteer.”

Varner was singled out from several other interns from other area colleges including Spartanburg Methodist, Wofford, USC-Upstate, and Greenville Tech. A Limestone student has won the award two out of the last three years.

“To choose a Limestone student for this award says a lot for our (social work) program,” Varner said. SAFE Homes Rape Crisis does so much for the community. I was overwhelmed with the services that (they) offer to victims of rape and sexual assault.”

SAFE Homes Rape Crisis Caolition provides assistance to domestic violence and sexual assault victims in Spartanburg, Cherokee and Union Counties. Their services include a 24-hour crisis, emergency shelter, counseling, employment and financial assistance, and community education.