The information was provided by the Peter R. Marsh Foundation.
BATTLE GROUND — Ken and Peggy Kirkman, volunteers at the North County Community Food Bank and School Readiness Program, were awarded the Silent Servant Award by the Peter R. Marsh Foundation. They were presented with an award on Nov. 7 during a Battle Ground City Council meeting.
The Kirkmans have volunteered at the food bank since 2009 and with the North County School Readiness Program for the past 11 years. Elizabeth Cerveny, executive director of the North County Community Food Bank, said of the Kirkmans: “They quietly donate funds, food, hygiene and cleaning supplies, school supplies, their time, energy and passion to those living in poverty.”
Each week since 2009, the Kirkmans have volunteered at the food bank. Ken is a van driver who picks up fresh food from area businesses and Peggy works various shifts at the food bank and serves in a leadership role helping others learn all areas of volunteering. Combined, it is estimated that they donate 42 service hours each month at the food bank.
Additionally, the Kirkmans played in integral part in creating the North County School Readiness Program, which is coordinated solely by volunteers. The program provides new backpacks and school supplies, free immunizations, used clothing and other local resources to students attending local schools who qualify for free/reduced lunch. They work tirelessly throughout the year preparing for the distribution of these items.
“Ken and Peggy are key to this event year round,” Cerveny said. “They quietly provide much needed funding without expectation or desire of thanks or even recognition. They both work tirelessly throughout the year to see these programs through start to finish. They give from their hearts in every way, every day. It’s who they are, and it’s deeply ingrained into their moral fiber.”
The Peter R. Marsh was pleased to honor the distinguished service of Ken and Peggy Kirkman for their extensive service to others. People who voluntarily and privately serve others in need are truly some of the most valuable citizens in area communities. The Silent Servant Award was established to honor individuals who voluntarily and selflessly serve others and do so without compensation. The Kirkmans are two such individuals.
About the Peter R. Marsh Foundation
The Peter R. Marsh Foundation is a nonprofit organization that is committed to honoring those who serve others who live in Oregon and Washington. The Silent Servant Award is intended to promote private caring and compassionate activity and is presented to individuals who continually provide service to those in need and do so voluntarily or without compensation. Visit www.prmfoundation.org for more information.
