Seven hands cut out of patterns, laminated in glass and surrounded by a wooden frame made up the School Award for Service handed to Kent State volunteers last night at Hattie Larlham’s Volunteer Recognition Dinner.

Kent State was recognized as an outstanding school for volunteerism and leadership by the non-profit organization. Hattie Larlham provides care to children and adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

The students who accepted the award have all volunteered at Kent State, including a foreign exchange student from Russia.

“The Center for Student Involvement is such a great organization,” said Polina Yermoshkina, a junior American studies major. “Thanks to them, I am able to volunteer at many different places, and I really credit them for organizing the volunteer effort.”

Yermoshkina began doing volunteer work in her home country of Russia, and said she was glad the center helped her find volunteer opportunities in Kent, as well.

Volunteers with the Center for Student Involvement traveled to the Hattie Larlham organization numerous times throughout the year. This year, Kent State volunteers participated in events to help people with mental retardation and developmental disabilities – from taking them shopping to making crafts with them.

“Kent State is such a big help at Hattie Larlham,” volunteer coordinator Jenna Allen said. “Kent won this award because of all the time and effort these volunteers put forth.”

The Center for Student Involvement holds Super-Service Saturdays once a month for students to become involved in volunteer efforts.

“I’ve had some great experiences volunteering at Kent and can’t wait for more,” Yermoshkina said.

To become a volunteer, contact the Center for Student Involvement at (330) 672-2480.

Contact social services reporter Caroline Laska at [email protected].