A spectacular evening was made even more special when Iris Smith, Honorary Chair of the inaugural Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) Foundation Fundraiser Gala was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) during the evening’s events. A Paul Harris Fellow is the highest honor a Rotary Club bestows to those in our community who have volunteered their time to make a difference. When one looks at the list of organizations Iris has volunteered with one is left to wonder how she raised a family and worked outside the home as a young mother. The following list provides you with a snippet only of the work Iris has been up to in the community. She belonged to the IODE (Imperial Order of Daughters of the Empire), served as a Director at the Norfolk Golf & Country Club, volunteered at St. Josephs School, and more recently has been a volunteer for the NGH for over 20 years holding various positions.A few years back at age 80 Iris climbed the stairs at the CN tower in support of the fundraising efforts for a new CT Scanner at the NGH. She has previously been awarded outstanding volunteer certificates from Toby Barrett (previous Norfolk County MPP) and Bobbi Ann Brady, MPP Norfolk County.
The presentation at the NGH Gala was made by Past Presidents Keith Jones & Gail Catherwood, was a complete surprise to Iris and her family. Iris, who is usually the one in charge, was taken by surprise by the award, making it all the more special. Way to go RCNS.
- Jim Simpson