Six volunteers received 2006 Spirit Awards at the Community Care Clinic of Rowan County’s 10th annual volunteer recognition dinner last month.

Executive Director Connie Antosek said the Spirit Awards are given to volunteers who go above and beyond the call of duty. “It’s for people who have made a difference in the clinic,” she said.

Recipients were Dr. David Smith, assistant medical director; Hank Coffield, nursing department; Dr. Henry Duncan, dentist; Lorie Swaringen; dental assistant; Julia Tate; intake volunteer; and Margaret Antosek, pharmacist. Madge Fulton and Anne Serwan were also honored for 10 years of volunteer service.

More than 100 volunteers and support staff were recognized at the dinner for their support and dedication to the Community Care Clinic for the past 10 years.

The theme for the evening was “A Decade of Caring.”

During the past decade of operation, the clinic has provided services to more than 26,500 patients and dispensed more than 47,000 prescription medications.

Ninety-six volunteers were honored at the Oct. 26 dinner for providing 4,760 hours of service to the clinic.

Board member Ronnie Smith gave the welcome speech and invocation at the dinner. The Guardian Angel program was presented by Smith and Reid Leonard.

Antosek gave the appreciation speech, during which goody bags were presented to all of the volunteers with each item having a special significance to the clinic.

Held at the Holiday Inn, the volunteer recognition dinner was underwritten by Innes Street Drug Company. Door prizes were donated by The Duck Blind Gallery, Sam’s Car Wash, Wal-Mart and Benco Dental.

The mission of the Community Care Clinic is to provide free medical care, dental care and prescription medications to the low-income and uninsured residents of Rowan County using volunteer professionals and skilled support staff.

These services could not have been rendered if not for the caring people in the community who have dedicated time, talents and financial support.