WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GEICO has named Jayna Owen of Marana, Ariz., and Marcia Grady of Hicksville, N.Y., the recipients of the 23rd Annual GEICO Volunteer Service Awards for their commitment to supporting their communities.
Owen, a continuing unit claims examiner at GEICO's Tucson, Ariz., regional office, was recognized with the John Thorne Corporate Community Citizens (GCCC) Award for her involvement with the Big Sisters/Little Sisters organization. The organization works to provide children in need with meaningful relationships to support and encourage them. Owen joined the team of 'Big Sisters' and has been mentoring a young student. She says the reason she has continued to volunteer is the unique bond she built with her 'Little Sister' over the past seven years.
In May 2015, Owen was named Big Sister of the Year for her unwavering commitment to the program and her 'Little Sister.' "It has truly been a rewarding experience to be by her side through tough times and watch her grow over the years into such a strong young woman," Owen shared. "She is a special part of my family and we will remain in each other's lives forever."
Grady, a quality performance underwriter in GEICO's Woodbury, N.Y., regional office, was named the GEICO Volunteer of the Year for her work with the HorseAbility Center for Equine Facilitated Programs. Since 2009, Grady has volunteered her time and talents to help provide therapeutic horse riding sessions for persons with special needs and those suffering from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other emotional related issues. As an experienced volunteer, Grady also assists with new volunteer orientations and trainings.
"Working hands on with the special needs community is such a rewarding experience," shared Grady. "Witnessing the children and adults in the program progress with each session is an indescribable feeling. Whether it is holding their head up for the first time or saying their first words, it is an important milestone in their lives and I am honored to be a part of that."
The GEICO Volunteer Service Awards are presented annually to two GEICO associates who exhibit the spirit of volunteer service both individually or through the GEICO Corporate Community Citizens. The John Thorne Award recognizes the spirit of volunteerism that former GEICO associate John Thorne exemplified during his career at the company's Woodbury, N.Y., office.
