Volunteer of the Year: Ralph Gray

On Saturday, February 29, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad volunteers gathered to celebrate this past years accomplishments and revel in 2019 memories. The annual CVSR Volunteer Appreciation Dinner recognizes the support and efforts volunteers have made throughout the year.

Volunteers with 100 or more hours during the calendar year of 2019 are invited to the dinner. Those who have been an active volunteer for 10 years or more are also in attendance.

Our volunteers have diverse backgrounds and contribute positively to CVSR both on and off the train. Among the volunteer group is one volunteer who stands out and above and beyond for passengers and their fellow volunteers.

The volunteer of the year is nominated by his or her peers. They must be an active volunteer who is in good standing (minimum 100 volunteer hours) and exemplifies outstanding contributions to the railroad.  In determining the volunteer of the year, the Nominating Committee considers the facts, specific achievements and spirit of volunteerism demonstrated by the person nominated.

On Saturday, it was an honor to give Ralph Gray the 2019 Volunteer of the Year award.

Ralph started volunteering with CVSR in February 2010 and has accumulated 4714 total hours. Now, at 95 years young, Ralph is CVSR’s oldest volunteer. He was nominated for his positive attitude and customer service. At more than one volunteer meeting he has been quoted saying “You are never too old to volunteer.”

In addition to the Volunteer of the Year award, the volunteer with the most hours in 2019 was recognized. Ron O’Dee was recognized for having volunteered 2,383 hours. Ron also won the 2018 award for most hours with 1,794 hours in 2018. A drawing was also held for all who volunteered at least 10 shifts during THE POLAR EXPRESS™. The winner announced was Larry Kennedy.