2011 NRS Volunteer of the Year Brian Meister with Miss Illinois 2010 Whitney Thorpe-Klinksy and NRS executive director Maureen Blaha 

 On April 7, 2011, the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) hosted the 2011 Volunteer and Community Recognition event at Zed 451. The event recognized volunteers for their commitment to helping runaway, homeless and at-risk youth and their families. 

NRS volunteers and friends

The event also recognized NRS’ Volunteer of the Year Brian Meister, who (in just over a year) has logged more than 525 hours in the 1-800-RUNAWAY call center, handling more than 1,928 incoming calls from callers in need of help. On hand to present Meister with his award was Miss Illinois 2010 Whitney Thorpe-Klinsky.  Also in attendance for the event were NRS volunteers, staff, and board members. 

2011 Outstanding Youth Liner Ben Gastevich 

In addition to the recognition event, Gov. Pat Quinn proclaimed April 11, 2011, National Runaway Switchboard Volunteer Recognition Day in Illinois.

More than 150 NRS volunteers handle crisis calls in the 24-hour call center, help plan activities such as the Spirit of Youth benefit and National Runaway Prevention Month, while more than 225 Street Team members promote NRS across the country. To learn more about volunteer opportunities at NRS, visit www.1800RUNAWAY.org. 

(All photos courtesy of Amy Dondanville)