Since 1988, Drum Corps International and the Friends of DCI have been honoring faithful volunteers of the drum corps activity. Accumulating thousands of unpaid hours of hard work, these individuals help make every season possible for more than 5,000 young performers each year. This Monday marked the beginning of National Volunteer Week. During this special week of appreciation for people who give their time and effort to help organizations across the country, Drum Corps International announces the recipients of the 2008 Volunteer of the Year Awards. Chosen from a panelist of current Friends of DCI members, the volunteer nominations were submitted by drum corps staff members and directors. 2008 Volunteers of the Year:
  • Thelma Fung (Blue Knights)
  • Marie Limpel (Pioneer)
  • Greg Lowe (Carolina Crown)
These three individuals will be honored at the 2008 DCI World Championships in Bloomington, Ind. this August. Learn more about the Friends of DCI. Meet the 2008 Volunteers of the Year: Thelma Fung, Blue Knights Working with the Blue Knights for more than 10 years, Fung has served in a variety of roles. From booster club president, to working bingo games and creating funding programs, to serving as treasurer on the board of directors, she has truly been "knighted" a top volunteer by her staff. As the development director for the corps, Fung manages programs that provide more than $100,000 in corporate and foundation support. "Thelma has been tireless in her efforts, and as a result, she has been responsible for thousands of dollars in support," said Blue Knights director, Mark Arnold. "She serves as an inspiration to the entire drum corps community." Greg Lowe, Carolina Crown Lowe has been a part of Carolina Crown since the organization's first steps onto the field. For more than 19 years he has served in several volunteer roles with the corps including tour and housing coordinator. Currently Lowe is the coordinator of the organization's ticketing service and a member of the board of directors. "It's hard to believe that Greg has a day job," said Carolina Crown staff member, Joe Rosemond. "There is absolutely no doubt that Carolina Crown benefits tremendously from his contributions." Marie Limpel, Pioneer For 14 years, Limpel has volunteered for Pioneer managing multiple tasks for the corps. A member of the corps' board of directors, she also serves as a cook ordering supplies and planning meal menus for corps members as part of their 10-week tour. Prior to her retirement, Limpel held a position in the administration office of the local public school district working with the city's youth on a daily basis. "Marie never shies away from leadership roles," said Pioneer director, Roman Blenski. "Her willingness to go the extra mile for a person is well known throughout the corps."