Violet “Vi” Ferland, 93, of Skowhegan, was honored Oct. 14 with the Jennie June volunteerism award at the GFWC (General Federation of Women’s Clubs) Maine Federation of Women’s Clubs annual Fall Conference, held at the Maple Hill Farm Inn and Convention Center in Hallowell.

A humble woman who doesn’t expect accolades and publicity for her good deeds, Ferland delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech with expressions of appreciation for others, most notably her family, according to a news release from Mary Cayford of the Skowhegan Woman’s Club.

Last spring, SWC Past President Debra Burnham and SWC President Bonnie Chamberlain secretly collaborated and initiated Ferland’s nomination by filling out the official Jennie June Award application. To fulfill the application requirements, they requested letters of recommendation from her family members, fellow club members and community leaders from the town of Skowhegan and from local organizations, clubs, groups and her church.

Those people from all walks of life had worked with Ferland on projects over the years and had witnessed her dedication and benefited from her initiative, determination, and cheerful willingness to make her community a better place in which to work and live.

Ferland’s award application has been submitted to the New England Regional Jennie June Competition. The winning recipient will be determined by a committee and made public in mid-December. Whoever wins the New England Regional Award will be entered into the GFWC National Jennie June Award, the highest national award recognizing an individual member for personal excellence.

 

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