I’m proud of these employees,” said Mable Stephens, Customer Service Supervisor, “they both knocked the‘t’ off “can’t”.  I am thankful for their efforts in attaining these accomplishments.”

Member Services Representative Barbara Choice, Laurens Electric’s 2005 Volunteer of the Year, founded a non-profit organization to bring stability to the families in her community.

The process of selecting each year’s winners begins with nominations submitted by fellow employees and supervisors. After a nomination period, a committee consisting of LEC senior staff discusses and selects a winner.

The Employee of the Year must meet the following criteria: Performing beyond the call of duty, exemplifying the co-op’s core values by putting forth extra effort, and making outstanding contributions which help Laurens Electric fulfill its mission to meet or exceed the expectations of its members, and commitment to community.

“I am very honored to be recognized as the Employee of the Year.  I want to thank the numerous members that took the time to send thank you notes and letters on my behalf,” said Lyles. “I am glad I’m able to help people through Laurens Electric Cooperative.  I feel fortunate to be an employee of such a great company.” 

Nominees for Volunteer of the Year are similarly judged - not by the number of organizations with which they volunteer, but by the dedication and time donated to the organization(s). “Laurens Electric Cooperative sponsors the Volunteer of the Year award to encourage employees to take an active role in the betterment of our local communities. The criterion for selection takes into account any non work-related volunteer efforts throughout the year,” says Human Resources Director Chad Armstrong. The judging committee also takes into account how the community has been improved by the individual’s efforts, and the degree to which he or she displays Laurens Electric’s core values within the community.

Paula Lyles, Laurens Electric’s 2005 Employee of the Year, works as a Member Services Representative.

“It gives me joy to be able to extend a helping hand to the people of our community,” said Choice, who received the Volunteer of the Year Award in part because of her devotion to the outreach ministry she founded.  Reaching Hearts, Touching Souls, located at 1209 South Harper St. on the east side of Laurens, is a non-profit organization that has  sponsored such events as workshops promoting personal financial skills, entrepreneurship and HIV/AIDS safety and prevention. The group also aids the elderly and others in need with programs such as Winter Warmth, which provides donated clothes.

“We’re proud of all of the nominees for their selfless donation of time and caring, and proud that so many of Laurens Electric’s employees are so compassionate and involved with our community,” says Armstrong.

Volunteer of Year honored for outreach efforts through ministry