2022 Volunteer of the Year, Master G. Glenn Ames

When you volunteer, you are committed to sharing that most precious resource – your time – to improve life for those in need.

The fruits of your labors make a tangible impact, of course. Still, perhaps it is a fact through volunteering that you are willing to share your time and talent to lend a helping hand and show kindness and caring that makes the most significant difference in the lives of the individuals touched by your generosity.  

The following are a few quotes stating the importance of volunteers cannot be over nor underestimated:

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” – Martin Luther King Jr.

“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” – Oscar Wilde.

“The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves.” – Helen Keller.

And 

“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” – William Shakespeare.

And 

”At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished… it’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” – Denzel Washington.

For those reasons, the Volunteer of the Year Award was created to recognize outstanding volunteers whose unselfish and dedicated service to their sport; this district, and the overall AAU as an organization, has made a significant difference and impact as a whole, often UNPAID, I may add.

This year’s Volunteer of the Year award recipient is a long-time volunteer with a passion for teaching, molding, and inspiring athletes to be outstanding in sports and life.  

His incredible generosity of time has had a profound and lasting impact on assisting athletes who may or may not require additional assistance, physical and or mentally. His willingness to give selflessly to help others speaks volumes about his strength and character quality.  
 
He stresses fundamentals, working hard, knowing, and following the rules, and personal values such as honesty, respect, perseverance, indomitable spirit, and giving back to the community. 

His over twenty (20) years of Instructing, Refereeing, and being part of the Rules Committee for his sport. His willingness to share his time and talent by volunteering with the AAU.

He has been practicing his sport since January 2000, where he continues to train and grow, accomplishing: 
•    AAU 6th Dan
•    AAU AA Referee
•    AAU Clinic Administrator (Training Officials)
•    AAU Black Belt Dan Certifier 
•    Member of the A.A.U. Rules Committee
•    Special Needs and Inclusive Education Certified 
•    COMBAT Certified Instructor
•    COMBAT Certified Combat Sparring Instructor Level 3
•    COMBAT Certified Combat Fitness Instructor
•    COMBAT Certified P.O.I.N.T. Self-Defense Instructor Level 2
•    Volunteers in local chapters of Special Olympics, Downs Syndrome, Autism, and other groups 

He has reached one of his life goals of starting a Martial Arts program specializing in assisting athletes that require additional assistance, physical and mental called the Warrior Program in 2014.  2Persevere Martial Arts received its non-profit 501(c)3 status in January 2022. His school helps fill a need in our community.

While I know he chooses to volunteer selflessly, without the expectation of being recognized or rewarded, today; we wish to do just that. We want to let him know how much his dedication is appreciated and ensure that everyone at MD District AAU is forever grateful to you.

Words cannot adequately express the gratitude that we wish to convey. Your volunteerism is recognized, appreciated, valued, and cherished. We thank you and look forward to continuing to work with you in the future.