Walt Dukes Named 2009 Volunteer of the Year!

At United Way of the CSRA’s Annual Meeting on Tuesday, February 23, Mr. Russ Dedrickson, Plant Manager, Southern Nuclear Operating Company, named Mr. Walt Dukes, Regional Vice President, Georgia Power, as the recipient of the Alvin W. Vogtle Volunteer of the Year Award for 2009.  

This is the twenty-sixth year that the award has been presented to an individual who best represents the spirit of service to the community.  This award is significant in terms of the life of Alvin Vogtle, former Chairman of the Board for Southern Nuclear Operating Company.  Mr. Vogtle is remembered not only as a leader with great foresight, but also for his heroism in World War II.  His life became the basis for the book and movie, The Great Escape, which tells of his repeated attempts to escape his captors.

Mr. Dukes was nominated by Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and United Way, but he is well known throughout the community.  When it comes to community development and civic involvement, Walt Dukes does it all.  He serves on numerous statewide and community committees and can always be counted on to provide outstanding leadership.

Under his leadership as Chairman of the Board in 2008, the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce  strengthened their regional image and influence and brought forth innovative programs and services to the membership.  Mr. Dukes continues to serve the chamber in various capacities.
 
He also has served with United Way of the CSRA for the past five years in various positions and proved to be a volunteer who stands behind his beliefs and works hard to accomplish the task at hand.  While serving as Campaign Chair, he led in the success of raising over $4.3 million dollars in the community during a very challenging time.

He has served on The Salvation Army board for eight years and helped the Kroc Center campaign raise over $33 million.  One of the most vocal supporters of the Kroc Center in the concept and application stage, he used his relationships and contacts in the community and with the city to help sell the project, remove obstacles, and raise funds.  As a result of his help, along with many others, the $100 million Kroc Center recently broke ground.  This Center will serve thousands of those in need for years to come while giving a major boost to Augusta.

With roots in Burke County and residence in Richmond County, Mr. Dukes keeps giving back to his community with  monetary donations, talents and time.  He is not afraid to roll-up his sleeves and do whatever it takes to get the job done.  His genuine interest in other people is one of many reasons why his reputation as one of the strongest leaders in the community has stood the test of time. 

Mr. Dedrickson also presented Mr. Dukes with a check for $2,000 from Southern Nuclear Operating Company to be donated to his charity of choice. 

Also nominated for this prestigious award were:  Diane Cone (nominated by The Berry Center), Helen Hendee (nominated by The Family Y), and Ethel Tomlin (nominated by The Senior Citizens Council).