Volunteers who support the American Cancer Society were feted Thursday night for their selfless donations of time and talents to those in need.

The event was held at Robinson Ranch and 11 individuals and groups were given special honors. 2009 Woman of the Year Nancy Coulter (pictured at right with her daughter, Heather Warrick and Volunteer of the Year, Diana Sevanian) who serves on several ACS committees as well as the Leadership Council and Los Angeles Regional Council, was singled out for special recognition.

Involved with the ACS for several years, she has extended her involvement into several outreach events, getting the word out and using every opportunity as a Mission Delivery moment for the ACS’s programs and services.

Lauded as Volunteer of the Year was Diana Sevanian, dubbed a “One woman informational resource” for her support of the ACS and regular health-related articles published in various media throughout the valley. She supports Relay for Life, serves on the Leadership Council, the Gala committee, Daffodil Days committee and works in the office, answering phones and helping distribute program information.

Receiving the award was an overwhelming experience, according to an e-mail she sent to KHTS.

“Writers usually have plenty of words to spare, but I found myself near-speechless at hearing I was the ACS Volunteer of the Year. This recognition means so much to me and I am very grateful to those who made it possible. In a ‘cosmic sense’ though, I also share it with many contributive people in our valley who donate time and energy to this remarkable non-profit.

“Combining my love for writing with my passion for the American Cancer Society and the SCV community is a continuous gift to my own soul. I love being able to help promote the ACS’s mission while at the same time bringing education and hope to those in need.

“Cancer has affected my own family in some very painful and tragic ways. Knowing what we have experienced, and never wanting another person to hear those three hideous words, “You have cancer,” fuels me in those late night hours when I’m writing about the ACS.

“I have long said that cancer has given me my biggest heartaches and biggest heroes. To be in the company of so many great people through the ACS, those who fight the fight while fighting for everyone else’s survival, that is definitely high on my list of meaningful and inspiring relationships in this life.”

KHTS AM1220 also received an award; station co-owners Jeri and Carl Goldman were recognized for their sponsorship of ACS events and opportunities for mission delivery through appearances on talk shows and public service announcements.

Other awards given Thursday included:

Shining Star Award given to survivor Agnes Russell, who works with the Bosom Buddies breast cancer support group, facilitates health fairs and works at the Providence Holy Cross Cancer Education Center twice a month.

Youth Spirit Award given to Tim Peak, who has organized two Eagle Scout projects benefiting cancer awareness; a tobacco “cemetery” with tombstones featuring celebrities who have died from tobacco-related illnesses and a car used in Relay for Life and community fairs to promote the ACS’s Road to Recovery program.

Mission Delivery Award given to Sue Peak, R.D., who serves on the Leadership Council and the LA Region Youth Constituent group, facilitating outreach for several Santa Clarita area schools and educating clients about nutrition and preventive care.

The Patient Courage Award was presented posthumously to Darrellyn McCormick, who met with newly-diagnosed patients and shared her story of survivorship to inspire others on their cancer journey.

Vantage Oncology received the Community Partnership Award for providing patient education and speakers for outreach events as well as staff working with the ACS on Relay for Life and Daffodil Days.

Jen Minard has been a critical player in the Santa Clarita Valley’s Relay for Life for the last six years and was responsible for inspiring participants to break the half-million dollar mark for the last two years. She is leading Relay efforts this year and visits other Relay events in surrounding towns and cities to get ideas.

Rosalie Goldenberg received the Quest for the Best Award for her enthusiasm and efficiency in helping wherever she is needed in the ACS office. She was instrumental in starting the first I Can Cope groups in Southern California, training nurses, social workers and facilitators in Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange and San Diego counties.

The Office Volunteer Of The Year was given to Brenda Robinson, a cancer survivor who knows how important a friendly, understanding and comforting greeting can be to those who come in to learn about ACS programs.

For more information or to get involved with American Cancer Society, visit the office at 25020 W. Avenue Stanford, Suite 170 or call 298-0886.