Two area women were awarded the Lieutenant Governor Senior Service Award May 6 at the state capitol for their continued volunteer service to their communities.Shelley Brubaker, Foristell, and Mildred Groeper, Wright City, were among 70 Missouri seniors honored.The Senior Service Award was first awarded in 2005. It honors senior citizens who gave at least 40 hours of community service each year.The lieutenant governor’s office said recipients are individuals “who epitomize the values of giving, being a good neighbor, and their commitment and service to others.”Brubaker spends a lot of time at Liberty Christian Academy. A retired teacher of 31 years for the Special School District of St. Louis County, Brubaker still enjoys working with students.“I didn’t always enjoy all the paperwork, the planning and the IEPs (individual education plans),” she said. “Now I don’t have to do that.”Brubaker volunteers three to four hours one day a week in Elizabeth Colbert’s fourth-grade classroom.Mildred Groeper is well known at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Wright City. She has continuously played the organ for 62 years.She also has led children and youth choirs in the past. She has held a variety of offices at the church.Groeper also volunteers at Agape Thrift store in Warrenton. She is in charge of the greeting card and gift bag area, which she sorts and prices.“To me, I get more out of volunteering than who I’m helping,” she said. “It’s a purpose in life. It’s great to feel that you are still needed. Agape was my first volunteer job. I met new people, new friends. I love to walk in and have everyone say good morning.”Groeper also can be seen taking part in historical presentations for the Warren County Historical Society and the Wright City Cemetery Walk.State Rep. Bryan Spencer, R-Wentzville, attended the luncheon where the women were honored.“Our district is so blessed to have such incredible individuals who have dedicated their lives to selfless service,” said Spencer. “They have all worked tirelessly to make their communities better, and we should all be sincerely thankful for the work they have done, and continue to do.”

Mildred Groeper, Wright City, was one of about 70 senior citizens who received the Lt. Gov. Senior Service Award. The awards were presented at a luncheon May 6 at the state Capitol. Pictured from left are Rep. Bryan Spencer, Groeper, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and Sen. Jeanie Riddle. 

Submitted photo