Long-time One Hope United supporter Danette Williamson received the “Elite Volunteer of the Year” award from her employer, Baxter Healthcare. The award included $1,000 for her favorite charity, and she chose to donate the money to One Hope United.

“Danette has been a strong advocate for our mission,” said Marilee LaMattina, development associate at One Hope United.

Williamson, who works at Baxter’s Round Lake Beach, Ill., office, first got involved with One Hope United 10 years ago when she sponsored one child at the holidays. The next year she organized her co-workers at Baxter and provided gifts for 20 children. This holiday gift drive grew each year, and in 2011 Williamson and her Baxter co-workers sponsored 115 children.

These Baxter employees supported One Hope United even further by participating in our Back-to-School campaign, collecting backpacks and school supplies for the children we serve.

Also, since 2008, Williamson has been on the Blue Ribbon Event committee, helping to plan our annual April fundraiser to help prevent child abuse.

In recognition of her outstanding volunteer service, Baxter chose Williamson for the award. She was presented with a check in May at a meeting with Baxter’s entire Medical Delivery division.

Pictured, L to R: Danette Williamson, Baxter SP Contract Analyst; Marilee LaMattina, OHU Development Associate; and Brik Eyre, Baxter general manager, US Medication Delivery.